La Baraja de la Muerte 1916
Dive into the chilling drama *La Baraja de la Muerte (1916)*, Chile's first national feature film that shook Santiago society to its core.
Director: Salvador Giambastiani
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is La Baraja de la Muerte (1916) about?
This silent-era crime drama retells the true story of Corina Rojas, a young woman from wealthy Santiago society who was convicted of murdering her husband in 1916. As Chile's first national feature film, it dramatizes her trial and execution, exposing the moral hypocrisy of the era while crafting a gripping tale of betrayal and justice.
Who directed La Baraja de la Muerte?
Salvador Giambastiani directed *La Baraja de la Muerte*, marking his contribution to Chile's early cinema landscape.
Who stars in La Baraja de la Muerte?
The film stars Palmira Fernández as Corina Rojas, Mario Carrasco, and Alfredo Torricelli in pivotal roles that anchor its dramatic narrative.
Is La Baraja de la Muerte (1916) worth watching?
While *La Baraja de la Muerte* is a silent-era film with limited surviving footage, its historical significance as Chile's first feature film and its gripping true-crime story make it a fascinating watch for silent film fans or anyone interested in early Latin American cinema. Its themes of justice and societal scrutiny still resonate today.
How long is La Baraja de la Muerte?
*La Baraja de la Muerte* has a runtime of 60 minutes.
About La Baraja de la Muerte (1916) — Chile's First Feature Film and a Crime of Scandalous Proportions
Dive into the chilling drama *La Baraja de la Muerte (1916)*, Chile's first national feature film that shook Santiago society to its core. Directed by Salvador Giambastiani, this silent-era crime romance reenacts the true story of Corina Rojas, a young socialite convicted of murdering her wealthy businessman husband—the first woman sentenced to death in Chilean history. Set against the rigid moral codes of early 20th-century Chile, the film blends suspense, societal hypocrisy, and tragic romance, capturing a moment where justice and scandal collided. The eerie title, "The Deck of Death," hints at fate's cruel hand, weaving a tale of betrayal and retribution that lingers long after the final reel.
Starring Palmira Fernández as Corina in a haunting performance, alongside Mario Carrasco and Alfredo Torricelli, *La Baraja de la Muerte* weaves a web of intrigue and moral ambiguity. The film's atmospheric tension mirrors the real-life scandal that gripped a nation, offering a glimpse into Chile's cinematic origins. While the silent film's visual storytelling may feel dated by modern standards, its historical significance and dramatic punch make it a compelling watch for silent film enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Stream or download this cinematic time capsule to experience a pivotal moment in Latin American film history.