Menendez: The Day of the Lord

Santiago Alvarado plays with audience expectations, much like Pazuzu with a crucifix in certain scenes. For a long time, it seems like the phrase "exorcising the devil" will involve swapping two letters in the middle of the first word, with a stun gun and a head bringing unexpected revitalization, and the girl's puberty leaving no doubt that her behavior resembles obsession (instability, vulgarity, contempt, sarcastic cynicism). Then, after revealing who’s who, there’s a shift with a likable comedic touch and the realization that there are areas where sadistic tendencies blend the pleasant with the useful, especially when there’s a hospital nearby. (10/04/2023)