The Crimes That Bind (2020) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The film is set in Buenos Aires, the capital city of Argentina. Buenos Aires serves as more than just a backdrop; its rich cultural heritage, diverse neighborhoods, and European-style architecture create an atmosphere that reflects the complex social dynamics and class tensions central to the story.

• buenos aires
• argentina
• setting
• location

The film takes place in contemporary times, reflecting modern societal challenges without specifying an exact year. This timeless approach emphasizes that the themes of justice, family conflict, and social inequality remain relevant issues in today's world.

• contemporary
• modern
• time period
• era

Familial betrayal is a central theme, as Alicia confronts the devastating reality that her son Daniel is capable of violent acts. This betrayal destroys her idealized image of her family and forces her to navigate profound emotional turmoil while deciding whether to stand by her son or acknowledge the truth.

• familial betrayal
• family
• mother son
• denial

The film examines how the justice system contains flaws and how individuals face moral dilemmas when confronting crimes committed by loved ones. Alicia's journey evolves from denial to seeking truth, highlighting the complex struggle between protecting family and demanding accountability for violent actions.

• justice
• morality
• judicial system
• legal

Home and belonging are explored through Alicia's luxurious house becoming a site of conflict, and through Gladys's story of seeking safety and acceptance. The film critiques class perceptions and examines how domestic spaces can transform from places of comfort to environments defined by tension and betrayal.

• home
• belonging
• class
• domestic
• society

Alicia, portrayed by Cecilia Roth, is a devoted mother who initially believes her son Daniel is innocent. As the story unfolds, she faces painful truths about Daniel's violent behavior and her own denial. Her transformation represents a journey from blindness to acceptance, showing both strength and vulnerability.

• alicia
• cecilia roth
• mother
• protagonist

Daniel is Alicia's son, played by Benjamín Amadeo. Initially viewed by his mother as a victim, the narrative reveals his darker side and the impact of his violent actions on those around him, particularly the women he has wronged, leading to significant family strain.

• daniel
• benjamín amadeo
• son
• antagonist

Gladys, portrayed by Yanina Ávila, starts as a seemingly simple maid but evolves into a troubled individual with a dark past. Her character arc reveals the complexities behind her actions and her deep need for connection and redemption within the household.

• gladys
• yanina ávila
• maid
• supporting character

Ignacio, played by Miguel Ángel Solá, serves as a contrasting figure to Alicia, often warning her about untrustworthy choices. He represents the burden of maintaining family integrity amid overwhelming circumstances, leading to conflict with Alicia as they face their son's issues together.

• ignacio
• miguel ángel solá
• father
• family

Marcela, portrayed by Sofía Gala, represents one of Daniel's victims and embodies the struggle against domestic violence. Her role is pivotal in revealing the impact of Daniel's actions and pushing the narrative toward its moral confrontation.

• marcela
• sofía gala
• victim
• domestic violence

The film has a dark, intense tone centered on serious crimes and domestic betrayal. While emotionally taxing with constant tension from courtroom scenes and confrontations, it is not entirely bleak, the protagonist's journey leads to personal growth and a new, more humble form of family, resulting in a bittersweet ending.

• tone
• intensity
• dark
• bittersweet

The film delivers a poignant message about confronting uncomfortable truths within family, even when it means losing one's idealized image of a loved one. It suggests that true acceptance comes from acknowledging reality, and that personal growth can emerge from devastating circumstances, though the path involves significant loss.

• message
• meaning
• theme
• interpretation