Zama

Zama

Year: 2018

Runtime: 115 min

Language: Spanish

Director: Lucrecia Martel

Drama

In the oppressive heat of 18th-century South America, Officer Álvar Núñez Cepeda y Namуры, known as Zama, finds himself trapped in a frustrating bureaucratic standstill, awaiting a royal order that seems increasingly unlikely. Years of waiting and dashed hopes leave him vulnerable, exploited by a series of governors. Driven to desperation, he reluctantly joins a dangerous expedition to track down a notorious and elusive outlaw, embarking on a journey fraught with peril and uncertainty.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Zama yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline – Zama (2018)

Trace every key event in Zama (2018) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Zama's Isolation

In the late 18th century, Don Diego de Zama finds himself trapped in a remote outpost in Argentina. He longs for the company of his wife and children, who live far away, which adds to his sense of isolation.

Late 18th Century Remote Argentine Outpost
2

Desire for Transfer

Zama harbors a deep desire to transfer to Lerma, a position he believes is within his grasp. This longing becomes a focal point of his daily life, driving his actions and decisions.

Outpost
3

Gossip of Vicuña Porto

The small town is alive with tales about Vicuña Porto, a notorious figure known for his robberies. Many locals boast of having bested him, adding to Zama's concerns as he navigates his own challenges.

Small Town
4

Unrequited Love

Zama becomes infatuated with the wealthy and married Spanish noblewoman, Luciana Piñares de Luenga. Despite his persistent advances, Luciana continuously turns him down, adding to his frustration.

Outpost
5

Conflict with Ventura Prieto

Zama's personal interests become entangled with his professional life as he confronts Ventura Prieto, an assistant magistrate. Their tensions rise sharply when Zama learns Prieto has won Luciana’s attention.

Outpost
6

Violent Altercation

After the escalating tensions, Zama and Prieto engage in a violent confrontation. The fallout results in Prieto’s deportation to Lerma as ordered by the governor, marking a significant turn in Zama's narrative.

Outpost
7

Governor's Departure

Zama receives devastating news that the governor, his only ally for the desired transfer, has been ordered to leave by the King of Spain. This revelation leaves Zama feeling hopeless and frustrated.

Outpost
8

Scrutiny from New Governor

Faced with increased scrutiny from the new governor, Zama is commanded to review a manuscript written by an employee during work hours. Reluctantly, he follows orders but ends up producing a biting account.

Outpost
9

Despair and Decision

Feeling despair after realizing his hopes for the transfer are distant, Zama decides to join a group intent on capturing Vicuña Porto. This decision marks a turn towards a more desperate and perilous action.

Outpost
10

Captured by Indigenous Tribe

During a hunting expedition, Zama and his companions are unexpectedly captured by an indigenous tribe but are later released. This incident adds complexity to his understanding of power and survival.

Forest
11

Betrayal and Capture

As the group attempts to return home, Zama faces a dilemma when confronted by the captain who insists they need to capture Porto. In a turn of events, Zama reveals Porto's identity, leading to a betrayal.

Forest
12

Brutal Punishment

Zama is betrayed by Porto’s followers and subjected to a brutal punishment where his hands are severed. This act strips away his agency and leaves him in a harrowing state, clinging to life.

Forest
13

Rescue and Uncertainty

Zama awakes adrift on a raft after being rescued by an indigenous man and child. This marks a moment of temporary safety, yet his future remains uncertain as he grapples with his new limitations.

River

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 17:16

Unlock the Full Story of Zama

Don't stop at just watching — explore Zama in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Zama is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Zama Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Zama, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Zama Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Zama

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Zama. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Zama

More About Zama

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Zama: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Zama

Similar Movies to Zama

Discover movies like Zama that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.