In a sea of summer films packed with CGI and special effects, Writer and Director Barney Elliott has delivered a smart, clever, and thoughtful, multi-narrative thriller based on a historical reform that took place in 1968. Stephen Dorff stars as a New York financier who will go against all odds to settle a business deal with a Peruvian farming community, a deal which has implication to destroy their way of life. The Debt is a thrilling mystery rooted in realistic, honest characters who are joined by the force of having to make a decision with the effects being out of their control. Definitely worth a watch this summer.
16 Reviews
Great emotional pay off
subxerogravity11 July 2016
I like watching movies about other cultures other than my own.
The structure of The Debt told a human very story as they say:
A nurse desperate to find a way to get her sick mother the surgery she needs.
A small boy learning the hard way how to take care of his father's land.
A man born in Peru and educated in America trying to balance business with doing the right thing for his people.
http://cinemagardens.com/index.php/2016/07/11/the-debt
It's down to Earth sub plots like this that make the movie pop out and come together so well.
I really loved the back drop of Peru. it's a beautiful country, and the sound of the wind blowing into the boom mic actually made me feel like I was there.
The Debt has a lot of layers to it because of all the sub stories and lead to one huge plot about an international fiancé deal going south and Stephen Dorff's character, Oliver's attempts to fix it, but it never gets too complex that you can't follow, even with the subtitles.
Very low key movie does not hold back the emotional and political drama it is.
The structure of The Debt told a human very story as they say:
A nurse desperate to find a way to get her sick mother the surgery she needs.
A small boy learning the hard way how to take care of his father's land.
A man born in Peru and educated in America trying to balance business with doing the right thing for his people.
http://cinemagardens.com/index.php/2016/07/11/the-debt
It's down to Earth sub plots like this that make the movie pop out and come together so well.
I really loved the back drop of Peru. it's a beautiful country, and the sound of the wind blowing into the boom mic actually made me feel like I was there.
The Debt has a lot of layers to it because of all the sub stories and lead to one huge plot about an international fiancé deal going south and Stephen Dorff's character, Oliver's attempts to fix it, but it never gets too complex that you can't follow, even with the subtitles.
Very low key movie does not hold back the emotional and political drama it is.
Very good movie. Similar to Traffic
mtguerra9512 February 2021
This movie plays different story's that interlace. Showing greed, corruption, suffering, and repentance. This movie ending scene and soundtrack are amazing, very similar to Steven Soderbergh Traffic ending and Brian Eno An Ending soundtrack.
A Story of Life.
patherwill13 May 2023
A huge financial deal 2 years in the making, cancelled. A nurse who finds ulterior means to help her Mother who desperately needs an operation. A young boy whose Father behaves like an ogre towards him and a good man who is torn between his position,loyalty towards his people and his best friend, and with all this in the mix "something" has to give and when it does the price will be heavy. Excellent acting from the greatly under-rated David Strathairn, Stephen Dorff, always watchable and this time he plays against type as a man who is prepared to tread on as many toes as is necessary to get what he wants - but has he a redeeming factor? Watch and see. Elsa Olivero who is faced with a really life-threatening decision just when she believes she has at last succeeded, Alberto Ammann as Riccardo. I really enjoy these types of dramas where so many irons are in the fire at once and they gradually ALL come together but NOT always in a good or happy way.
A perspective on the autonomous and independent world
onthejuice9 July 2016
In this story the common conceptions of the international free trade system are confronted. The film brings together the lives of various parties and focuses upon the fate of one boy.
Individuals can be understood as separate and distant from each other. Yet in this depiction, the interdependence of individuals, of their actions, within the global economic system is brought into question.
The film attempts to bring light upon and question the issues of independence, of the seemingly autonomous existence capitalism promotes and depicts the interconnected nature of dealings across the international economy, ultimately bringing the various parties together to confront the realities of the decisions they make.
The writer/director does not attempt to go into the philosophy of film, nor do they give bourgeois depictions of meaning to life, but faces the realities of the system in which we live. It's not happy go lucky, the film is not an objection to capitalism nor does it try to be a sermon of the misfortunes of the poor and the evil natures of the rich, but presents a perspective of the responsibilities and realities we face in the economically focused lifestyles which we are a part of.
In the same vain as 'blood diamond' and 'promised land'.
Individuals can be understood as separate and distant from each other. Yet in this depiction, the interdependence of individuals, of their actions, within the global economic system is brought into question.
The film attempts to bring light upon and question the issues of independence, of the seemingly autonomous existence capitalism promotes and depicts the interconnected nature of dealings across the international economy, ultimately bringing the various parties together to confront the realities of the decisions they make.
The writer/director does not attempt to go into the philosophy of film, nor do they give bourgeois depictions of meaning to life, but faces the realities of the system in which we live. It's not happy go lucky, the film is not an objection to capitalism nor does it try to be a sermon of the misfortunes of the poor and the evil natures of the rich, but presents a perspective of the responsibilities and realities we face in the economically focused lifestyles which we are a part of.
In the same vain as 'blood diamond' and 'promised land'.
I thought I was about to watch a thriller and watched a golden gem instead !
Objectivity16 January 2018
What a surprise, what a surprise !
I thought this was going to be a financial thriller and ended up watching one of the best films in my lifetime.
Anyone who has lived in a developing country will experience a rollercoaster of emotions on seeing this film as the story could apply to absolutely any developing country. And what a story. Ten minutes into the film and I started saying "What a fantastic film - who made this film ?", and I carried on saying that at regular intervals throughout the film. This film has so many layers that if you understand everything it is trying to portray you simply want to meet the Writer/Director. For the Writer/Director to hail from New York and yet understand all the subtelties, consequences, and tragedies of life for the common person in a developing country demonstrates a unique capacity for observation and, critically, empathy.
This is a cinematically beautiful, sad, brutally accurate, tense, but also uplifting film, all at the same time. This film should have been taken to Cannes and it would have won the top prize - someone missed a marketing trick there.
Still - easily one of the best films I have ever seen. Watch it - you won't regret it.
I thought this was going to be a financial thriller and ended up watching one of the best films in my lifetime.
Anyone who has lived in a developing country will experience a rollercoaster of emotions on seeing this film as the story could apply to absolutely any developing country. And what a story. Ten minutes into the film and I started saying "What a fantastic film - who made this film ?", and I carried on saying that at regular intervals throughout the film. This film has so many layers that if you understand everything it is trying to portray you simply want to meet the Writer/Director. For the Writer/Director to hail from New York and yet understand all the subtelties, consequences, and tragedies of life for the common person in a developing country demonstrates a unique capacity for observation and, critically, empathy.
This is a cinematically beautiful, sad, brutally accurate, tense, but also uplifting film, all at the same time. This film should have been taken to Cannes and it would have won the top prize - someone missed a marketing trick there.
Still - easily one of the best films I have ever seen. Watch it - you won't regret it.
Review for The Debt
reneelemire28 July 2016
Sometimes in the film culture, there can be a presence of skewed portrayals of different ethnicities or places that aren't the reality of their actual representation. For example, a lot of people see Peru as just an exotic vacation destination because of the beautiful rain forests and Machu Picchu that's the logical destination. It's not depicting Peru in its entirety in the way it deserves. However, I can say with full conviction and admiration that Director Barney Elliot in The Debt, took the time and care to create a thrilling but heart felt drama while fostering Peruvian culture and history by accurately portraying the reality of Peru. He didn't set this high finance deal between New York businessmen and Peruvian farmers regarding the 1968 agrarian reform in Machu Picchu or the exotic shorelines. Rather, he showed the urban, busy life of Lima, the hard working farmland pastures of the Peruvian countryside, and the limited amount of hospital care in Peru to tell a moving yet suspenseful tale on the unexpected consequences of the character's decisions. I recommend this not only for fans of dramas but also it is important to be educated on the reality of our worldly surroundings.
Excellent. Astonishing film work.
blancastarolivera21 February 2020
Collection Reflection
thesar-225 March 2017
Warning: Spoilers
How far people will go measures both their love of their family and what they're truly capable of. So
be careful of loyalty. You may not know what you're up against.
While searching for a "Modern Western," or a movie based in today's times with most of the Western genre's tropes, I stumbled upon The Debt, a 2015/6 gem I never heard of and may never have seen if not for the quick notice of the word "Peruvian" in the synopsis.
You see, I just had a visitor, a friend, come from Peru and stayed here, near me in Arizona, for a month. I have not been to his country before, so I relished in the idea of watching a movie based in his country. And, boy, did it ever show more of Peru than I imagined it would.
Actually, the movie is split into three overlapping stories with two completely set in Peru. A medical employee is desperate to take care of her elderly mother. A farmer's son is desperate to find his llama. And a corporate tycoon is desperate to land a deal no matter if it costs an arm or a leg. Wow. This movie should've been called Desperation.
It's a good, slow-moving, interesting and realistic film. Nothing groundbreaking, but has some good twists and a heartbreaking third act that will show people's consequences when they didn't even know any were coming.
Highly recommend this hidden experience. Plus, it might teach you a thing or two about Peru.
***
Final thoughts: I've seen this kind of threesome story before and probably will again. I happen to love this kind of filmmaking and have yet to get tired of it. If you do, as well, dive right in. Learn some more about (all country's) societies and yourself.
While searching for a "Modern Western," or a movie based in today's times with most of the Western genre's tropes, I stumbled upon The Debt, a 2015/6 gem I never heard of and may never have seen if not for the quick notice of the word "Peruvian" in the synopsis.
You see, I just had a visitor, a friend, come from Peru and stayed here, near me in Arizona, for a month. I have not been to his country before, so I relished in the idea of watching a movie based in his country. And, boy, did it ever show more of Peru than I imagined it would.
Actually, the movie is split into three overlapping stories with two completely set in Peru. A medical employee is desperate to take care of her elderly mother. A farmer's son is desperate to find his llama. And a corporate tycoon is desperate to land a deal no matter if it costs an arm or a leg. Wow. This movie should've been called Desperation.
It's a good, slow-moving, interesting and realistic film. Nothing groundbreaking, but has some good twists and a heartbreaking third act that will show people's consequences when they didn't even know any were coming.
Highly recommend this hidden experience. Plus, it might teach you a thing or two about Peru.
***
Final thoughts: I've seen this kind of threesome story before and probably will again. I happen to love this kind of filmmaking and have yet to get tired of it. If you do, as well, dive right in. Learn some more about (all country's) societies and yourself.
Loved this one.
SophiaWhite23228 July 2016
The Debt is a financial drama that I recommend watching at least once. Novice director Barney Elliott teams up with executive producer Christine Vachon and a talented, star studded cast to deliver his first feature film. Set partly in New York and Peru, The Debt tracks three distinct narratives on the path to meeting each other. Throughout each of their stories, the characters face financial and moral issues that force them to make tough, life- changing decisions. The complexity of the film is the best part about it. It allows the actors to immerse themselves into their roles and challenges the audience to think more deeply. In one narrative, Stephen Dorff's character Oliver must make challenging decisions to either secure a large international business deal or help Peruvian natives keep their land. On the flip side in Lima, the talented Elsa Olivero plays Maria Ruiz, a poor nurse who is desperately struggling to care for her sickly mother. The struggles of life and business are exposed to show that even decent people will make bad choices when pushed to the brink. If you like emotionally charged films, I recommend adding this one to your summer watch list.
Barney Elliott delivers a strong debut feature
shanewilliams-8620428 July 2016
The Debt features riveting talent all across the board. Blade's Stephen Dorff and The Bourne Ultimatum's David Strathairn shine as the bankers who attempt to acquire land from a Peruvian family. Barney Elliott has managed to put together a moving cast that portrays the suspenseful story; with a special mention for Elsa Olivero who gives a heartbreaking performance as a nurse who tries desperately to care for her sick mother. The narrative is topical as it involves three separate stories that intertwine because of a deal to buy some land in Peru by New York financiers. In my opinion, newcomer Barney Elliott showcases great direction and writing as presented by a surprising turn the film makes, which caught me off guard. Furthermore, the film is shot beautifully as Peru is such a vibrant setting. It's great to see an independent movie that utilizes every frame from start to finish and kept me on edge. I recommend that any film lover see this feature.
10/10 Recommend
jcrowe-3344227 July 2016
Warning: Spoilers
So besides the fact that Stephen Dorff is one of my favorite actors (saw him in Blade too!), I watched The Debt because it looked different from any other movie out now, and it completely is. I love the idea of juxtaposing the logical American business-type with the family-oriented, hardworking Peruvian farmer. The diversity of this cast is enough to make it stand out alone. But the script is also something to consider. Surprisingly, the drama starts out innocently enough with Dorff's character, Oliver, traveling to Peru with his partner to try and buy back land and settle semi-ancient debt from 1968. But then the film twists completely, leaving you rooting for both Oliver and the landowning farmers, although they each want two different things. This is truly one of those movies that absorbs you into another place, another culture. You can relate to Oliver obviously but also find yourself empathizing with the plight of these local Peruvians as their society crumbles under financial pressure. Highly recommend seeing this one if you want to change your perspective about other countries.
English Spanish
manuofk3 January 2021
Rivoting kept my attention
nanettemeau12 May 2023
Demonstrates that character is who we are behind closed doors. Everyone at some point will be forced to make a decision. It will happen. The decisions we make are a compilation of what our desires are. Selling the soul ... For what? Swapping. Trading. All to get what we think is right or simply our desires. But is that a lie? Are we blinded by our selfish interests? Is it the right thing to do no matter what? Can we live with our decisions? Who do we hurt along the way? Emotions cloud out views of what is right. It takes tragedy sometimes to see what is most important. Then true character is revealed.
Watch it with a friend; what choices would you make?
kristimmkm30 June 2023
Warning: Spoilers
To finalize a deal, Oliver has to get Florentino, a man building a home and a life for his family on the mountain, to sell that property which he inherited from his father. Florentino is adamant about staying there. Oliver's boss says it's taking too long and he needs to direct his resources elsewhere if Florentino isn't going to cooperate. Oliver gets a week's time to try to close the deal or they cancel the whole thing. Oliver sends his closest friend to the mountain to negotiate with Florentino but his friend falls in the river and dies. When he doesn't return, Oliver must go see Florentino himself. Is Oliver so business oriented (or greedy) that he isn't concerned about his friend's unexplained absence?
Maria is a nurse with an ailing mother but the doctor in charge of her hospital won't allow her mother to have the surgery she needs because the hospital is too busy. Maria finds a way to blackmail the doctor so her mother can check in the hospital.
Florentino's son Diego gets badly hurt and needs to get to the hospital, but horseback is the only option this family has. However, Oliver is there and he could arrange for an airlift to the hospital, if he wanted to. He now has the leverage to force Florentino to sell but will he?
When the boy Diego is hospitalized, it's determined he needs surgery if his leg is to be saved. The head doctor dumps the decision onto Maria: he says the hospital surgeon is too busy and she must choose who get the next surgery. Will she possibly save her mother Gloria's life or will she choose the boy Diego to save his leg?
I won't ruin the rest of the plot for you. The acting in this movie is good. You'll be glad it is, if you don't know Spanish, because you'll have to read their body language. Most of this movie is in English but the residents of Peru speak Spanish, and when I saw it, only the English speakers were close captioned. Nonetheless, I understood the Spanish portion of everything I just wrote here from watching the actors' reactions.
Maria is a nurse with an ailing mother but the doctor in charge of her hospital won't allow her mother to have the surgery she needs because the hospital is too busy. Maria finds a way to blackmail the doctor so her mother can check in the hospital.
Florentino's son Diego gets badly hurt and needs to get to the hospital, but horseback is the only option this family has. However, Oliver is there and he could arrange for an airlift to the hospital, if he wanted to. He now has the leverage to force Florentino to sell but will he?
When the boy Diego is hospitalized, it's determined he needs surgery if his leg is to be saved. The head doctor dumps the decision onto Maria: he says the hospital surgeon is too busy and she must choose who get the next surgery. Will she possibly save her mother Gloria's life or will she choose the boy Diego to save his leg?
I won't ruin the rest of the plot for you. The acting in this movie is good. You'll be glad it is, if you don't know Spanish, because you'll have to read their body language. Most of this movie is in English but the residents of Peru speak Spanish, and when I saw it, only the English speakers were close captioned. Nonetheless, I understood the Spanish portion of everything I just wrote here from watching the actors' reactions.
Multiple social drama spiced with dirty capitalism
clanciai29 September 2023
It is really the story of a small boy, a small Indian boy in Peru, who introduces the film by being stirred by a helicopter that suddenly invades the beautiful mountain landscape with its horrible noise. That helicopter signals an approaching doom, but no one is aware of it. Two young businessmen of New York are interested in some land in Peru, which a Peruvian colleague wants them to buy for him in exchange for some vital bonds. The moment this deal enters the story you start to suspect the worst. The small boy spends his days guarding his father's herds of sheep and a lama, and at one time the helicopter turns up again and scares the lama off. The boy spends days and nights searching for their vital lama and finally finds it, while the second young businessman is there to try to find out why this land of very high plains is so attractive for entrepreneurs. He finds the secret of the land but perishes in an accident. Meanwhile the boy and his lama are scared again by the helicopter for the third time and runs away and falls, injuring his leg on a stone. Blood poisoning develops, and he has to be brought to a hospital in Lima. The first entrepreneur offers to help them with the transport if the farmer agrees to sell his lands. The farmer has to agree to save his son's life. The son is brought to the city hospital - by that same helicopter.
There is also the story of the nurse whose mother is in horrible pains and almost dying, and to save her life she uses extortion to make a doctor prefer her as a patient to the boy. At least the nurse and her mother get happy but no one else.
It's a very moral tale prying into the mechanisms of fate how one mishap can result in a chain reaction of others with tragic results that no one desired or was responsible for. It is also beautifully made with marvellous panoramic scenes of the Andes of Peru, which the boy often admires. It is both a cold cynical account of life when things happen that should not, and a heart-rending story of what is right and what is not. Many questions are left unanswered when the film leaves us with many things to think about.
There is also the story of the nurse whose mother is in horrible pains and almost dying, and to save her life she uses extortion to make a doctor prefer her as a patient to the boy. At least the nurse and her mother get happy but no one else.
It's a very moral tale prying into the mechanisms of fate how one mishap can result in a chain reaction of others with tragic results that no one desired or was responsible for. It is also beautifully made with marvellous panoramic scenes of the Andes of Peru, which the boy often admires. It is both a cold cynical account of life when things happen that should not, and a heart-rending story of what is right and what is not. Many questions are left unanswered when the film leaves us with many things to think about.
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