Safe Return Doubtful

Crime Drama Guatemala 2021 – recently released to streaming services 

This is an evocative indie crime drama with a gradual and addictive reveal. At the heart of it is a wonderful performance by the lead, Karen Martínez, just one of a powerful and yet non-professional cast. 

Bea and Sarita are sisters in their early 20s living on the outskirts of Guatemala City with their strict grandmother. They, particularly the older sister, like to go out and party, though against their grandmother’s wishes. Bea convinces Sarita to go out to a nightclub used by a local gang one night. Sarita leaves early, and the next morning finds Bea didn’t return home. When the police cannot help she sets out in search of her, starting with a visit to Andrés, Bea’s ex boyfriend, a dangerous gang member. 

Spanish director Justin Lerner works with the dark underside of the city incredibly well, and has the skill to intersperse squalid images of filth, grime and corruption with ones of beauty and exoticism. 

And there is the title.. just what is a Cadejo Blanco.. 

This is a powerful and rewarding film, but these days so often key elements of the plot are given away in trailers and media summaries. My advice is to avoid them if you intend to see it, which I recommend. And save the internet search for Cadejo Blanco until the end of the film also.. 

IMDb score 6.6 / 10 – My score 8 / 10