Under the Salt (R) 7.5

Under the Salt (2008) "Bajo la sal" (original title): When he arrives at a village near a remote salt mine to solve a string of grim murders, Detective Comandante Trujillo turns his investigation toward a troubled youth who works in a funeral parlor. (6.7)

Director: Mario Muñoz
Writers: Angel Pulido, Mario Muñoz
Stars: Humberto Zurita, Plutarco Haza, Emilio Guerrero
Language: Spanish (w/ English subtitles)

A murder mystery with more than a few twists. Yes, movies from Mexico seem to show move blood and gore than your average Hollywood equivalents, but it is quite appropriate here. The selection of the location, the sets, the use of lighting and the good camera angels all add up to a fabulous cinematography work. The story within is the stop-motion animation that the young man is doing, and that is also done with great care and skill. Even the effort put into the credits show that this indeed is not just a movie, but a labor of love. The acting is quite good; some of them look a bit stiff, but they are supposed to be like that for the part. And, the story itself is quite interesting and keeps you guessing all the way through. I'd say worth a look. My Rating: 7.5