The Real Letters That Inspired Society of the Snow

The Authentic Inspiration

The film, Society of the Snow, is not just a cinematic masterpiece; it is a portrayal of real-life events and sentiments that were captured from the survivors of the 1972 Andres plane crash. J.A. Bayona, the director, and his production team dedicated hours to firsthand interviews with the survivors, making the movie a genuine representation of the tragic incident.

the survivors sitting in and around the broken fuselage in Society of the Snow

Society of the Snow, premiered on Netflix on January 4, 2024, and has since become a widely discussed movie on the streaming platform. It has captured the heroic and sacrificial events, focusing on the true story of the 1972 Andres plane crash. The film's authenticity is evident through the involvement of real-life survivors and relatives of the deceased, who made cameo appearances, adding a profound layer of realism to the narrative.

Society of the Snow characters outside carrasco airport

The Significance of Zerbino's Suitcase

A pivotal moment in Society of the Snow is when survivor Gustavo Zerbino refuses to leave without a suitcase containing letters and mementos from the deceased. Zerbino's adamant stance to preserve the keepsakes added a remarkable level of realism to the film, as it mirrored a true event from the survivors' experience.

Gustavo Zerbino in Society of the Snow

The suitcase, holding letters and mementos from the deceased, played a crucial role in preserving the memories and emotions of those lost in the tragedy. These keepsakes, including letters from Coco and Arturo, were later displayed at the Andes Museum, alongside other artifacts from the crash site, testifying to their historical and emotional significance.

The 16 survivors in Society of the Snow in the hospital

The Importance of Salvaged Letters

The salvaged letters from the survivors, especially those preserved by Zerbino, offer a unique and invaluable perspective into the experiences of the victims depicted in Society of the Snow. These letters are not only historical artifacts but also primary sources that articulate the emotions and thoughts of the survivors and the deceased during their harrowing ordeal in the Andes.

Susana 'Susy' Parrado (Alfonsina Carrocio) and Fernando 'Nando' Parrado (Agustín Pardella) in Society of the Snow.

The letters provide a deep insight into the survivors' recollections of the deceased, offering a rare glimpse into their true sentiments and emotions during their time on the mountain. They have played a pivotal role in recreating the spirit of the film, enhancing its authenticity and emotional depth.

Two men embrace and cheer at the sky in Society of the Snow.