Top 7 Hidden Details That Elevate 'Society of the Snow' Above Its Predecessor

7. A Touching Tribute through Names

Unlike its cinematic predecessor 'Alive', 'Society of the Snow' takes a step deeper into authenticity by using the real names of the deceased, excluding the pilots. This thoughtful decision by J.A. Bayona reflects his commitment to honoring both the survivors and the lost souls of the 1972 Andes plane crash. It's a poignant detail that might escape casual viewers but holds immense significance for those acquainted with the true events. The choice maintains a respectful narrative, ensuring that the film serves as a memorial, not just entertainment.

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

6. First-Time Actors' Raw Portrayals

Director J.A. Bayona's casting choices for 'Society of the Snow' were unorthodox yet brilliant. Many cast members hailed from Argentina and Uruguay, some with no prior acting experience. This decision added an authentic societal texture to the film, focusing on the collective experience rather than individual stardom. Unlike 'Alive', which featured known actors like Ethan Hawke, this film's ensemble cast brought raw, unpolished energy to the screen, emphasizing the real-life individuals' stories over any actor's fame, thus creating a more immersive and grounded viewing experience.

Several survivors sitting outside of the ruined plane in Society of the Snow

5. The Chronological Filming Journey

An unusual and remarkable approach to filmmaking was taken by J.A. Bayona for 'Society of the Snow' – shooting the film chronologically. This rare method enabled the actors to immerse themselves deeply into their roles, with physical transformations that evolved in real time, capturing weight loss and wear that paralleled their characters' deteriorating conditions. Bayona's commitment to this process showcases his dedication to genuine storytelling, allowing audiences to witness the gradual, harrowing changes that the survivors endured, thereby enhancing the film's raw authenticity.

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

4. Numa Turcatti's Nephew's Heartfelt Goodnight

In a touching homage, 'Society of the Snow' features Joaquín De Freitas Turcatti, the real-life nephew of Numa Turcatti who was the last to perish at the Andes crash site. Joaquín's brief but powerful appearance adds a layer of emotional depth to the narrative, as he bids 'goodnight' to his on-screen uncle, played by Enzo Vogrincic. This hidden detail, unknown to those watching the film, ties the past to the present and infuses the film with an intimate connection to the Turcatti family's legacy, offering a silent yet impactful tribute.

Numa Turcatti (Enzo Vogrncic) during the avalanche in Society of the Snow.

3. Survivor Turned Doctor: Roberto Canessa's Cameo

Roberto Canessa, not only a survivor of the Andes tragedy but also one of the heroes who trekked across the mountains to find help, graces 'Society of the Snow' with a cameo as a physician. The real Canessa, now a pediatric cardiologist, guides his on-screen younger self, portrayed by Matías Recalt, towards rescue. This meaningful inclusion offers viewers a symbolic bridge between the past and present, and stands as one of the film's most poignant elements, quietly honoring the resilience and life that followed after the crash.

Roberto Canessa's Smiling Playing A Doctor In Society Of The Snow

2. Filming at the Andes Crash Site

Bayona's dedication to veracity led the 'Society of the Snow' production to the very location of the Andes plane crash. The treacherous terrain meant that only portions of the film could be shot there, yet these efforts to capture the true background and atmosphere were paramount. The majority of the fuselage scenes took place at a ski resort in Grenada, Spain, but the commitment to filming on-site, even if limited, added an unparalleled layer of authenticity to the movie, bridging the gap between the recreated and the real.

Enzo Vogrincic as Numa kneeling on a snowy mountain in The Society of the Snow

1. Survivors Play Homage to Their Past

Perhaps the most compelling aspect of 'Society of the Snow' is the involvement of the actual survivors. Carlitos Páez, who lived through the ordeal, plays his father in the film, delivering an emotional recitation of the survivors' names. Meanwhile, Nando Parrado makes an appearance as a family member in an airport scene, bringing a sense of closure to his own story. These participations not only provide the film with a seal of approval from those who experienced the tragedy but also create a powerful connection between the audience and the real heroes of this incredible survival tale.

Carlitos Paez's Playing His Father Society Of The Snow