La Ley De Herodes (2000)

Synopsis: Artistically photographed in a characteristic sepia tone, "Herod's Law" is a controversial and delirious comic fable told in a deliciously sarcastic tone. The story is set in 1949 in the authentically designed village of San Pedro de los Saguaros, a small town of 100 habitants, where... Artistically photographed in a characteristic sepia tone, "Herod's Law" is a controversial and delirious comic fable told in a deliciously sarcastic tone. The story is set in 1949 in the authentically designed village of San Pedro de los Saguaros, a small town of 100 habitants, where the last few mayors have been lynched. Consequently, amidst the proximity of future elections, the ruling party appoints Juan Vargas, a sleepy junkyard operator whose lust for power is awakened when he becomes mayor of the troublesome desert outpost. At first, the new mayor of San Pedro de los Saguaros is idealistic. Set on bringing the town the "modernity and social justice" his political party trumpets as its theme, he quickly learns the system works otherwise -- by "Herod's Law" (meaning "that's the way it is; there is no choice, whether you like it or not", although not in these exact words). Soon, Vargas is bribing, blackmailing, and even killing to consolidate his power. His humble way of life is now a whirlwind of violence, uncontrolled sensuality, lies and self preservation. Surprisingly, his corrupt ways are not only tolerated at the end but rewarded by a seat in his country congress. The characters, sublimely portrayed, can be taken 'as is' but also represent bigger entities; Arch roles without succumbing to caricature bursting with homespun tales. -- © Venevision International [More]