Aftermath (1994 film)

Aftermath FilmPoster

Aftermath is a 1994 Spanish short film directed by Nacho Cerdà. The film is notable within the horror genre for its explicit depiction of necrophilia, making it a subject of controversy and acclaim for its unflinching exploration of themes of death and desecration. The narrative, largely devoid of dialogue, focuses on a mortician's increasingly perverse fascination with the bodies he is supposed to prepare for burial.

Plot

The film opens in a morgue, where a mortician, played by Xevi Collellmir, begins his workday. As the night progresses, the mortician's actions grow more disturbing, culminating in the sexual abuse of a female corpse. The film's climax reveals the mortician taking the heart of the corpse home as a macabre trophy, leaving the audience to ponder the depths of human depravity.

Production

Aftermath was written and directed by Nacho Cerdà, who aimed to explore the themes of death and the afterlife in a manner seldom approached in cinema. The film's graphic content and lack of dialogue challenge the viewer to confront their own feelings on mortality and desecration without the cushion of narrative explanation. The cinematography by Jordi Mayol is noted for its stark, unflinching portrayal of the film's events, utilizing a combination of lighting and camera angles to enhance the unsettling atmosphere.

Reception

Upon its release, Aftermath garnered a polarized response from audiences and critics alike. Some praised the film for its boldness and unique approach to horror, highlighting Cerdà's direction and the film's ability to provoke deep, uncomfortable questions about death and what follows. Others criticized it for its graphic content, labeling it as gratuitous and exploitative. Despite the controversy, Aftermath has achieved a cult following, particularly among fans of extreme cinema, and is often cited as a significant work in the genre for its uncompromising vision.

Legacy

The impact of Aftermath on the horror genre and independent film is notable. It has been discussed in academic circles and film studies for its thematic depth and controversial subject matter. The film has also influenced a number of directors and filmmakers in the horror genre, who cite Cerdà's work as an example of how cinema can explore taboo subjects with artistic integrity.