Coming Soon (In Theaters): Kill the Jockey (2025) by Luis Ortega: A Neo-Noir Thriller of Greed, Glamour, and Horse Racing's Underbelly

Core Summary: The Dark Horse of the Racetrack

Kill the Jockey (originally El Jockey) is a 2025 Argentine neo-noir thriller directed by Luis Ortega. Set in the high-stakes, corrupt world of Argentine horse racing, the film follows two young jockeys, Armando and Abel, intertwined in a dangerous web of debt, crime, and ambition. When Armando, a once-promising jockey now burdened by debt, fakes his own death after a botched drug delivery, his lookalike Abel is forced into his place, plunging him into a thrilling yet perilous race against powerful crime lords. The film promises a stylish, intense narrative exploring themes of identity, desperation, and the ruthless pursuit of success in a glamorous yet brutal underworld.

Snapshot: A Double Life in Racing's Shadow

A struggling jockey fakes his death, forcing his lookalike into a dangerous world of debt and crime within the glamorous yet corrupt Argentine horse racing scene. Luis Ortega's "Kill the Jockey" is a stylish, high-stakes thriller exploring identity, ambition, and survival.

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt28231777/

Link Review: https://cineuropa.org/en/newsdetail/466206/

About movie: https://protagonistpictures.com/film/kill-the-jockey/

In Theaters Wed Jul 2

Deep Dive: From the Track to the Underworld

Armando (played by Nahuel Pérez Biscayart), a once celebrated young jockey, now finds himself drowning in debt to a powerful, ruthless gangster named Sere (played by Daniel Melingo). Desperate to escape his crushing obligations, Armando agrees to a dangerous task: delivering a suitcase full of drugs for Sere.

However, the delivery goes horribly wrong. In a moment of panic and desperation, Armando stages his own death, disappearing from the racetrack and the clutches of his creditors. This shocking event leaves a void in the high-profile racing circuit and for Sere, who is now left with a significant loss.

Enter Abel (also played by Nahuel Pérez Biscayart), a younger, less experienced jockey who bears an uncanny resemblance to Armando. Sere, seizing an opportunity to recoup his losses and maintain control, forces Abel to assume Armando's identity. Abel, initially resistant, finds himself with no choice but to step into the dangerous shoes of his doppelgänger.

Now, Abel must navigate the treacherous world that Armando left behind – not just the competitive and physically demanding world of horse racing, but also the sinister, violent underworld controlled by Sere and other crime lords. He must win races, pay off debts, and maintain the illusion of being Armando, all while living in constant fear of exposure.

The film meticulously builds a neo-noir atmosphere, using the opulent yet morally decaying backdrop of the racetrack to highlight themes of greed, ambition, and the seductive power of money. As Abel delves deeper into this double life, the lines between his own identity and Armando's begin to blur, forcing him to confront not only external threats but also his own moral compromises.

The narrative is driven by thrilling horse races, tense encounters with gangsters, and Abel's desperate attempts to survive a game he never chose to play. "Kill the Jockey" promises to be a gripping exploration of identity, fate, and the lengths to which individuals will go to escape their circumstances, or perhaps, to fulfill their darkest desires.

The Journey: A Faustian Bargain on the Fast Track

• A Jockey's Desperation: Armando, a talented but indebted jockey, faces severe pressure from the gangster Sere. His only way out seems to be a dangerous drug delivery.

• The Faked Demise: The delivery goes awry, prompting Armando to make a drastic decision: he fakes his own death, vanishing from the racing world and his debts.

• The Doppelgänger's Coercion: Sere discovers Abel, a younger jockey with an unsettling resemblance to Armando. He forces Abel to assume Armando's identity to cover his losses and maintain his influence.

• A New Identity, A Dangerous World: Abel is thrust into Armando's life, navigating not only the demands of professional horse racing but also the perilous criminal underworld Armando was entangled in. He must win races, settle debts, and avoid exposing his true identity.

• Blurring Lines: As Abel lives Armando's life, the boundaries between the two identities begin to dissolve. He experiences the thrill and danger, forcing him to confront his own morality and survival instincts.

• High-Stakes Confrontations: The narrative is punctuated by intense horse races, violent encounters with criminals, and moments of psychological tension as Abel struggles to maintain his deception.

• The Final Reckoning: The film builds towards a climactic showdown where Abel must make a definitive choice about his identity and his future, battling the powerful forces that seek to control him.

Director's Lens: Capturing the Seedy Glamour

Luis Ortega's directorial vision for "Kill the Jockey" is deeply rooted in the neo-noir genre, aiming to create a stylish, atmospheric thriller that peels back the glittering facade of horse racing to reveal its dark, corrupt underbelly. Known for his distinctive visual style and exploration of morally ambiguous characters, Ortega (director of "El Angel" and "Lost City of Z") meticulously crafts a world where glamour and desperation intertwine.

His intention is to immerse the audience in the high-stakes environment of the racetrack, using dynamic cinematography to capture the speed and tension of the races, contrasting it with the grimy, dangerous world of organized crime. Ortega is particularly interested in themes of identity and fate, using the "doppelgänger" motif to explore how circumstance can force individuals into roles they never intended to play.

He seeks to create a palpable sense of tension and dread, employing a cool color palette and shadowy lighting typical of neo-noir. The film's aesthetic is designed to be both alluring and unsettling, reflecting the seductive danger of the world it portrays. Ortega’s direction promises a blend of psychological depth and visceral action, drawing viewers into Abel's perilous journey as he grapples with a stolen identity and a fight for survival.

Central Themes: Identity, Debt, and Corruption's Grip

• Shifting Identities: The central theme revolves around the blurring of identities, particularly as Abel is forced to assume Armando's life. It explores how circumstances can shape or distort one's sense of self and the psychological toll of living a lie.

• The Burden of Debt and Desperation: Financial ruin drives much of the initial conflict, highlighting the crushing weight of debt and the extreme measures individuals will take to escape it, even faking death or submitting to criminal control.

• Corruption in Glamorous Worlds: The film exposes the hidden corruption within the seemingly glamorous world of professional horse racing, revealing it as a stage for illicit activities, gambling, and criminal power plays.

• Fate vs. Free Will: The narrative explores the tension between predetermined fate (Abel's resemblance to Armando) and the choices individuals make when faced with impossible circumstances, questioning how much control one truly has over their destiny.

• The Allure and Danger of the Underworld: The film delves into the seductive yet brutal nature of organized crime, showcasing its power, the wealth it promises, and the severe consequences for those who become entangled in its web.

• Survival and Adaptation: Abel's journey is one of forced adaptation. The theme of survival against overwhelming odds is central, as he must quickly learn to navigate a treacherous world to stay alive.

Why It Shines: Stylish Thrills and Intense Performances

• Compelling Dual Performance: Nahuel Pérez Biscayart (known for "BPM (Beats Per Minute)" and "El Angel") is set to deliver a tour-de-force performance, playing both Armando and Abel, a challenging feat that promises to be a highlight of the film.

• Masterful Neo-Noir Atmosphere: Luis Ortega's distinct visual style and experience in crafting dark, compelling narratives suggest "Kill the Jockey" will be a visually striking film that expertly builds tension and captures the gritty glamour of its setting.

• Intriguing Premise: The doppelgänger concept within the high-stakes, corrupt world of horse racing offers a fresh and highly engaging premise for a thriller, promising twists and turns.

• High Production Values and Setting: Filming in Argentina's actual racetracks lends authenticity and scale, while the commitment to capturing the intense world of jockeying promises thrilling action sequences.

• Critically Acclaimed Director: Luis Ortega's prior work, particularly "El Angel," has garnered significant international praise, building high expectations for his latest venture into crime drama.

Awards & Acclaim: Anticipated Festival Buzz

As of June 2025, "Kill the Jockey" has generated significant pre-release buzz, particularly after its selection for the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024. This prestigious selection immediately positions it as a film with strong artistic merit and potential for critical recognition. While specific awards or nominations are yet to be announced, its Cannes premiere indicates it is a film to watch on the international festival circuit. Further nominations and awards are expected as it continues its festival run and moves towards wider release.

Critical Voices: Early Buzz for a Dark, Stylish Ride

Early critical buzz for "Kill the Jockey" emerged from its Cannes Film Festival premiere in Un Certain Regard in May 2024. Critics previewed the film as a dark and stylish entry into the neo-noir genre, praising Luis Ortega's distinctive directorial vision and the film's immersive atmosphere.

• Stylistic Prowess: Many reviews highlighted Ortega's confident command of visuals, noting the film's "cool aesthetic" and "shadowy" cinematography that perfectly encapsulates the seedy glamour of the racing world.

• Intense Performances: Nahuel Pérez Biscayart's dual role was frequently singled out as a potentially captivating performance, central to the film's exploration of identity.

• Genre Fidelity: Critics pointed to the film's strong adherence to neo-noir conventions, while injecting them with Ortega's unique artistic sensibility, creating a blend of classic crime thriller tropes and contemporary edge.

• Promising Narrative: The intriguing premise of a faked death and a forced identity swap within a high-stakes, corrupt setting was seen as a strong foundation for a gripping narrative.

While full critical consensus will only form after wider release, the initial reception from Cannes suggests "Kill the Jockey" is a critically well-regarded and eagerly anticipated film that delivers on its promise of a stylish, intense crime drama.

Audience Reactions: Eager Anticipation for a Gripping Thriller

Audience anticipation for "Kill the Jockey" is high, particularly among fans of stylish thrillers, neo-noir, and the work of Luis Ortega. The film's selection for the Cannes Film Festival in 2024 generated significant interest, building a reputation as a must-see independent production.

• Intrigued by the Premise: The unique concept of a jockey faking his death and his lookalike being forced into his shoes has captivated many, promising a thrilling and unpredictable plot.

• Excitement for Ortega's Vision: Audiences familiar with Luis Ortega's previous work, such as "El Angel," are eager to see his distinct directorial style applied to this high-stakes crime drama.

• Interest in the Setting: The backdrop of Argentine horse racing and its corrupt underbelly offers a fresh and compelling setting for a genre film, drawing in viewers looking for something beyond typical crime stories.

• Anticipation for Lead Performance: Nahuel Pérez Biscayart's dual role is a major draw, with many looking forward to seeing his versatility and intensity in portraying two distinct yet connected characters.

While formal audience reviews are limited ahead of its general release, the buzz from festivals and trailers suggests a strong positive reception is likely among those who appreciate artistic, character-driven thrillers.

Production Notes: Crafting a Neo-Noir World

"Kill the Jockey" is an Argentine production directed by Luis Ortega. The film began principal photography in 2023, with filming taking place on location in Argentina, specifically utilizing real racetracks to lend authenticity to the setting. This provided a crucial backdrop for the film's central narrative.

The production aimed to meticulously craft a neo-noir aesthetic, focusing on visual storytelling through cinematography and production design. The decision to cast Nahuel Pérez Biscayart in the challenging dual role of Armando and Abel was a key creative choice, requiring intricate planning for scenes involving both characters.

Luis Ortega, known for his hands-on approach and distinctive style, oversaw the creation of a gritty yet glamorous atmosphere that defines the film. The international collaboration involving production companies from Argentina, Mexico, Spain, and the United States highlights the global appeal and ambition of the project, facilitating a broader reach and higher production quality typical of such co-productions.

Production Companies: A Collaborative Global Effort

• El Deseo (Spain): The production company of acclaimed directors Pedro Almodóvar and Agustín Almodóvar, bringing significant international prestige and experience to the project.

• AZ Films (Argentina): An Argentine production company involved in the local production aspects.

• Infinity Hill (United States/Argentina): A production company with a presence in both the US and Argentina, contributing to the film's international scope.

• Rei Cine (Argentina): Another prominent Argentine production house known for its work on acclaimed independent films.

• Woo Films (Mexico): A Mexican production company, further broadening the film's Latin American roots.

• Telefe (Argentina): An Argentine television network that likely provided additional funding or support.

This strong line-up of international production companies underscores the film's significant backing and its ambition to reach a global audience.

Sales & Distribution: Global Reach from Cannes

• Film Factory Entertainment: This Spanish sales agent is handling international sales for "Kill the Jockey," leveraging its strong network to secure distribution deals worldwide. Their involvement signals the film's potential for broad international appeal in the art-house market.

• MUBI: The acclaimed streaming service and film distributor MUBI acquired distribution rights for the film for key territories, including North America, UK/Ireland, Latin America, Italy, and India. This is a significant acquisition that guarantees a prominent platform for the film in these regions.

Release Timeline: A 2025 Theatrical & Streaming Rollout

"Kill the Jockey" had its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section in May 2024.

Following its festival debut, the film is slated for a theatrical and streaming rollout in 2025. While specific dates vary by territory, MUBI's acquisition for North America, UK/Ireland, Latin America, Italy, and India suggests a strategic release plan aimed at their subscribers and arthouse cinema enthusiasts in those regions throughout 2025. Other territories will likely see releases via Film Factory Entertainment's network of distributors.

Why See It: A Stylish Ride into the Underworld

• Mesmerizing Dual Performance: Witness Nahuel Pérez Biscayart deliver what promises to be a career-defining turn, portraying two distinct characters with intertwined fates. His versatility is a major draw.

• Luis Ortega's Vision: If you're a fan of visually stunning, atmospheric cinema with a dark edge, Ortega's direction will not disappoint. He crafts a world that is both beautiful and terrifying.

• Gripping Neo-Noir Thriller: The film offers a classic genre narrative of deception, danger, and moral ambiguity, set against a unique and compelling backdrop, keeping you on the edge of your seat.

• Exploration of Identity and Fate: Beyond the thrills, the film delves into profound questions about who we are, how much control we have over our lives, and the masks we are forced to wear.

• Critically Acclaimed Buzz: Having premiered at Cannes, the film arrives with a strong critical endorsement, signaling a high-quality cinematic experience.

Why Watch: A High-Stakes Game of Deception

• For the Thrill of the Race: Experience the electrifying energy of horse racing intertwined with the high stakes of a criminal underworld. The film promises visually dynamic sequences both on and off the track.

• To See a Bold Artistic Statement: Luis Ortega is known for his uncompromising artistic vision. This film is an opportunity to witness a director at the top of his game, pushing boundaries in genre filmmaking.

• If You Love Crime Dramas with Depth: Beyond the action, "Kill the Jockey" offers a rich psychological exploration of its characters, delving into their motivations, fears, and moral compromises.

• To Discover International Cinema: This Argentine-led co-production is a prime example of exciting international filmmaking, offering a unique cultural perspective within a universally appealing genre.

Movie Trend: The Resurgence of Neo-Noir

"Kill the Jockey" perfectly embodies the "Resurgence of Neo-Noir." This trend sees contemporary filmmakers revisiting and reimagining the classic elements of film noir – moral ambiguity, cynical anti-heroes, femme fatales, corrupt systems, and stylized visuals – but with modern sensibilities, diverse settings, and often a more explicit exploration of violence and psychological decay. These films often reflect contemporary anxieties about power, identity, and the blurring lines between right and wrong, proving that the dark allure of noir remains as relevant as ever.

Social Trend: Questioning Identity in a Shifting World

"Kill the Jockey" taps into the pervasive social trend of "Questioning Identity in a Shifting World." In an era where digital personas, social media, and fluid self-definitions are increasingly common, the film's central premise of a forced identity swap resonates deeply. It explores the psychological impact of losing one's self, the performance of identity, and how external pressures can force individuals into roles that challenge their core being. This reflects a broader societal introspection about authenticity, self-discovery, and the multifaceted nature of human identity in complex and rapidly changing environments.

Final Verdict: A Gripping Ride into the Abyss of Identity

"Kill the Jockey" is poised to be a powerful and stylish addition to the neo-noir genre. Luis Ortega masterfully crafts a world where the allure of the racetrack clashes with the brutal realities of the criminal underworld, all seen through the eyes of a man forced to inhabit another's life. With Nahuel Pérez Biscayart's anticipated dual performance at its core, this film promises a psychologically rich and visually arresting exploration of identity, desperation, and the unforgiving nature of fate. It's a must-watch for anyone seeking a compelling, dark, and utterly immersive cinematic experience that lingers long after the final race.

Filmmaker's Guide: Crafting Authentic and Emotionally Rich Stories

• Master the Art of Atmosphere: For genre films like thrillers and neo-noir, prioritize creating a distinct atmosphere through lighting, color palette, sound design, and set design. This immerses the audience and enhances thematic depth.

• Embrace Complex Character Arcs: Even within a genre framework, allow your characters to evolve and face profound internal conflicts. The "doppelgänger" motif, as used here, is excellent for exploring identity crises.

• Leverage Setting as a Character: The racetrack in "Kill the Jockey" is more than just a backdrop; it's a character itself, reflecting the themes of high stakes, ambition, and hidden corruption. Choose settings that can actively contribute to your narrative.

• Invest in Authentic Details: Whether it's the specifics of horse racing or the nuances of criminal operations, meticulous research and attention to detail can significantly enhance a film's credibility and immersion.

• Collaborate with Strong Visual Artists: Work closely with your cinematographer and production designer to ensure your visual style consistently reinforces your thematic intentions and director's vision.

Industry Insights: Championing Diverse and Meaningful Cinema

• Invest in International Talent and Co-Productions: The strong collaboration of production companies from various countries for "Kill the Jockey" demonstrates how international partnerships can elevate projects, enhance production values, and expand global reach for unique cinematic voices.

• Recognize the Appeal of Genre Reinvention: The neo-noir genre has enduring appeal. The industry should support filmmakers who are reinterpreting classic genres with fresh perspectives, unique cultural backdrops, and contemporary themes.

• Support Auteur-Driven Cinema: Luis Ortega is an auteur with a distinct vision. Recognizing and backing directors with strong artistic voices can lead to critically acclaimed and culturally significant films, even if they don't always target mass-market appeal.

• Capitalize on Festival Launches: Premiering at prestigious festivals like Cannes is crucial for independent and international films. Distributors should strategically leverage this initial buzz to build momentum for wider theatrical and streaming releases.

• Embrace Niche Markets: While not every film is a blockbuster, there's a significant and growing audience for sophisticated, character-driven thrillers and international cinema. Targeted distribution via platforms like MUBI can effectively reach these engaged audiences.

Final Conclusions: A Gripping Ride into the Abyss of Identity

"Kill the Jockey" is poised to be a powerful and stylish addition to the neo-noir genre. Luis Ortega masterfully crafts a world where the allure of the racetrack clashes with the brutal realities of the criminal underworld, all seen through the eyes of a man forced to inhabit another's life. With Nahuel Pérez Biscayart's anticipated dual performance at its core, this film promises a psychologically rich and visually arresting exploration of identity, desperation, and the unforgiving nature of fate. It's a must-watch for anyone seeking a compelling, dark, and utterly immersive cinematic experience that lingers long after the final race.