Movie of the Day: Escape (2024) by Rodrigo Cortés
- dailyentertainment95
- Apr 24
- 8 min read
Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/es/pelicula/escape-2024 (Spain)
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt26451073/
Link Review: https://variety.com/2023/film/global/martin-scorsese-rodrigo-cortes-adrian-guerra-1235623722/
"Escape (2024)" by Rodrigo Cortés: A Kafkaesque Journey to Find Freedom in Confinement
"Escape," a 2024 Spanish-French co-production directed, written, and edited by the acclaimed Rodrigo Cortés ("Buried," "Red Lights"), is a dark, absurd, and thought-provoking drama-thriller based on the novel by Enrique Rubio. The film presents a disorienting premise: a man who desperately seeks to abandon his freedom and live in prison, exploring the extreme lengths he will go to achieve this paradoxical goal.
Detailed Summary
The film centers on N. (played by Mario Casas), a man profoundly broken by internal struggles and a deep-seated inability to make decisions in his life. Overwhelmed by the burden of freedom and the complexities of the outside world, N. develops an singular and all-consuming desire: to be incarcerated and remain in prison indefinitely. Convinced that a life behind bars will free him from the pressures and responsibilities he can no longer bear, he embarks on a deliberate and increasingly audacious campaign of criminal activity. As N. commits more serious offenses in an attempt to get arrested and receive a lengthy sentence, his actions sow confusion and distress among those who care about him, including his sister Abril (Anna Castillo). The film follows N.'s bizarre and often darkly comedic efforts to break into the prison system, presenting a series of absurd and disconcerting situations that challenge conventional notions of freedom, punishment, and sanity. His journey forces the audience to question the very nature of confinement and liberation, as those who try to help him remain outside while he yearns for the inside.
Plot Summary
A deeply troubled man named N., overwhelmed by his freedom, becomes obsessed with the idea of living in prison permanently and commits increasingly serious crimes to achieve his goal, baffling his loved ones and the authorities.
Director's Vision
Rodrigo Cortés has described "Escape" as an inversion of classic prison break narratives like "Escape from Alcatraz" or "Papillon." His vision was to create an "absurd and disconcerting tragicomedy" that disrupts the natural order of things and invites the audience to suspend logic. Cortés was drawn to the protagonist's paradoxical desire to enter prison as a form of escape from the overwhelming burden of freedom and decision-making. He aimed to explore the internal brokenness of a character who simply wants to "stop having options." The film is intended to be a "very free exercise" that fluctuates in tone, using elements of parody and caricature to highlight the absurdity of the protagonist's quest. Cortés also noted the connection to Enrique Rubio's novel, suggesting the protagonist's unique perspective, seeing things others cannot, stemming from a sense of being outside the conventional "bubble."
Themes
The Paradox of Freedom and Confinement: The central theme explores the idea that for some, freedom can be a burden and confinement a form of liberation.
Existential Crisis and Decision Paralysis: The protagonist's inability to cope with making choices drives his extreme desire for a life where decisions are made for him.
The Absurdity of Human Behavior: The film highlights the often irrational and nonsensical nature of human desires and actions through the protagonist's bizarre quest.
The Definition of Sanity: N.'s actions challenge societal norms and raise questions about what constitutes sanity and the reasons behind seemingly irrational behavior.
The Burden of the Past and Trauma: While not always explicit in summaries, the film hints at underlying pain and trauma driving the protagonist's desire for escape.
Love and Concern from Others: The reactions and attempts of N.'s loved ones to prevent his self-destructive path provide a contrasting emotional layer.
Key Success Factors
Based on its reception and critical commentary in Spain and at festivals, key success factors for "Escape" include:
Intriguing and Unique Premise: The film's central concept is a compelling and thought-provoking inversion of traditional narratives, immediately capturing attention.
Rodrigo Cortés' Distinctive Style: Cortés is known for his visually striking and often claustrophobic or intense filmmaking, which likely lends itself well to this story's themes of confinement and desperation.
Strong Lead Performance: Mario Casas in the challenging role of N. is a key factor, with early reviews acknowledging his brave immersion in the character.
Kafkaesque and Absurdist Elements: For audiences who appreciate films that delve into the absurd and explore existential themes, the film's style is a draw.
Recognition within the Spanish Film Industry: Nominations for notable Spanish film awards indicate a level of critical and industry appreciation.
Martin Scorsese's Executive Producer Credit: The involvement of a globally renowned filmmaker like Martin Scorsese brought significant attention to the project.
Summary Short
"Escape (2024)" by Rodrigo Cortés is a dark and absurd Spanish thriller about a man who, overwhelmed by life's decisions, becomes determined to get himself into prison and stay there, much to the distress of those around him.
Awards and Nominations
"Escape (2024)" has received recognition within the Spanish film industry, including:
Forqué Awards 2024: Nominated for Best Actor (Mario Casas).
Feroz Awards 2025: Nominated for Best Comedy Film, Best Supporting Actress (Anna Castillo), and Best Supporting Actor (José Sacristán).
CEC Medals (Pending 2025): Nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay (Rodrigo Cortés).
The film was also an Official Selection at prestigious film festivals such as the San Sebastián International Film Festival 2024 (RTVE Galas), the Sitges Film Festival 2024, and the Istanbul Film Festival 2025.
Critics Reception
Critical reception for "Escape (2024)" in Spain appears to be mixed to positive, with reviewers acknowledging its ambitious premise and stylistic approach, though with some reservations about its execution.
El País (Javier Ocaña): Noted a connection to classic Spanish absurdism and humorists, praising a "formidable" first hour but finding the second hour "excessively diluted."
Filmaffinity: Based on a significant number of user reviews, the film holds a rating of 5.8/10, suggesting a divided but leaning slightly positive reception among viewers. Some user reviews on the platform describe it as "brilliant madness" and a film that poses profound questions about freedom.
Cineuropa & The Film Verdict: Reviews from these platforms are listed but specific summary snippets highlighting their overall stance are not readily available in the search results.
Overall Summary of Critics Reception: Initial critical responses in Spain suggest that "Escape" is a film that sparks debate and is appreciated for its unconventional premise and stylistic ambition. While some critics found aspects of the execution uneven, particularly in the latter half, the film's originality, its blend of genres, and the lead performance by Mario Casas have been points of discussion and praise.
Reviews
Reviews for "Escape," primarily from its initial release in Spain and festival screenings, indicate that the film is a challenging and often thought-provoking watch. Critics have highlighted its unique concept as a major strength, drawing comparisons to Kafkaesque themes and absurdist literature. The film's ability to blend elements of thriller, drama, and dark comedy has been noted, though the success of this blend appears to be a point of divergence among reviewers. The performance of Mario Casas in the central role is also a key aspect discussed in reviews.
Box Office
As of the available information, "Escape (2024)" has a reported worldwide box office gross of approximately $771,884. This figure primarily reflects the film's theatrical performance in Spain and potentially limited earnings from international festival screenings.
Production
"Escape (2024)" is a co-production between Spain and France. The film was directed, written, and edited by Rodrigo Cortés. It is based on the novel of the same name by Enrique Rubio. The film boasts a notable executive producer in Martin Scorsese. Production companies involved include Nostromo Pictures, Cosmopolitan TV, Mogambo, The Project, Movistar Plus+, and RTVE. The film was shot in locations including Armuña de Tajuña in Spain. The cast features prominent Spanish actors led by Mario Casas and Anna Castillo, with supporting roles from José Sacristán, Blanca Portillo, Guillermo Toledo, Josep Maria Pou, and others.
Production Companies
Nostromo Pictures: (Country: Spain) - Production company.
Cosmopolitan TV: (Country: Spain) - Production company (likely in a co-production or participatory role).
Mogambo: (Country: Spain) - Production company (likely in a co-production or participatory role).
The Project: (Country: France) - Co-production company.
Movistar Plus+: (Country: Spain) - Production company (with participation).
RTVE: (Country: Spain) - Production company (with participation).
Sales Companies
Film Factory Entertainment: (Country: Spain) - Handles the international sales for the film.
Distribution Companies
Beta Fiction Spain: (Country: Spain) - Distributed the film theatrically in Spain.
Information regarding distribution in other territories is not widely available.
Release Date on Streaming
As of the current available information, "Escape (2024)" is not indicated as available for streaming on major platforms like JustWatch in the United States. Information regarding streaming releases in other territories is also not readily available.
Theatrical Release
"Escape (2024)" premiered at the San Sebastián International Film Festival on September 27, 2024. It had its theatrical release in Spain on October 31, 2024, distributed by Beta Fiction Spain. The film has also been screened at other international film festivals, including the Sitges Film Festival and the Istanbul Film Festival.
Why to Recommend This Movie
Bold and Original Concept: The film's inverted premise of a man wanting to go to prison is highly unusual and thought-provoking.
Rodrigo Cortés' Direction: Fans of Cortés' previous work and his distinct stylistic approach will likely be interested in his return to Spanish-language film.
Strong Lead Performance: Mario Casas takes on a complex and demanding role that is central to the film's impact.
Genre-Bending Narrative: The film's mix of drama, thriller, and dark comedy offers a unique viewing experience.
Why to Watch Movie
For a Film That Challenges Expectations: If you're looking for a movie that subverts traditional storytelling and explores unconventional ideas.
To See a Kafkaesque Story on Screen: The film's themes of alienation, absurdity, and bureaucratic struggles resonate with Kafka's work.
To Experience Contemporary Spanish Cinema: The movie provides an example of the kinds of ambitious and distinct films being made in Spain.
What Movie Trend film is following
The film aligns with the trend of existential thrillers and dark comedies that explore psychological states and societal norms through unconventional narratives. Its genre-bending nature and focus on an absurd premise also connect it to a trend of films that defy easy categorization. The involvement of a renowned international executive producer like Martin Scorsese also reflects the increasing global interconnectedness of filmmaking.
What Big Social Trend is following
The movie implicitly touches upon social anxieties related to the pressures of modern life, the burden of choice, and feelings of being overwhelmed. It also plays on societal perceptions of freedom, punishment, and the carceral system, albeit through a highly surreal and metaphorical lens.
Final Verdict
"Escape (2024)" by Rodrigo Cortés is a daring and intellectually stimulating film that lives up to the intriguing promise of its inverted premise. While its blend of genres and absurdist tone may not resonate equally with all viewers, and some critical feedback suggests potential unevenness in its pacing, the film is a memorable and thought-provoking experience. Anchored by a committed performance from Mario Casas and guided by Cortés' distinctive directorial vision, "Escape" is a film that challenges expectations and invites reflection on the very nature of freedom and confinement. Its recognition within the Spanish film industry and presence at international festivals highlight its artistic merit and unique voice. For those seeking a film that is original, dark, and unafraid to delve into the absurdities of the human condition, "Escape" is a compelling choice.
Recommendations for Filmmakers
Embrace Ambitious and Unconventional Premises: Don't shy away from high-concept or seemingly absurd ideas if they offer a compelling avenue to explore deeper themes.
Trust in Genre Blending (with Care): Combining elements from different genres can create unique tones and perspectives, but it requires careful balancing to ensure cohesion.
Collaborate with Strong Actors Willing to Take Risks: Complex and unusual roles require actors who are willing and able to fully commit to the character's journey, no matter how strange.
Recommendations for Movie Industry
Support Films That Defy Easy Categorization: Encourage and invest in projects that push creative boundaries and do not fit neatly into predefined genres, as these can often lead to fresh and innovative cinema.
Recognize the Value of International Co-productions: Collaborations between countries can bring together diverse talents and resources, leading to films with broader perspectives and potential reach.
Champion Films That Spark Discussion: Support movies that are likely to generate conversation and debate among audiences and critics, as this contributes to a vibrant film culture.
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