I’m always game to throw Latino-American horror in the mix. This one comes to us from Argentina. I have to be very careful how not to give it away, because this is one of those where you probably want to go in blind. So, we’re talking mystery, we’re talking some horror elements and possibly you could consider it a thriller as well. There are enough clues to figure it out before the big reveal, but at the same time I don’t like to weight in films just because of a twist.

On the 3rd Day (2021) was directed by Daniel de la Vega, based on the screenplay by Alberto Fasce and Gonzalo Ventura. It’s based on the novel by Gonzalo Ventura of the same name. Cecilia (Moro Anghileri) is about to take a ride with her young son Martin. At the same time, a priest named Father Enrique (Gerardo Romano) loads up a large wooden box onto his truck. They will both be involved in an accident. When Cecilia gains back consciousness, she’s wandering by herself with no memory of what happened. Aided by friendly doctor Pastori (Lautaro Delgado Tymruk) and pursued by her ex husband Fernando (Diego Cremonesi), Cecilia must make sense of what’s happened.

It’s very difficult to review a movie with a twist. I can say, this is a movie with a mystery to solve where the tension depends on Mariana “Moro” Anghileri delivering a strong performance, and she does. Her memories and her trauma seem to be giving her visions of her son while she’s wide awake. There’s a bit of stereotype roles for the doctor and the police but mostly they work within the context. The moment of the reveal does change the film slightly and requires a strong bout of suspension of disbelief. You’re been warned.

Recommended with some reservations. I can’t really ignore the twist in the story, but the overall film does work as a mystery thriller. The horror elements are there, although there’s not many scares to be had. The cast delivers with solid performances including the best one for Mariana Anghileri as Cecilia. The twist remains either the closer here. Some will find it satisfying enough to wrap the entire film with a bow, but I see how some audiences could find it disappointing. I’m still only partially sold on it. Your mileage might vary.

That will do for now.