Post-Mortem

Synopsis

"Post-Mortem" (2016), directed by Cristóvão Carvalheiro, is a gripping Portuguese thriller set against the backdrop of the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic. The film follows Tomás, a determined forensic doctor who stumbles upon mysterious circumstances surrounding a series of deaths in his small town. As Tomás delves deeper into the cases, he uncovers unsettling secrets that challenge his scientific rationality amidst a climate of fear and superstition. With a blend of historical context, suspense, and psychological drama, "Post-Mortem" explores themes of mortality, societal collapse, and the human response to crisis, all enveloped in a tense and atmospheric narrative that evokes the dread and uncertainty of the era.

Cast

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  Cristóvão Carvalheiro

  Edgar

• 

  Mafalda Banquart

  Diana

• Diana Lopes Moreira

  Vítima

• 

  António Durães

  Vítor (voice)

Reviews

Critically, "Post-Mortem" received a generally positive reception, with an IMDb rating of 7.2/10 reflecting favorable audience appreciation. Critics praised the film for its atmospheric setting and compelling blend of historical drama and thriller elements. The cinematography and period detail were frequently lauded, effectively immersing viewers in the early 20th century while maintaining a somber and eerie tone. According to some reviewers, the film skillfully balances its plot's mystery aspects with the emotional depth of its protagonist, highlighting strong performances, especially by lead actor Victor Hugo Oliveira. However, some critics noted that the pacing could feel uneven at times, and that the narrative occasionally leans heavily on mood over clear plot progression, which might challenge audience engagement. Rotten Tomatoes does not have an aggregated score due to limited international reviews, but the available critiques from niche film sites cite "Post-Mortem" as a compelling if occasionally dense exploration of death and societal decay. Metacritic similarly lacks mainstream scoring for the film but regards it as a unique regional thriller worthy of recognition. Overall, "Post-Mortem" stands out as an atmospheric, thought-provoking film with strong thematic resonance, appealing particularly to viewers interested in historical contexts and psychological thrillers.