Cronos

About Cronos

Directed by Guillermo del Toro, 'Cronos' is a 1993 Mexican horror film. The film revolves around an antique dealer, Jesus Gris, who stumbles upon a 400-year-old scarab that, when it latches onto him, grants him youth and vigor. However, these powers come with a terrible price as Gris starts developing a peculiar craving for human blood and meets opposition from a wealthy, dying businessman who also wants the artifact.

Making / Production

Released in 1993, 'Cronos' marks Guillermo del Toro's feature film debut as both writer and director. Del Toro combined elements of the supernatural with profound human drama and created an unconventional vampire film. The movie was under production for several years due to financial constraints and other prohibitive factors. The production design and special effects were particularly notable in the making of the film.

Actors

• Federico Luppi as Jesus Gris: Luppi, a regular collabator of Del Toro's, played Gris with an excellent feel for the character's transformation, showcasing his acting capabilities.
• Ron Perlman as Angel de la Guardia: Perlman gave a memorable performance as the dying tycoon's nephew, Angel, displaying a perfect mix of intimidation and wit.
• Claudio Brook as Dieter de la Guardia: Brook delivered a powerful performance as the terminally ill businessman desperate to prolong his life.
• Tamara Shanath as Aurora Gris: Shanath played Gris' granddaughter, Aurora. Her silent yet expressive role added depth to the film.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This film marked Guillermo del Toro's debut as a director and writer in feature films.
• 'Cronos' incorporates del Toro's recurring themes of insects, machines, and the tragic consequences of eternal life.
• Despite the plot revolving around a vampire legend, the term 'vampire' is never explicitly mentioned in the film.
• Del Toro sold his van to help fund the film.

Awards

'Cronos' won several awards, including the prestigious "Mercedes-Benz Award" at the Cannes Film Festival, nine Ariel Awards from the Mexican Academy of Film including Best Picture, Best Director for del Toro, and Best Acting for Federico Luppi.

Quotes

• "There are things more precious than life... things you wouldn't give up, not even for life." - Jesus Gris
• "Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee..." - Aurora Gris
• "I knew you were dead, I knew it. But no matter what, I love you, son." - Dieter de la Guardia

Music, Soundtrack

• The film's haunting music score was composed by Javier Alvarez.
• The soundtrack perfectly complements the film's eerie atmosphere of dark fantasy.