Awareness (2023)

Director: Daniel Benmayor

Starring: Pedro Alonso, Enzo Calleja, Lela Loren, Maria Pedraza

A teenager who lives with his father on the outskirts by running small scams using Ian’s ability to generate visual illusions upon unsuspecting victims. Things get complicated when his powers get out of control in public.

During the Cold War, agents were given a formula to give them special powers in order to control the enemy. These agents were part of a group called Awareness. Once the war was over, there was no need for these special people anymore.

Ian (Enzo Calleja) is 18 and living with his father, Vincente (Pedro Alonson) on a boat. They use Ian’s powers to steal what they need and keep a low profile. This all changes when Ian makes a mistake by using his powers in public, and he is traced by an organization lead by Adriana (Lela Loren). Adriana wants a blood sample from Ian so they can recreate the formula. While her intentions seem good, it isn’t clear in the beginning whether her intentions are true.

Also on Ian’s trail is the Perceiver (Oscar Jaenada), an unstoppable, powerful antagonist – another character whose intentions didn’t seemed clear at first, and I rather enjoyed this mysterious character.

Ian is able to project images, thus controlling anyone he wants to. With Adriana’s help, he is able to reach his full potential, which includes mind reading and finding memories in the brain. As a result, Ian discovers secrets about him, altering his perception on those around him. Esther (Maria Pedraza) from the agency teams up with Ian to unravel his past. There are many twists and surprises along the way.

‘Awareness’ is a complex story and there’s a lot of detail to digest, but this was one hell of an exciting ride. There’s plenty of action accompanied by incredible visuals, stunts and well choreographed fight sequences in the vain of big budget Hollywood superhero movies. The editing is FANTASTIC!! I mean, seriously, this film deserves an Oscar nomination for Best Editing!

There’s subtle humour that works very well, and a hint at a romance interest that never takes over the story. The film dishes up a great dose of fantasy, action, adventure, and sci-fi and everything blends well together. I was surprised just by how well made this film really is. It is subtitled with a confusing plot, but give it a chance and I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.

The climax is a thrill ride that ties all the pieces together and you’ll be satisfied knowing there are no loose ends still. I absolutely love this movie!

In Spanish.

Would I watch it again? Yes!