"Fermín," a 2014 Argentine film directed by Hernán Findling and Oliver Kolker, is a compelling narrative that explores the intricate world of Argentine Tango.

This film masterfully weaves Tango into its storyline, using the dance as both a metaphor and a means of communication.

For those deeply entrenched in the culture and practice of Argentine Tango, "Fermín" offers a rich tapestry of emotion, history, and artistry that resonates on multiple levels.

Plot Overview

The film follows the life of Fermín Turdera, played by Héctor Alterio, an elderly man who communicates exclusively through the lyrics of Tango songs.

This peculiar yet poignant mode of communication draws the attention of Ezequiel (Gaston Pauls), a psychiatrist grappling with his own emotional turmoil. As Ezequiel delves deeper into Fermín’s world, he uncovers the haunting past of his patient, whose life was irrevocably altered by the political and social upheavals in Argentina.

The Directors: Oliver Kolker and His Dual Role

Oliver Kolker, co-director of "Fermín," is not only a filmmaker but also an accomplished Tango dancer and choreographer.

His deep understanding of Tango culture and its nuances profoundly influences the film’s authentic portrayal of the dance and its significance.

Kolker’s background in Tango allows him to infuse the movie with a genuine appreciation for the art form, ensuring that each dance scene resonates with emotional and cultural depth.

In addition to directing, Kolker plays the role of the psychologist, Ezequiel. His portrayal is marked by a delicate balance of empathy and professional detachment, capturing the complexity of a character who must navigate his own emotional struggles while trying to connect with Fermín.

Kolker's dual role as director and actor enables a seamless integration of the film’s thematic elements, particularly the healing power of Tango.

Tango as a Language

Argentine Tango is not merely a backdrop in "Fermín"; it is the lifeblood of the narrative.

Fermín’s reliance on Tango lyrics to express his thoughts and feelings is a testament to the profound impact of the dance and its music on Argentine culture.

Tango lyrics, often laden with themes of love, loss, and nostalgia, provide a unique and powerful means for Fermín to convey his inner world.

This aspect of the film beautifully illustrates how Tango transcends mere dance to become a language of its own, rich in emotional depth and historical context.

Historical Context

To fully appreciate "Fermín," one must understand the historical context in which Tango evolved.

Tango emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires and Montevideo.

It was a melting pot of influences, blending African rhythms, European melodies, and the musical traditions of the local criollos. Over time,

Tango became the voice of the marginalized, expressing their hopes, dreams, and sorrows.

The film subtly alludes to the dark periods in Argentine history, such as the military dictatorship of the 1970s and 1980s.

Fermín’s traumatic past, which includes the loss of loved ones and personal suffering, mirrors the collective trauma experienced by many Argentines during this era.

Tango, with its melancholic undertones, serves as the perfect vehicle to convey this shared history of pain and resilience.

Argentina's Political Hardships

To fully grasp the emotional weight carried by "Fermín," it's crucial to understand the political context.

The country was under a brutal military dictatorship from 1976 to 1983, a period known as the "Dirty War."

During this time, tens of thousands of people were "disappeared," tortured, and killed as the government sought to suppress political dissent.

This era left deep scars on Argentine society, and its impact is felt in the personal histories of the film’s characters.

Fermín’s past is marred by this turmoil, reflecting the collective trauma of a nation.

The film’s subtle references to this dark period add layers of meaning to Fermín's silence and the poignant use of Tango as a mode of expression.

The Characters

The characters in "Fermín" are richly drawn, each contributing to the film's exploration of Tango’s emotional and psychological dimensions.

Fermín Turdera

Fermín is a character shaped by the vicissitudes of life, his silence speaking volumes.

His reliance on Tango lyrics highlights his deep connection to the music and its themes. Through his interactions with Ezequiel, we see how Tango serves as a lifeline, allowing him to articulate his grief and memories.

Héctor Alterio's portrayal of Fermín is both poignant and powerful, capturing the essence of a man who has endured much yet remains resilient.

Ezequiel

Ezequiel, the psychiatrist, represents a younger generation struggling to find meaning and purpose.

His journey into Fermín’s world becomes a path to his own self-discovery. As he learns to understand Fermín’s language of Tango, Ezequiel also begins to confront his own emotional barriers. This dynamic between the two characters underscores Tango’s role in bridging generational and emotional divides.

Tango as Therapy

"Fermín" also explores the therapeutic potential of Tango. For Fermín,

Tango is a means of processing and expressing his trauma.

For Ezequiel,

it becomes a way to connect with his patient and, ultimately, with his own emotions.

This therapeutic aspect of Tango is well-documented in real life.

Tango therapy has been used to help people cope with a range of psychological issues, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD.

The physical closeness, rhythmic movement, and expressive nature of Tango can foster a sense of connection and emotional release.

The Dance

While "Fermín" is not a dance film in the traditional sense, it features several poignant Tango scenes that capture the essence of the dance. These scenes are not about showcasing technical prowess but about conveying emotion and connection.

The dance sequences are infused with the characters' histories and emotions, making them deeply moving.

In one memorable scene, Fermín dances with his late wife in a dream sequence. The choreography is simple yet profoundly expressive, encapsulating their love and loss. This scene illustrates how Tango, with its embrace and intimate movements, can evoke deep emotional resonance.

The Transformation of Centipede

One of the most fascinating characters in "Fermín" is Centipede, a shoeshiner who undergoes a remarkable transformation when he enters the milonga.

In everyday life, Centipede is largely overlooked, considered a "nobody" in the social hierarchy. However, once he steps into the Tango dance hall, he becomes a figure of grace and allure, embodying the elegance and passion of Tango.

This transformation highlights the democratizing power of Tango; within the embrace of the dance, social status and daily struggles are momentarily forgotten, allowing individuals to reinvent themselves.

Centipede's dual existence underscores the escapist and liberating aspects of Tango, where anyone can be someone desirable, if only for the duration of a song.

Fermín's Unique Dialogue Through Tango Lyrics

Fermín communicates exclusively through the lyrics of Tango songs, a unique narrative device that emphasizes the deep emotional and cultural connections embodied in the music.

This method of communication serves as both a poetic and poignant representation of his inner life. For instance, when asked about his feelings, Fermín might respond with a line from a famous Tango, such as "Volver con la frente marchita," which translates to "Return with a withered forehead," a lyric from Carlos Gardel's classic "Volver."

This line poignantly conveys themes of nostalgia and regret, offering a window into Fermín's soul.

His use of Tango lyrics allows him to express complex emotions and memories that he cannot articulate through ordinary speech, making the music a vital lifeline to his past and present.

The Music

The film’s soundtrack is a tribute to the richness of Tango music.

It features classic Tangos by legendary composers and lyricists such as Carlos Gardel, Aníbal Troilo, and Astor Piazzolla.

The choice of music is integral to the film’s narrative, reflecting Fermín’s internal states and the unfolding drama.

For aficionados of Tango, the soundtrack is a delight, providing a sonic journey through the genre's evolution and emotional landscape.

Cinematic Techniques

The directors, Findling and Kolker, employ a range of cinematic techniques to enhance the storytelling. The use of flashbacks provides a window into Fermín’s past, gradually revealing the events that shaped his present condition.

The cinematography captures the mood of the film, with a palette that shifts from the vibrant hues of Fermín’s memories to the muted tones of his current reality.

This visual contrast underscores the themes of memory and loss.

Cultural Resonance

"Fermín" resonates deeply with those who understand the cultural significance of Tango.

The film portrays Tango not just as a dance or musical genre, but as a repository of Argentine identity and history.

For the Argentine Tango audience, the film is a reflection of their cultural heritage, offering a nuanced portrayal of how Tango has shaped and been shaped by the country's social and political landscapes.

Personal Growth Through Tango

At its core, "Fermín" is a story about personal growth and transformation through Tango.

Fermín’s journey from silence to expression, and Ezequiel’s path from detachment to connection, highlight the transformative power of Tango.

For those who practice Tango, this theme is particularly resonant. Tango is often described as a dance of connection – not just with a partner, but with oneself. It requires presence, vulnerability, and emotional honesty, qualities that are essential for personal growth.

Lessons for Tango Practitioners

"Fermín" offers several valuable lessons for Tango practitioners:

Embrace the Emotional Depth: Tango is more than steps and technique; it is a dance of emotion. Allow yourself to feel and express the full range of emotions through your dance.
Understand the History: Knowing the history and cultural context of Tango can deepen your appreciation and connection to the dance. It can also provide a richer vocabulary for expressing yourself.
Use Tango as Therapy: Whether you are dealing with personal issues or simply seeking a deeper connection with yourself, Tango can be a powerful therapeutic tool. Embrace its potential for healing and transformation.
Value Connection Over Perfection: In Tango, the connection with your partner and the music is more important than executing perfect steps. Focus on building that connection and letting the dance flow naturally.

The Essence of Tango

"Fermín" is a film that beautifully captures the essence of Argentine Tango. Through its rich narrative, complex characters, and evocative use of music and dance, it offers a profound exploration of Tango’s emotional and cultural dimensions.

For the Argentine Tango audience, "Fermín" is a testament to the transformative power of Tango.

Whether you are a seasoned dancer or new to the world of Tango, "Fermín" invites you to experience the dance in a deeper, more meaningful way.

Fermín: Glimpses of Argentine Tango Through Cinematic Expression