On March 5, 2025, the Mexican action film Contraataque claimed the top spot for viewership on Netflix, drawing intrigue for its fresh take on the action genre, focusing on honorably depicted soldiers rather than the traditional narratives surrounding crime and drug trafficking. Directed by Chava Cartas, known for his previous works like Mirreyes vs Godínez and Nuestros tiempos, this 85-minute production has quickly captured the attention of audiences both locally and internationally.
At its core, Contraataque follows Captain Armando Guerrero and his elite unit, Los Murciélagos, during a hostage rescue mission. They soon become embroiled with the notorious drug cartel “El Enjambre,” orchestrated by the ruthless Josefo Urías. The film begins with two women stumbling upon a mass grave, leading to their abduction by the cartel to prevent them from exposing the grisly discovery. This sets the stage for the intense conflict between the soldiers and drug lords, showcasing the valiant fight against adversity.
According to lead actor Luis Curiel, who plays one of the soldiers, the film is not just about action; it aims to reshape how Mexicans are viewed within the national cinema. He expressed, “We want to show Mexicans who defend the country, protect one another, and see each other as brothers,” highlighting the aspiration to present heroes instead of villains, which is often predominant in films depicting Mexico.
This film also marks a significant shift from regular depictions of Mexican culture, aiming to reflect the hardworking and honorable elements of society. Curiel emphasized the importance of portraying Mexican military as heroes, stating, “It’s time we start seeing ourselves for what we really are.”
The production company spent considerable time preparing for the film. The actors underwent nine weeks of rigorous training, including sessions with special forces, which enhanced their ability to portray their characters realistically. Curiel noted, “Our training not only taught us combat skills but also the importance of teamwork and discipline, which are pivotal for our characters' dynamics.”
Curiel shared his experiences during the filming, emphasizing moments of patriotism, like singing the national anthem during training, which solidified his connection to the character. “Each day felt like entering the spirit of what it means to be Mexican,” he recalled. The actor’s personal values of bravery and discipline mirror those of his on-screen character, reinforcing the notion of overcoming fear to act.
Critics and audiences have had mixed responses to Contraataque. While some early reviews praised its emotional depth beyond typical action tropes, others felt it lacked innovation. A common theme, as reported by various media outlets, is the film's ability to invoke conversation about representing Mexican soldiers as integral and commendable figures—an often overlooked perspective within the national cinematic framework.
Notably, Noé Hernández, who portrays the antagonist Urías, expressed astonishment at the film's reception. He stated, “We’re very grateful to the audience for embracing the film with such magnitude and heart.” This engagement has shown there's significant interest from the public for more narratives portraying the valiance and commitment of Mexican military forces.
At only days since its release, Contraataque amassed over 18 million views, outpacing many well-known English films, including Venom: Let There Be Carnage. This surge showcases how the film has not only connected with Mexican audiences but has also reverberated across international borders, pushing forth the idea of authentically crafted Mexican cinema.
Hernández believes the film’s success lies not only within its action sequences but also its underlying message. “We need to see our heroes, the committed soldiers serving day-to-day. Until now, we’ve talked much about narcos, but heroes exist, and they deserve the spotlight,” said the actor.
The film’s visual action, combined with its emotional narrative, contributes to its ascension within Netflix's top ranks, confirming the public's appetite for quality action films with national representation. It steers clear of reinforcing criminal narratives and instead focuses on heroic tales of sacrifice and camaraderie.
“Contraataque” is truly not just another action movie. It signifies the potential shift within Mexican cinema, as it elevates the portrayal of its military, offering inspiration for future films amid the extensive dialog surrounding violence and crime. The hope is to continue exploring meaningful stories through the lens of action cinema, where Mexican identities shine with authenticity and artistry.
With its powerful narrative and high production quality, Contraataque invites viewers to enjoy not only the action but also the rich cultural stories of resilience and determination inherent within Mexican history and society. You can catch it on Netflix, where it promises to deliver both entertainment and food for thought.