Cronos, Guillermo del Toro’s 1992 feature debut, is recognized as an early masterpiece that showcases the director’s signature style. The film features key actors Federico Luppi and Ron Perlman, and combines elements of body horror with dark comedy.
The plot revolves around a mysterious mechanical object that grants vitality but comes with grim consequences. The story begins in the 16th century with an alchemist who invents the Cronos device, which contains a magical liquid capable of rejuvenating its owner.
In the present day, antiques dealer Jesús Gris, played by Luppi, discovers the Cronos. After being pricked by the device, he experiences a transformation that makes him younger yet instills a vampire-like thirst for blood. This newfound condition complicates his life and leads to darkly humorous situations.
The narrative thickens as Jesús becomes the target of a dying plutocrat, Dieter de la Guardia, who has been searching for the Cronos for years. De la Guardia’s brutish nephew, Angel, portrayed by Perlman, adds to the chaos with his clumsy attempts to recover the device.
With its bizarre set pieces and a unique visual style, Cronos stands out as a distinctive work from del Toro. The film will be available on digital platforms and UHD/Blu-ray starting February 24.
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