Trauma (2017)
Director: Lucio A. Rojas
Genre: Horror / Exploitation / Psychological Thriller
Starring: Catalina Martin, Daniel Antivilo, Ximena del Solar
Trauma is an extreme horror film from Chile that blends psychological terror, brutal violence, and political allegory. It follows a group of women who become victims of unspeakable atrocities at the hands of a deranged man and his son. The film is notorious for its disturbing scenes and relentless brutality, drawing from Chile’s dark history under dictatorship to create a horrifying narrative about trauma, abuse, and power.
The movie begins with a disturbing prologue set during Chile’s military dictatorship, where a government officer forces his son to commit an unthinkable act, conditioning him into a cycle of violence and dehumanization. This opening scene establishes the generational trauma that fuels the horrors to come.
Years later, four women—Andrea, Camila, Julia, and Magdalena—embark on a relaxing trip to the countryside. Their weekend getaway takes a nightmarish turn when they cross paths with Juan, the same man from the opening scene, who is now an unhinged and sadistic killer, along with his equally depraved son. The two men attack the women in a horrifyingly violent assault, leaving them traumatized and desperate for survival.
The survivors, struggling with the psychological and physical aftermath of the assault, decide they must fight back. With the help of a local man who has also suffered at the hands of Juan, they plan their revenge, leading to a brutal and bloody final confrontation.
Trauma (2017) is one of the most shocking and disturbing horror films in recent years, pushing the boundaries of extreme cinema. Its blend of historical commentary and relentless brutality makes it a difficult but thought-provoking watch. However, due to its graphic nature, it’s not for the faint of heart.
