Yosi, the Regretful Spy (2022–2023)
8/10
muddled plot, but great characters
19 October 2022
Yosi (Iosi) is the strong silent type. This is probably uncharacteristic of many heroes of Latin American films, but very familiar to Hollywood. I read an in-depth, but negative review noting the hero "appeals to an imperturbable register, almost impenetrable, close to the anodyne, probably marked by the direction" Well, that fits the character in multiple ways; first he's traumatized in childhood by the suicide of his father, then as an adult, he's recruited to infiltrate and spy on the Jewish community in Argentina, which has a distinct culture, of course they pick a quiet, shy, reassuring personality to do this. Although the previous parts of his life are shown in flashbacks, we initially see him as an older man, after he's changed allegiances, so he's filled with regret and hounded by former allies. Finally, perhaps this was indeed directed to appeal to American/international audiences, certainly I'm used to seeing movies with this kind of protagonist. I admit, I had to look up the word "anodyne", but I don't see why this attribute is in any way a negative. So, he's not a typical, loud flamboyant Latino star, so what?

Each episode kept me in suspense, wondering how Yosi would survive and/or what made him do a 180 degree turn and become a dedicated Jew in spirit, if not through blood. It's not always clear and coherent, from episode to episode, and some of the audience seem to be confused over what I consider simple plot points. As long as the characters remain interesting, I don't really care. I'm certainly not going to address a long list with explanations. You just have to expect to suspend your disbelief with some of the material. I actually found it hard to believe that elements of Argentinian law enforcement actually believed Jews were going to create a second Jewish homeland in Patagonia, but it turns out this was actually a prevalent paranoia in real-life Argentina. I guess one should never underestimate Antisemitism. I learned a bit, but mostly just enjoyed the ride. Extensive flashbacks can be confusing, but it also allows depth of character development, so I'm not going to complain. I'm just enjoying the show.
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