The Moment of Truth is a 1965 movie directed by Francesco Rosi.
The Moment of Truth chronicles the rise and fall of Miguelin, a farmer’s son who becomes a famous bullfighter. The movie explores the physical and emotional costs of a dangerous lifestyle.
Rosi creates a narrative feature that feels more like a documentary. Miguel Mateo Miguelin essentially plays himself – a professional bullfighter dealing with the trauma of his profession. It’s clear he isn’t an actor, but that’s the point. His inexperience in front of the camera and credibility as a bullfighter adds to the gritty realism of the movie.
The Moment of Truth is a classic rise and fall tragedy. You can sense an unfortunate end arriving as the 24-year old torero begins an existential reflection. He’s physically and emotionally worn down from a brutal schedule: “Is it really worth it? Is it all just a dream?”
Miguelin is cast as wildly successful but he’s slowly being stripped of his individuality. He’s essentially a product of Don Jose, the Impresario – who arranges Miguelin’s untenable schedule. Jose downplays Miguelin’s exhaustion and fears, urging him to realize “his moment” as a bullfighter.
The theme of exploitation is prevalent throughout the movie as Miguelin owes most of his laborer wages to a job agent. The lure of bullfighting offers an escape, yet even its supposed perks figuratively enslave him. As his fame rises, he’s seduced by Linda, an American with a known reputation. He’s an exotic conquest for her – a plaything of sorts that is easily cast aside.
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