The Man Who Loved UFOs (2024) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
In a world where the line between fact and fiction is increasingly blurred, The Man Who Loved UFOs (2024) emerges as a fascinating, albeit uneven, exploration of journalism, media manipulation, and the lure of the unknown. Directed by Diego Lerman and co-written with Adrián Biniez, this film captures the bizarre adventures of José de Zer, a journalist from Argentina, who makes it his mission to convince the world of alien existence—whether or not the evidence is real.
As the film unravels, it walks a fine line between comedy, drama, and social commentary. Set against the backdrop of rural Argentina in the late 1980s, the story paints a vivid picture of a time when media ethics were secondary to the pursuit of fame and fortune. But does the movie deliver on its intriguing premise, or does it lose itself in its own sensationalism? Let’s dive in.
Plot Overview
The Man Who Loved UFOs centers on José de Zer (Leonardo Sbaraglia), a journalist who collapses during an interview after allegedly witnessing a UFO. He soon finds himself drawn into a scheme led by local business mogul Pedro Echevarriaza and Isadora Lopez Cortese, who want to transform the fading town of La Candelaria into a tourist hotspot. Their plan? Manufacture alien sightings to attract attention.
José, along with his cameraman Chango (Sergio Prina), embarks on this peculiar mission to create sensational footage that would convince the public—and themselves—that extraterrestrial life exists. As they dive deeper into the hoax, the boundaries between reality and fiction become increasingly blurred, leading to moments of both absurdity and poignancy.
A Nod to Media Sensationalism
Lerman’s film plays on the idea that the media, particularly in the late 1980s, thrived on spectacle rather than truth. The Man Who Loved UFOs takes aim at the ethics of journalism, reflecting how far one can go to generate ratings and public interest. Comparisons to classic films like Ace in the Hole or Peepli Live are inevitable, as the film touches on themes of media manipulation, sensationalism, and the exploitation of people’s gullibility.
José’s journey is one of moral ambiguity, constantly caught between the desire for success and the nagging sense that he’s perpetuating a fraud. The duo’s persistence in creating ever more elaborate deceptions reveals not just their desperation, but also the audience’s willingness to believe what they want to hear, no matter how outlandish it may be.
Performances and Cinematography
Leonardo Sbaraglia delivers a captivating performance as José, portraying him with just the right mix of vulnerability, cunning, and obsession. His portrayal evokes sympathy for a man trapped by his own ambition. Sergio Prina’s Chango provides a perfect counterbalance to José’s intensity, offering moments of dry humor and deadpan reactions to the escalating chaos around them.
The cinematography by Wojciech Staron deserves special mention, as it captures the rugged beauty of Argentina’s rural landscapes, giving the film an otherworldly feel that fits its subject matter. The burnt hills, desolate skies, and eerie settings make you feel as if something otherworldly could indeed be happening—though you’re never quite sure if it’s all in your head.
Where the Film Falters
While The Man Who Loved UFOs is strong in its first half, where it brilliantly sets up its central conflict and tone, the film stumbles as it progresses. The pacing slows down significantly, with scenes that drag and subplots that seem to lead nowhere. Around the halfway mark, the film shifts from an examination of media ethics to a more muddled meditation on fame, faith, and mental health. This tonal inconsistency can make it difficult for viewers to stay invested, especially as the film’s core message begins to lose focus.
The film also struggles with its ending, where the much-anticipated “reveal” of the alien hoax feels underwhelming. For a movie that promises intrigue and mystery, the final payoff doesn’t quite hit the mark. This leaves the viewer with a sense of frustration, as if the film had built up to something far greater than what it ultimately delivers.
Streaming Services – Where to Watch Online
As of now, The Man Who Loved UFOs is available to stream exclusively on Netflix in the United States. Netflix’s global reach makes it an ideal platform for this kind of film, especially given its mix of international and indie cinema. Unfortunately, the film is not yet available on other streaming platforms like Hulu, Amazon Prime, or Disney+.
If you’re looking to rent or purchase the film, your options are limited to Netflix’s streaming service. At this time, there are no official listings for rental or purchase via platforms like Google Play Movies, iTunes, or Amazon Video. Keep an eye on future announcements, as availability may expand depending on the film’s popularity.
Final Thoughts
The Man Who Loved UFOs is a film with a compelling premise that doesn’t quite live up to its potential. While the first half captures the absurdity and charm of its subject matter, the film falters in its second act, losing focus and dragging toward an unsatisfying conclusion. That said, its portrayal of 1980s media culture, combined with strong performances and beautiful cinematography, makes it worth a watch for those interested in whimsical dramedies or media satires.
For viewers who love quirky, offbeat narratives with a touch of nostalgia, The Man Who Loved UFOs offers an enjoyable, if not entirely cohesive, ride. However, if you’re seeking a tightly paced, mind-bending story about extraterrestrial life, you might leave feeling somewhat disappointed.
If you’re intrigued by The Man Who Loved UFOs and want to see how the story of José de Zer unfolds, head over to Netflix and stream it today. For more unique movie recommendations and reviews, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media!
