The True Story Behind the Netflix Movie ‘Society Of The Snow’

The True Story Behind the Netflix Movie 'Society Of The Snow'

Society Of The Snow True Story – In 1972, something really big happened in the Andes mountains of South America. A plane crashed with 45 people on board, including a group of amateur rugby players from Uruguay. This event has been talked about a lot and even made into books and movies. You might have heard of the movie “Alive” with Ethan Hawke in 1993. Now, there’s a new movie called “Society of the Snow” by Spanish filmmaker JA Bayona, and it’s streaming on the Netflix.

Today, we’ll dive into the fascinating true story behind this thrilling film, exploring the real-life events that inspired its creation.

True Story Behind the ‘Society Of The Snow’ Movie

This harrowing incident took place in 1972 when a plane full of young rugby players, family members, and friends crashed in the Andes Mountains, leaving the survivors facing unimaginable challenges in their battle for survival.

1. The Ill-Fated Trip

It all began on October 12, 1972, when the Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571 departed from Montevideo, Uruguay, heading towards Santiago, Chile. Onboard were 45 passengers, including members of the Old Christians Club rugby team, their supporters, and some family members. Excitement filled the air as they embarked on what was supposed to be an exhilarating trip.

2. The Tragic Crash

As the plane flew over the Andes, it encountered treacherous weather conditions, including dense clouds and heavy snowfall. The pilots, unable to see the mountains clearly, accidentally hit a peak called Cerro Seler. The impact was catastrophic, causing the plane to disintegrate and crash into the mountainside.

Shock, panic, and chaos ensued as the survivors realized the gravity of their situation. Many suffered severe injuries from the crash, and the cold, harsh environment added to their struggle.

Dealing with Hunger

3. The Fight for Survival Begins

Miraculously, 27 people survived the initial crash, but their relief was short-lived. They found themselves stranded in the remote and freezing Andes Mountains, with no means of communication and limited supplies. Injured and disoriented, they faced an uphill battle to stay alive.

They quickly realized that they needed a plan to ensure their survival. The survivors regrouped, and their unwavering teamwork and determination became their greatest asset. They knew that together, they had a better chance of overcoming their dire circumstances.

4. The Power of Teamwork

One of the most remarkable aspects of this story is the unwavering teamwork and unity displayed by the survivors. Despite their dire circumstances, they refused to give up. They worked together to create makeshift shelters from the plane wreckage, using seat covers and other materials to protect themselves from the harsh elements.

They pooled their meager resources and rationed the few candy bars they had. They melted snow for hydration, using every method available to them. The survivors understood that their strength lay in their collective effort and support for one another.

5. Dealing with Hunger

With no food available, the survivors had to find a way to sustain themselves. They rationed the few candy bars they had and relied on melted snow for hydration. However, as the days turned into weeks, their supplies dwindled, and starvation became a looming threat.

Facing the reality of their situation, the survivors made a courageous and controversial decision: they resorted to cannibalism. It was a decision born out of desperation and the unyielding will to survive. By consuming the flesh of those who had not survived the crash, they were able to sustain themselves physically and mentally.

6. The Decision to Seek Help

After nearly two months of struggling to survive, the survivors faced a difficult decision. With no rescue in sight, they realized that their only hope of survival was to find help themselves. Two brave young men, Nando Parrado and Roberto Canessa, volunteered to trek through the treacherous mountains in search of civilization.

Their journey was arduous and filled with peril. With no maps or proper equipment, they relied solely on their determination and the support of each other. They braved freezing temperatures, treacherous terrain, and the constant threat of avalanches. Their resilience and unwavering spirit were truly commendable.

Parrado and Canessa
Parrado and Canessa

7. Navigating the Andes

Parrado and Canessa embarked on an arduous journey, enduring freezing temperatures and avalanches. Without proper equipment or mountaineering experience, they relied on their determination and the support of each other. They faced numerous setbacks along the way, but they refused to give up.

Finally, after a grueling ten-day trek, they encountered a Chilean shepherd who alerted authorities about the survivors’ location. Help was finally on its way.

8. The Miraculous Rescue

On December 20, 1972, 72 days after the crash, a search and rescue team located the remaining survivors. It was a moment of immense joy and relief. The world was astonished to learn that these brave individuals had defied all odds and survived against unimaginable circumstances.

Miraculously, out of the initial 45 passengers, 16 individuals emerged alive from the Andes. Their story captivated the world, as people marveled at their resilience, unity, and determination to survive.

In conclusion, “Society Of The Snow” is a gripping Netflix movie inspired by a true story of survival, resilience, and the human spirit. The movie explores themes of societal order, identity, and the courage to embrace change. So, the next time you watch a film that leaves you wondering if it’s based on real events, remember that sometimes truth can be stranger than fiction. Stay curious and keep exploring the fascinating stories that unfold around us every day!

Also Read: ‘Society of the Snow’ Recap and Ending Explained