BUENOS AIRES, Argentina – The newly released film “Society of the Snow” has reignited interest in the harrowing story of the Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571, which crashed in the Andes Mountains in 1972. The flight, carrying 45 people from Montevideo, Uruguay, to Santiago, Chile, resulted in 16 survivors enduring 72 days of extreme conditions, including avalanches, cold, and starvation. Tragedy struck with the deaths of 12 people as a result of the crash, and 17 more would perish in the following months. However, 16 individuals were eventually rescued from the treacherous terrain.
In the film, one of the survivors, Numa Turcatti, is portrayed by Enzo Vogrincic, who also serves as the narrator. Turcatti, despite not being part of the rugby team that made up almost half of the passengers, became known for his compassion and strength during the ordeal. His character is based on accounts given in Pablo Vierci’s 2008 book “Society of the Snow,” which served as the basis of the movie.
Trapped under an avalanche, Turcatti celebrated his 25th birthday with injuries to his leg that would ultimately lead to his death on December 11, just days before the rescue on December 22. Despite his own injuries, Turcatti was involved in efforts to seek help and was remembered for his selfless actions and caring nature toward his fellow survivors.
Turcatti’s legacy lives on through the impact he left on his fellow survivors, who visited his mother after their rescue and assured her that her son’s death had not been in vain. Actor Enzo Vogrincic visited Turcatti’s family before filming, giving them a chance to share their memories and keep his legacy alive.
Ultimately, “Society of the Snow” sheds light on the incredible story of survival in the face of unimaginable hardship, paying tribute to the strength and resilience displayed by Numa Turcatti and his fellow survivors.