For almost 30 years Nando Parrado has played a big part in my life and the GDA story. As a matter of fact, my entire relationship with Nando started with me watching the 1993 movie Alive, which depicted the 1972 Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571 survival and rescue. Now in 2023 there is a new movie premiering called Society of the Snow.

This week the film was selected as a Golden Globe nominee for Best Picture Non-English Language. Since its debut on September 9 at the Venice Film Festival, it has won numerous awards including the Audience Award at the Miami, Middleberg, and Mill Valley Film Festivals.

What is different about this film in comparison to Alive? Aside from the modern movie-making techniques being the obvious difference, the original film told the story of the 16 survivors while Society of the Snow’s director, J.A. Bayona, aimed to also tell the story of those who did not make it home. Most movies are not filmed in chronological order, however, Bayona did so in order to show the progressive physical toll the experience had on the group of rugby players - such as their hair and beard growth along with weight loss.

Bayona shows a meticulous attention to detail regarding the authenticity of the film. Many scenes were shot on mountain locations in severe cold. It was also filmed in Spanish with each actor the age of the real person they are portraying, with some of the cast actually being from Uruguay.

Society of the Snow is a Netflix project. Given the process for Oscar nomination and the stellar cinematography, it will be released in select theaters on December 22. Be sure to check your local theaters’ listings and if you get a chance to see it on the big screen, take it! It will then be available on January 4 worldwide for streaming on Netflix.

Over two decades later, I remain inspired and moved by this story of teamwork, leadership, and the power of the human spirit. It has been my honor to represent Nando Parrado as a keynote speaker and put him on stage to share his incredible story for over 300 audiences. I know first hand the power of this story and am thrilled it will soon be available to people globally on one of the largest streaming platforms in the world.

While the original Alive film will always be a personal favorite of mine because it changed the trajectory of my life and career, I am so excited for this new movie to bring the best survival story in history to the attention of an entirely new generation. As always, Nando speaks on a limited basis. It has been amazing to have so many repeat clients bringing Nando back to their organization this year - which goes to show the timeless impact of his message. 

If you are interested in booking Nando Parrado to speak at your next event, our team would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have in navigating this decision to bring his inspiring story to your stage. Get in touch with us here.

Click here or call 214-420-1999 for keynote inquiries.

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