27 Nights, an Argentinian drama directed by Daniel Hendler and based on the biographical novel by Natalia Zito, tackles the themes of aging, individual freedom, and family dynamics with subtle irony and emotional intensity. The story follows an elderly woman institutionalized in a psychiatric clinic by her daughters.
It’s not just about illness, but about identity, responsibility, and the desire for self-determination. The film, presented at the opening of the San Sebastián Festival, combines commitment and controlled lightness. At the time of writing, it ranks ninth among the most-watched films on Netflix worldwide. Here’s everything you need to know about 27 Nights, from plot and cast to reviews and release date. The trailer is at the bottom of the article.
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27 Nights – all the key details
- Original Title: 27 Noches
- Genre: Drama
- Country of Production: Argentina
- Original Language: Spanish
- Year of Production: 2025
- Duration: 108 minutes
- Director: Daniel Hendler
- Main Cast: Marilú Marini, Daniel Hendler, Humberto Tortonese, Julieta Zylberberg, Paula Grinszpan, Carla Peterson
- Production: La Unión de los Ríos (Argentina)
What 27 Nights is about
Martha Hoffman, an eccentric and wealthy 83-year-old benefactor, is admitted to a psychiatric clinic at the request of her daughters, who claim she suffers from senile dementia. Judicial expert Casares investigates to determine whether Martha is truly ill or has simply chosen to live her last years in absolute freedom, questioning whether the hospitalization is meant to protect her or control her estate. Set in Argentina, the film moves between elegant clinical interiors and domestic spaces reflecting wealth and isolation, exploring generational conflict, the right to autonomy, and the visibility of life’s end. The central question is: who decides what is normal?
The cast
Marilú Marini plays Martha Hoffman, an elderly woman, art patron, and free spirit who is read—and perhaps misunderstood—through the label of illness. Marini is a veteran actress of Argentine-French cinema, known for intense and sophisticated roles.
Daniel Hendler, in addition to directing the film, plays Leandro Casares, the expert tasked with investigating: Hendler, already known as an actor in films like “Lost Embrace,” takes on a dual creative role.
Humberto Tortonese, Julieta Zylberberg, Paula Grinszpan, and Carla Peterson round out the cast, portraying daughters, doctors, and supporting figures in Martha’s apparent liberation. Hendler’s presence both behind the camera and on screen adds a level of creative cohesion.
Our review
At its core, 27 Nights emerges as an exploration of freedom played out against the backdrop of old age, memory, and family power. Director Hendler stages a unique face-to-face between generations: an elderly woman is admitted to a psychiatric clinic by her daughter, and the purpose is not only to confirm an illness but to assess whether behind the apparent “decline” there lies a still vibrant desire for life. The film offers a sharp and empathetic look at the fine line between protection and control, blending irony and melancholy with sensitivity.
The cinematography by Julián Apezteguia helps create an atmosphere that alternates between lightness and gravity, leading to a reflection that unfolds without declaring itself: what does it mean to still live, or perhaps to live freely, when the years take on a social rather than personal dimension?
Is it based on a true story?
Yes, it is a true story: the film is based on the biographical novel “Veintisiete noches” (2021) by Natalia Zito, which in turn draws inspiration from the real case of Argentine artist Natalia Kohen, who was institutionalized in a psychiatric clinic at an advanced age and later freed through a legal dispute.
Release date on Netflix
The film is available on Netflix starting October 17, 2025 ► Watch 27 Nights on Netflix
