In 1976, a Mexican film titled 'Survive!' dared to recount the harrowing tale of the Andes plane crash, predating later adaptations like 'Alive!' and the recent Netflix hit 'Society of the Snow.' However, the film faced severe criticism for its graphic portrayal of the survivors' struggle and accusations of exploitation and falsification of events.

The infamous 1972 Andes tragedy involved a Uruguayan Air Force plane crash in the mountain range, with 16 presumed dead passengers miraculously surviving for over two months in extreme conditions. The latest adaptation, 'Society of the Snow,' based on Pablo Vierci's 2008 book, has become a global sensation on Netflix, currently the platform's most-viewed film worldwide.

'Society of the Snow' has offered a fresh perspective on the calamitous event, showcasing the survivors, predominantly amateur rugby players, and their desperate actions, including resorting to cannibalism. The controversial detail sparked widespread outrage when first revealed, with newspapers publishing gruesome photos and headlines expressing shock and condemnation.

The 1976 film 'Survive!' directed by René Cardona, a prominent figure in Mexican cinema, faced its share of challenges during production. Tensions arose, leading to defamation threats against survivor Roberto Canessa, who accused the filmmakers of "piracy." Despite controversies, the film, produced by Cardona's son, featured graphic scenes and became a commercial success, exceeding $1 million in revenue.

The movie's trailer focused on the central theme of cannibalism, presenting viewers with stark visuals and unsettling moments from the survivors' struggle. The film's approach, blending horror elements with religious undertones, depicted the survivors evaluating the morality of their actions, accompanied by biblical quotes and religious symbols.

While 'Survive!' eventually faded into obscurity, later adaptations like 'Alive' in 1993 garnered more attention, adopting Piers Paul Read's book and receiving technical guidance from survivor Nando Parrado. Survivors criticized the Mexican film, with one describing it as "rubbish" and another as "very bad." Despite its controversial reputation, some acknowledged a degree of respect in its portrayal.

Film critic Antonio José Navarro sees 'Survive!' as a more authentic depiction than the later Hollywood adaptation, arguing that it addresses the fundamental question of how civilized individuals cope with the extreme circumstances of resorting to cannibalism. Navarro believes the film provides a direct, honest, and human exploration of the survivors' ordeal.

The recent success of 'Society of the Snow' on Netflix, directed by Juan Antonio Bayona, marks a more nuanced and mature portrayal of the events. Collaborating closely with survivors during filming, Bayona's adaptation emphasizes the day-by-day suffering of those who fought for survival, avoiding sensationalism and focusing on the deeper meaning of the survivors' experiences.

'Society of the Snow' seems to bring closure to the survivors, with many still alive today. The film's thorough recreation of the events, coupled with the survivors' collaboration, offers a more transcendental and mature perspective on their painful experiences. While controversies surround the portrayal of cannibalism in these films, they also prompt reflection on the complex choices faced by individuals in dire situations.