It is based on the true story of American journalist Charles Horman, who disappeared in the bloody aftermath of the US-backed Chilean coup of 1973 that deposed the democratically elected socialist President Salvador Allende. The film was banned in Chile during Pinochet's dictatorship, even though neither Chile nor Pinochet are ever mentioned by name (although the Chilean cities of Viña del Mar and Santiago are). The film opens with Costa-Gavras' statement that the events of the film are true. Set largely during the days and weeks following Horman's disappearance, the movie depicts his father and wife searching to determine his fate. It is based on a book that was first published under the title “The Execution of Charles Horman: An American Sacrifice” (1978) by Thomas HauserWon 1 Oscar. Another 9 wins & 15 nominations.
