Orozco the Embalmer (2001) is a profoundly unsettling documentary that immerses viewers in the grim reality of death in one of Colombia's most impoverished and violent neighborhoods. Directed by Kiyotaka Tsurisaki, this Japanese-Colombian co-production follows the daily work of Orozco, an embalmer who operates in a morgue where bodies arrive with alarming frequency due to the extreme violence and poverty of the area. The film offers no narration or judgment, instead presenting a raw, observational look at Orozco's matter-of-fact approach to preparing the dead, often victims of brutal murders, accidents, or neglect.

The documentary's power lies in its unflinching realism and stark contrast between Orozco's clinical, almost mundane routine and the horrific circumstances of the deaths he deals with. It functions as both a horror film, due to its graphic and disturbing content, and a profound social commentary on the human cost of systemic poverty and violence. The cinematography is deliberately raw, enhancing the feeling of being an intimate, uncomfortable witness to a hidden world.

Viewers should watch Orozco the Embalmer for its unique and courageous perspective. It is not entertainment but a challenging, thought-provoking experience that confronts mortality, societal decay, and the resilience of those who work in its shadow. The film's strength is its refusal to look away, making it a significant, if difficult, work in the documentary and horror genres.