LOS DOMINGOS (SUNDAYS)
Recommended. Catchy dance rhythms open this unusual drama from Spain, a lofty and joyful religious song closes it which wonderfully sums up the protagonist's transition. The secular world isn't attractive: bank loans, family fights over inheritance, a scheming aunt, all youngsters' entertainment connected to sex, whether singing or bragging about it. It's all realistically depicted, from life-like conversations to a diversity of characters and their responses to the extraordinary decision of the 17-year-old. Among some memorable lines in this drama you're told that "Jesus puts desires in your heart" - this is when I actually paused the movie to reflect on my own life decisions, when you look at your own, sometimes unexpected, but morally driven choices it all starts making sense. The Jeremiah 10:23 quote: "It is not up to the man who walks to direct his steps" reverberates through the movie. Putting your fate in the hands of God is a totally different approach to life than atheists'. The way the girl's aunt sees it, nuns hide away from the world scared. At the same time it's her who, subtly yet manipulatively, denies the girl her freedom of choice. The film also insightfully and realistically depicts how nuns live which made me ponder whether I could accept and even want such a lifestyle. While I quickly came to the conclusion I couldn't, the point of no wastefulness really appeals to me - it's so environmentlly friendly. On the other hand, it also highlights how we're spoilt by excess every day and the big question is: can we do without it all? Sadly this Spanish Oscar candidate wasn't lucky enough to be shortlisted.
Reviewed from the distributor's screener, cinematic reception might differ.
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