Harmony

In a strict Catholic boarding school for boys, the arrival of a new, charismatic priest disrupts the established order. His unconventional teaching methods and focus on humanistic values begin to stir questions and awaken desires among the students, particularly the sensitive and artistic Juan. As the boys grapple with burgeoning emotions and the rigid doctrines of the church, their world is thrown into turmoil, leading to a dramatic confrontation with authority.

Carlos Saura's 'Harmony' was a notable entry in Spanish cinema, exploring themes of repression, sexuality, and religious dogma within an institutional setting. While some critics lauded its artistic direction and bold exploration of sensitive subject matter, others found its pacing deliberate and its message somber. It garnered attention for its challenging themes and Saura's signature visual style, resonating with audiences interested in arthouse and socially conscious films.

• Praised for its atmospheric direction and the exploration of adolescent awakening.

• Noted for its critique of institutional repression and religious hypocrisy.

• Some found the film's overt symbolism and dramatic tension to be heavy-handed.

Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the film's evocative atmosphere and its courageous tackling of taboo subjects for its time, though some found its somber tone and ambiguous ending to be less satisfying.

Nominated for the Golden Palm at the 1978 Cannes Film Festival.

The film's director, Carlos Saura, was known for his use of music and dance in his films, often reflecting socio-political commentary, which is evident in 'Harmony' through its use of choral singing and dramatic staging.