Placido

Don Dámaso, a wealthy and pious man, arrives in a small town to help organize a charitable bazaar for the poor. However, his true intention is to install a new, more lucrative bishop. He hires a down-on-his-luck theatre actor, "Rocamora", to play the role of 'Don Eleuterio', a humble saintly figure, to sway public opinion and the current bishop. Rocamora, desperate for money, reluctantly agrees, but the chaotic and absurd events that unfold begin to blur the lines between his performance and reality, leading to unexpected consequences.

Placido is widely regarded as a masterpiece of Spanish cinema, celebrated for its sharp social satire and darkly humorous critique of hypocrisy and corruption within religious and societal institutions. Critics praised Berlanga's masterful direction, the biting screenplay, and the superb performances, particularly from Pepe Isbert and Cassencho. It remains a powerful and relevant film that exposed the prevailing social injustices in Spain during its time.

• A biting satire on religious hypocrisy and social injustice.

• Brilliantly directed with a darkly humorous and critical edge.

• An essential film for understanding Spanish cinema and society of the era.

Google audience: Audience reviews highlight the film's enduring satirical power and its ability to provoke thought on societal and religious hypocrisy. Many appreciate its dark humor and the effective critique of corrupt institutions presented through absurd situations.

Nominated for the Palme d'Or at the 1962 Cannes Film Festival.

The character of Don Dámaso was inspired by a real-life figure known for his ostentatious piety and charitable activities, which masked a more self-serving agenda.