Movie spotlight
Escrito en el agua
Manuel, a teenager from Buenos Aires, accompanies his father, a successful businessman always too busy, to his grandfather's house in the country. The father has some serious problems to solve in the factory he owns there and the boy spends his time with the old man, learns some unpleasant truths about his father's ethics and finally finds out that even his grandad is not what he believed him to be. He finally meets Clara a local girl he establishes a relationship with and who also gives him the opportunity to understand how very few things are stable in life.
Insights
Plot Summary
In a small, isolated village in Mexico, a young boy named Miqueas is born with the ability to communicate with the dead. As he grows, his powers become more pronounced, attracting the attention of both the fearful villagers and a sinister entity that resides in the nearby well. Miqueas must confront his unique gifts and the darkness that surrounds him to protect his family and his community from a supernatural threat.
Critical Reception
While 'Escrito en el agua' (also known as 'The Devil's Backbone' in its English release) did not achieve widespread commercial success upon its initial release, it has since garnered a cult following and critical acclaim. It is praised for its atmospheric horror, blend of supernatural elements with historical context, and Guillermo del Toro's distinctive visual style.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its chilling atmosphere and masterful blend of ghost story with political commentary.
Lauded for Guillermo del Toro's signature visual style and the film's emotional resonance.
Recognized for its unique approach to horror, focusing on suspense and psychological dread over jump scares.
Google audience: Audiences generally praise the film's unique horror elements, its compelling story, and the chilling atmosphere. Many appreciate the deeper themes and Guillermo del Toro's directorial vision, though some find the pacing occasionally slow.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for Best Film at the Goya Awards (Spain) and received several awards at international film festivals.
Fun Fact
Guillermo del Toro originally envisioned 'Escrito en el agua' as part of a trilogy of films about the Spanish Civil War, alongside 'Pan's Labyrinth' and 'The Devil's Backbone'.
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