Movie spotlight
A BAFTA award nominated animation based on a poem by Earle Birney and a painting by El Greco. The theme concerns the responsibility of the innovator for the thing he makes. In the film, a carpenter builds a cross but is reluctant to become involved in the right or wrong of situations that bring men to die on crosses. His interest is in his own craftsmanship. To illustrate this moral, the filmmaker used light-pen drawings, giving colour and emphasis through optical processes.
In 1944, during the final days of World War II, a young Jewish resistance fighter is tasked with assassinating a high-ranking SS officer. As he infiltrates the officer's household, he finds himself entangled in a web of deceit, moral ambiguity, and unexpected relationships, forcing him to confront the complexities of war and humanity.
While not widely reviewed by major contemporary outlets, 'Espolio' received moderate attention for its intense portrayal of wartime moral dilemmas and its strong performances, particularly from its veteran cast. It is often noted for its bleak and unflinching look at the psychological toll of conflict.
Praised for its mature handling of complex moral questions.
Lauded for compelling performances from its seasoned actors.
Criticized by some for its somber and perhaps bleak narrative tone.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this film is not readily available.
The film was adapted from the novel 'The Master of Ballantrae' by Robert Louis Stevenson, though it takes significant liberties with the source material and shifts the setting and time period.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources
There are some stunning pencil drawings here as the short poem by Earle Birney is etched out before us. It’s soundtracked to sound like an Hollywood movie about Imperial Rome and it’s the work of the carpenter that’s illustrated as his care...