The children of the sea

"El Mar"

I've never seen a movie so gory and disturbing as this one. Actually when I saw it I ended up having a nightmare. Well if you're into looking for something not Hollywoody films then this one is for you.



The story revolves around the three childhood friends; Ramallo(underground accomplice played by Roger Casamajor),



Manuel(religiously devoted played by Bruno Bergonzini)



and Francisca(Antonia Torrens as a nun that harbors the secrets of the three). Set during the Spanish Civil War, their lives were marked by a vengeful slaying of another child and they have carried this secret until they were adults.






The three reunited after a few years in a hospital for the care of tuberculosis. Where their lives have entwined again in desperation to find deliverance from its horrors. A particular interest here is that Manuel is trying to repress his sexual desires for Ramallo. He turns to religion in order to avert it, but to much dismay. (Does this sound a bell???) While Ramallo is particularly obsessed to be in the beach, hence the title "El Mar". Metaphorically signifying that the torment in our lives will one day find its calmness.

Although the casting was not that remarkable, their performance have suited the strange but beautiful story. The cinematography and sound effects succeeded to evoke you the feeling that there's hope to look forward to.