A new film by director Carla Simón explores the sociopolitical and familial
tensions of a family of farmers, the Solés, in present-day Spain. The Solés
struggle to maintain control of their land as their neighbors refuse to honor a
verbal contract to work on it, while also protesting the Spanish government's
changes that squeeze out profit margins from small farmers.
Through seemingly casual conversations and glimpses of body language, Simón
conveys the various sociopolitical elements and familial tensions, leaving the
audience to draw their own conclusions. While low-key,
Alcarràs is a compelling and unique portrayal of traditional ways of life being
confronted with the demands of modernity, and shows great potential for Simón as
a filmmaker. |