Introduction"Barrios Altos" is an appealing Spanish drama film released in 1987. Directed by Félix Rotaeta and written by Joaquín Oristrell and Félix Rotaeta, the movie revolves around the mysteries and eccentricities of the city of Madrid, revealing the dark underbelly of its society. The title 'Barrios Altos' translates to 'High Neighborhoods', a fitting description of the film's setting.
PlotThe narrative starts with Marisa and her horny teenager daughter Susi, as they show up in Madrid with nothing but a travel suitcase loaded with money. They are on the run, and the film gradually unfolds the factor behind their abrupt moving. The central plot expands as the mother-daughter due start a new life in Madrid's Barrios Altos, where they face a variety of confusing and intriguing scenarios.
Characters and DevelopmentThis film provides a deep insight into the lives of the characters who resided in Barrios Altos, their dreams, their struggles and their efforts to endure in the city. The main characters are Marisa and her daughter Susi. Marisa is a strong, willed woman, undaunted by the problems she deals with. She gets included with regional petty bad guys like Luis and others. Susi, on the other hand, dives into the seedy world of clubs and drugs, losing the sense of right and incorrect at the same time.
Thematic Elements"Barrios Altos" carries a strong thematic components, grasping the audience with its dark representation of society. It showcases the grim realities of big cities, touching subjects like criminal activity, prostitution, substance abuse, and mental disorder. It also explores mother-daughter dynamics, checking out how the relationship comes to grips with the pressures of life in the Barrios Altos.
Performances and ReceptionThe efficiencies of the main actors Carmen Maura as Marisa and Ángela Molina as Susi were admired with much appreciation, their engaging portrayal of the characters bringing the story to life. The film didn't shy away from presenting the severe realities of life, and the vibrant performance of the cast just added to its gritty realism.
Though the film didn't receive any notable honors, it was popular by critics and film lovers for its bold outlook. It is typically valued for its unique storytelling, thought-provoking characters, and the method it captures the essence of Madrid's high neighborhoods.
Conclusion"Barrios Altos" goes beyond the exterior of Madrid's grandeur and dives into the gritty and intricate society that comprises the underbelly of this gorgeous city. It is a captivating representation of survival, unveiling the dark corners of society while preserving a strong sense of human strength. Despite a rather heavy style, this 1987 Spanish drama manages to provide a level of intrigue and suspense that stays continuous throughout the movie. The performances are incredibly genuine, developing a raw and believable world that effectively hooks the viewers. All in all, "Barrios Altos" is a scintillating watch, especially for viewers who have an interest in deep, thought-provoking narratives.
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