Era outra vez

This unusual drama documents the tenth anniversary college graduation reunion of a group of Spanish yuppies. To be more precise, the characters are actually Galicians (from this autonomous region of northern Spain). It is unique in two ways. First, it is the first ever movie from Spain, adhering to the "Dogma" movement rules. Secondly, it is in the Galician language, closer to Portuguese linguistically than Spanish. I saw the version dubbed in Spanish at the recent Hispanic Film Festival here, and found it quite impressive, even in this dubbed (and English-subtitled) version.

But, regardless of the innovations, this film is good AND entertaining on the surface, regardless of its unique features. I only learned of these, as the film opens with a copy of the "Dogma Manifesto" and consequently the opening credits highlight the support from "Galician TV" and from the government of "the autonomous region of Galicia."

It's a fascinating look at the life of Spanish yuppies in the lush mountain area of Northern Spain. The characters are quite diverse, and well developed through the film, which takes place over the course of one summer weekend. Definitely, a worthwhile film.