El calentito

I saw this movie while living in Spain. I was only able to go to the movies once a week, but loved it so much that i went back the next. It deals with such an interesting period of social conflict in Spain, and is absolutely hilarious at the same time. As it is a Spanish film, some background is useful of the terrible occurrences known in Spain as 22 F. It is wonderfully done. It contains wonderful music, cinematography, and plot/theme developments. It focuses on the cultural period in Spain right after the dictatorship (early 80s) and deals with a girl faced with many choices about herself and about her own personal freedoms. She is breaking away from a restrictive society, yet having conflict with her love of and loyalty to her family. It is rare that a comedy so funny deals with such a strong theme in such a strong way.

Sara is a good-family girl, she has never been with a man, does not drinks, does not take drugs...But following her love, she enters in "el Calentito" a pub where the group "las Siux" is singing. The night will end terribly, but she will meet the singers and, due to some coincidences, she becomes part of it. There, she will know about sex&drugs&rock&roll; discovering a new world in a hilarious way. They are going to do their first big concert, but, the same day, (22-F), there is a a rebellion against Government. What will be their future? It is quite absurd and funny, and, which is unusual, it reflects quite well the collision of cultures of the moment (the 80's in Spain), the conservatism against the "movida". The film seeks to make you enjoy your time and it does it quite well, bad acting, worse directing, but, well funny and entertaining. If you want to laugh a little, this is not a bad film, but well, it will not pass to history of cinema...

When first viewing the official website, I was slightly dubious as to what I should expect due to the rather fluff visuals, but after obtaining a copy from DVDGO online store from Spain, I was really delighted by this sparkling little jewel. The story line presents facts and fiction to create a colorful, playful comedy drama from eighties Spain. Complete with a segment from Almodovar and MacNamara performing a song from Laberinto De Pasiones spliced in to add just the right spice to continued this period piece that is presented with sparks flying and heels raising. Be on the lookout for this gem at your local theater or rent it when it becomes available, and you'll make just find yourself heading out to the local club scene sporting a nun's habit and shouting LIBERTAD for all the world to hear!