Volver a empezar

I stumbled upon this film, and was tempted not to watch it when the first minutes were so quiet. However, I was slowly drawn into the life of the characters and the reasons why Antonio had returned to his home town. There was a sensitive balance between what was being communicated in words, and what was being said through the cinematography. This is a film that some will not enjoy. It is a gentle film, where matters of the heart are more important than the acts that made Antonio the remarkable person he is. It is a film full of understatement, with so much being said in so many small ways. The exception is the role of Agustin Gonzalez whose has to be over the top in an old world way and who plays his part to perfection. Have we not all met people like him - obsequious, yet trying so hard to be the perfect concierge? Elena, played by Encarna Paso enters the film out of nowhere for the viewer, but we learn she has been with Antonio for many years, out of sight but not out of mind. Again, playing an understated role to perfection. This is a film for anyone who is in a relationship, and who has a heart for the future.

The film is a life reaffirming statement of one man's choice of his final farewell to the people, places and memories that sum up his life's work. The film works well because of how little is actually stated by the principals. The film's focal point appears to be the indirect answer Antonio gives for the reason for his visit. Antonio recounts the story of his colleague, a professor, who during a lecture looks out the window and starts humming a tune from his native country and his youth after which he suffers a heart attack.

When Elena says her goodbyes, it is evident that she knows about Antonio's health condition.

The final scene with the theme music playing in the background simply restates the life reaffirmation.

This movie is one of my ten favorites. I have seen it so many times and it still touches my heart. The plot is realistic, the director is unique and the actors are really great. If you haven't seen it yet, don't wait any longer. It's a piece of art, it's a true classic.

Besides, the story told is very sensitive and real. It reflects the situation that a man faces when he comes back to his homeland after living abroad many years. All the characters, the photography of this beautiful city, the Real Sporting, and the story, make this movie a real pleasure to watch. I am not surprised that it was awarded the Oscar to the Best Foreign Film in 1982 from the National Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

... but the film is really boring, one of the worst Garci's films (the last one 'The Grandfather' was incredibly good). Garci's is always trying to make us feel depressed and sad, and the way he does is too obvious. I never knew why was it awarded.