"On the Go" (Spanish title: Secaderos) is a 2023 Spanish drama directed by Julia de Castro and María G. Royo. The film intricately weaves together two seemingly separate narratives that gradually converge, exploring themes of generational differences, tradition versus modernity, and the search for identity in rural Spain. Set against the backdrop of tobacco drying sheds (secaderos in Spanish) in Granada, Andalusia, the film contrasts the experiences of teenagers in the present day with the memories of older generations who worked in the tobacco industry in the past.
Plot Summary
The film follows two parallel storylines that eventually intertwine. In the present, Nieves and Elena, two teenage girls, navigate their summer in a rural Spanish town. They grapple with typical teenage experiences, including friendship, burgeoning romance, and the uncertainties of their future. Interspersed with their story are fragmented memories of past tobacco workers, particularly women, who toiled in the now-abandoned secaderos. These memories, often dreamlike and poetic, reveal the hardships and social dynamics of the tobacco industry in previous generations. As the film progresses, connections between the past and present emerge, suggesting the enduring impact of history and tradition on the lives of the current generation. The narrative unfolds slowly, emphasizing atmosphere and character development over a fast-paced plot, inviting viewers to contemplate the cyclical nature of life and labor in this rural community.
Director's Vision
Julia de Castro and María G. Royo, in their directorial debut, aimed to create a film that bridges the gap between generations and explores the changing landscape of rural Spain. Their vision was to capture the essence of a place marked by its tobacco-drying past while observing the lives of contemporary teenagers growing up in this environment. They sought to create a dialogue between past and present, highlighting both the continuities and the shifts in social and economic realities. The directors employed a non-linear narrative structure and evocative imagery to create a poetic and atmospheric film that encourages reflection on memory, identity, and the passage of time. They also emphasized the importance of sound design and the natural environment to immerse the audience in the world of the film.
Themes
"On the Go" explores several key themes:
Generational Divide: The film juxtaposes the lives of contemporary teenagers with the memories of past generations, highlighting the differences in their experiences and perspectives while also suggesting underlying connections.
Tradition vs. Modernity: Set in a rural Spanish town with a rich history of tobacco farming, the film explores the tension between traditional ways of life and the encroachment of modern influences.
Memory and History: The fragmented memories of past tobacco workers serve as a powerful reminder of the region's history and its impact on the present.
Rural Identity: The film delves into the formation of identity in a rural setting, examining how place, history, and community shape the lives of its inhabitants.
Female Experience: The film gives voice to the often-unheard experiences of women in both past and present rural Spain, particularly in relation to labor and social expectations.
Key Success Factors
The film has been recognized for:
Atmospheric and Poetic Style: The film's evocative imagery, sound design, and non-linear narrative contribute to its unique and memorable cinematic experience.
Exploration of Relevant Themes: The film tackles universal themes of identity, memory, and generational change within a specific cultural context, resonating with audiences and critics.
Strong Performances from Emerging Actors: The young cast delivers natural and compelling performances, adding to the film's authenticity.
Festival Recognition: Selection and awards at prestigious film festivals have brought critical attention and wider visibility to the film.
Summary (Short)
"On the Go" is a Spanish drama that interweaves the lives of contemporary teenagers in rural Spain with the fragmented memories of past tobacco workers, exploring themes of generational differences, tradition, memory, and rural identity in a poetic and atmospheric style.
Awards, and Nominations (IMDB); 6 wins & 6 nominations
Critical Reception
Critical reception for "On the Go" has been generally positive, with reviewers praising:
Unique Narrative Structure: The film's interweaving of past and present storylines has been lauded as innovative and thought-provoking.
Atmospheric Direction: The directorial duo's ability to create a strong sense of place and atmosphere has been consistently highlighted.
Visual Poetry: Critics have noted the film's beautiful cinematography and poetic visual style.
Exploration of Memory and Time: The film's meditative approach to memory and the passage of time has been appreciated for its depth and nuance.
Production (Summary)
"On the Go" is a Spanish production, filmed in Granada, Andalusia, Spain. The production emphasizes capturing the authentic atmosphere of the rural setting and the tobacco drying sheds.
Production Companies: Jur Jur Productions
Distribution and Sales Companies: Outplay
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt21060166/
Link Review: https://thefilmstage.com/locarno-review-on-the-go-is-a-joyfully-messy-road-movie-with-sex-and-fertility-on-the-brain/
About movie: https://www.mpmpremium.com/catalogue/on-the-go
Link to watch: https://www.amazon.de/-/en/Mar%C3%ADa-Gis%C3%A9le-Royo/dp/B0DSSYCHF1/ (Germany)
Why You Should Watch Movie
"On the Go" is a film worth watching for several reasons:
Unique and Evocative Storytelling: The film's non-linear narrative and poetic style offer a refreshing and engaging cinematic experience.
Exploration of Spanish Rural Life: It provides a nuanced and atmospheric portrayal of rural Spain, moving beyond typical tourist representations.
Thought-Provoking Themes: The film delves into universal themes of memory, identity, and generational change, prompting reflection and discussion.
Visually Stunning: The cinematography and art direction create a beautiful and immersive visual world.
Festival Acclaim: Its recognition at film festivals indicates its artistic merit and quality.
Why You Should Watch Movie
Experience a unique and poetic cinematic style.
Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of rural Spain.
Reflect on themes of memory, identity, and generational change.
Appreciate the film's visual beauty and evocative sound design.
Discover a critically acclaimed independent film.
Final Verdict
"On the Go" is a compelling and poetic debut from Julia de Castro and María G. Royo. Its atmospheric storytelling, exploration of relevant themes, and strong visual style make it a noteworthy entry in contemporary Spanish cinema. Recommended for viewers who appreciate independent films that are both artistically rich and thought-provoking, and those interested in nuanced portrayals of rural life and generational dynamics.
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