Movie of the Day: Nina (2024) by Andrea Jaurrieta
- dailyentertainment95
- Apr 9
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 10
Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/es/pelicula/nina-2024 (Spain)
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt13239062/
Link Review: https://cineuropa.org/en/newsdetail/458124/
About movie: https://filmaxinternationalsales.com/film/nina
Detailed Summary
Nina (Patricia López Arnaiz), a 45-year-old woman, returns to the coastal town where she grew up after leaving abruptly 30 years prior to pursue her acting dreams. Her unexpected return is driven by a singular objective: to exact revenge on Pedro (Darío Grandinetti), a famous writer who was once revered in the town but who Nina believes ruined her life when she was 16. Nina carries a shotgun with her, determined to confront Pedro, to whom the town now pays homage. However, her return to her place of origin and her reunion with Blas, a childhood friend, along with the resurfacing of old memories, begin to make her question if revenge is the only path forward. The film explores the complexities of abuse, the limits of consent, and the potential consequences of seeking vengeance.
Plot Summary
After 30 years away, Nina returns to her hometown with a shotgun to take revenge on a celebrated writer who she feels destroyed her life as a teenager. Her return and reconnecting with her past make her question if revenge is the only answer.
Director's Vision
Andrea Jaurrieta aimed to explore the theme of abuse through Nina's story, reflecting on the limits of consent from an active feminine point of view, rather than from victimization. She wanted to delve into the psychological and social complexity of such relationships and make people reflect on whether vengeance is a true solution, suggesting that violence should not be fought with violence. Jaurrieta describes the film as a contemporary western.
Themes
Revenge: Nina's primary motivation is to avenge the harm she suffered.
Trauma and Abuse: The film explores the long-lasting impact of past abuse on Nina's life.
Consent: The director explicitly stated the film aims to reflect on where the limits of consent lie.
The Past vs. The Present: Nina's return forces her to confront her memories and how they shape her present self.
Redemption and Forgiveness: As Nina reconnects with her past, the possibility of choosing a path other than revenge emerges.
Key Success Factors
Patricia López Arnaiz's Performance: Critics have lauded López Arnaiz's spectacular performance as Nina, highlighting her ability to portray a woman driven by rage and pain.
Atmospheric Rural Setting: The coastal town serves as a compelling backdrop for Nina's internal and external conflict.
Blending of Genres: The film effectively combines elements of drama and thriller, with a touch of the western genre.
Exploration of Complex Themes: The movie tackles sensitive and relevant social issues like abuse and revenge.
Summary Short
A woman returns to her hometown after 30 years with a shotgun to seek revenge on a man who harmed her in her youth, but her return forces her to reconsider if vengeance is the only way to heal.
Awards and Nominations
Patricia López Arnaiz was nominated for Best Actress at the Platino Awards in 2025. The film also participated in the 42nd Torino Film Festival.
Critics Reception
The film has received generally positive reviews from critics:
Rotten Tomatoes: Reports that 83% of 6 critics' reviews are positive, with an average rating of 7.2/10.
Cinemanía: Rated the film 4 out of 5 stars, praising Patricia López Arnaiz's performance.
HobbyConsolas: Gave the film 86 points ('very good'), citing the director's control of tempo, the film's commitment, and the performances.
El Mundo: Gave the film 4 stars, noting Jaurrieta's approach to a story tinged with melodrama.
Reviews
Critics have praised the film's intense atmosphere and strong performances:
IMDb user reviews note the enjoyable and intense nature of the thriller, highlighting the solid directing and acting, particularly Patricia López Arnaiz's portrayal of Nina and Darío Grandinetti's performance.
Wikipedia's summary of reviews indicates praise for López Arnaiz's performance as spectacular and for Jaurrieta's control of the film's tempo.
Production
"Nina" is a Spanish film directed and written by Andrea Jaurrieta, starring Patricia López Arnaiz, Darío Grandinetti, and Aina Picarolo. It was produced by Icónica Producciones, BTeam Prods, Irusoin, Nina La Película AIE, and Lasai Producciones, with a runtime of 105 minutes.
Production Companies
Icónica Producciones (Spain)
BTeam Prods (Spain)
Irusoin (Spain)
Nina La Película AIE (Spain)
Lasai Producciones (Spain)
Sales Companies
Filmax International Sales is handling the international sales for "Nina".
Distribution Companies
BTeam Pictures distributed the film theatrically in Spain.
Theatrical Release
The film premiered at the Málaga Film Festival on March 4, 2024, and was released theatrically in Spain on May 10, 2024. It also screened at the Torino Film Festival.
Why to Recommend This Movie
Compelling Revenge Thriller: The film offers a slow-cooking and intense narrative with a strong central performance.
Explores Complex Themes: It delves into mature and relevant issues of abuse and the nature of justice.
Strong Performances: Patricia López Arnaiz delivers a spectacular and memorable performance.
Why to Watch Movie
For a Thought-Provoking Story: The film encourages viewers to reflect on the themes of revenge and healing.
To Experience Contemporary Spanish Cinema: It showcases the talent and storytelling from Spain.
For a Well-Crafted Thriller with Depth: The film combines suspense with a nuanced exploration of its characters.
What Movie Trend Film is Following
Revenge Thrillers: The central plot revolves around Nina's quest for vengeance.
Rural Settings in Thrillers: The coastal town provides an atmospheric and somewhat isolated backdrop for the unfolding drama.
Female-Led Thrillers: Nina is the driving force of the narrative, seeking justice for past trauma.
What Big Social Trend is Following
Increased Awareness of Trauma and Abuse: The film engages with the ongoing social conversation surrounding the impact of abuse on individuals and the complexities of seeking justice.
Challenging Societal Power Structures: The story touches on themes of a powerful man facing accountability for past actions.
Final Verdict
"Nina" is an enjoyable and intense thriller that effectively explores the complexities of revenge and the lasting impact of trauma. Anchored by a powerful performance from Patricia López Arnaiz and set against a compelling rural backdrop, the film offers a thought-provoking and visually well-crafted cinematic experience.
Recommendations for Film Makers
Focus on Strong Central Characters: Nina's compelling journey drives the entire film.
Use Atmospheric Settings to Enhance Narrative: The coastal town plays a significant role in creating the film's mood.
Tackle Difficult Themes with Sensitivity and Depth: The film effectively addresses the sensitive topic of abuse.
Recommendations for Movie Industry
Support Female-Driven Narratives in Thrillers: "Nina" demonstrates the power of a female-led revenge story.
Recognize Talent in International Cinema: Andrea Jaurrieta showcases a distinct directorial vision.
Provide Platforms for Films that Engage with Socially Relevant Issues: Movies like "Nina" contribute to important conversations.
Comments