Ander

Ander is a captivating and emotionally resonant film from the year 2009, directed by Robert Castón. The film features a remarkable cast, led by Josean Bengoetxea in the lead role, with commendable performances by Eriz Alberdi and Cristhian Esquivel as well. In this intriguing tale of desire, identity, acceptance, and the complexities of human emotions, the movie has been professionally crafted with a sensitive perspective on the unusual circumstance of Ander's life.

Set against the imposing backdrop of the Basque countryside, the movie follows the story of Ander, portrayed by Bengoetxea, a middle-aged man who has dedicated his entire life to work on his family's farm. His existence is characterized by a strict routine, monotonous chores, and a strained relationship with his aged mother and unmarried sister, who also live on the farm. He leads a life of solitude and suppression, where emotions are not openly discussed, and individual wants are often pushed aside to cater to the needs of the family.

However, one day, an accident hinders Ander's daily routine, and he is compelled to hire a Peruvian immigrant, Jose, played by Cristhian Esquivel, as a helping hand on the farm. Jose's arrival triggers a series of changes in Ander's life. Suddenly, free from his daily chores and constraints, Ander starts unraveling certain feelings and desires he himself was unaware of. Realization dons upon him as he discovers aspects about himself and begins to question the life he has been leading.

Bengoetxea's performance as Ander, is commendable, capturing a subtle transformation of his character, from a reserved, rustic man to someone who discovers and addresses his deepest feelings. Alberdi and Esquivel have also given performances that claimed critical appreciation, portraying the roles of Ander's conservative family and the catalyst of his life's turmoil respectively.

The film is enriched with magnificent imagery of the Basque countryside, which adds a profound layer to the story while contrasting the stark lives of its characters along with their desires and emotions. The superb cinematography not just puts forth beautiful visuals, but also successfully manifests the internal landscapes of the characters, shrouded with different shades of human emotions. The rural setting adds more depth to the storyline and accurately reflects the characters' isolation and conflicts.

Ander is unique in its theme and stands besides many mainstream narratives. The story's strength lies in its detailed examination of human emotions, muddled up due to societal norms and expectations. Homosexuality is presented as part of the natural spectrum of human sexual desires and not as its central focus. Instead, the director valiantly explores how these desires surface and manifest when the protagonist is freed from his customary burdens.

The screenplay is immersive, unraveling the inner turbulence Ander experiences slowly yet impactfully. The pacing of the film ensures there are no unnecessary dramatics, maintaining a sense of realism throughout. The relationships between the characters, their tangled emotions, and the gradual realization of self-identity are depicted with surreal honesty and subtlety.

Dialogue in the film is sparse but impactful, relying more on visual storytelling. Moreover, the dialogues are bilingual - Basque and Spanish, enhancing the authenticity of the characters and their background. This in addition to the film's ability to minimize elements that could deviate attention from the main narrative, immerses the audience into Ander's world.

To conclude, the film Ander can best be described as a masterful exploration of life's complexities and human emotions. Its strength lies in its subtle portrayal of characters, picturesque landscapes, and an eloquently drafted narrative that demands attention. It exhibits a profound reflection on self-discovery, acceptance, and the courage to break free from antiquated societal norms. The film asks its viewers to empathize with its characters and their internal struggles, making it an enchanting cinematic experience for anyone seeking something beyond conventional storytelling. So, whether you are a fan of dramatic narratives or someone who appreciates an understated exploration of human life, the movie Ander is a must-watch.