Lasa & Zabala

Lasa & Zabala is a riveting criminal drama film that brilliantly displays an unnerving chapter in Spain's recent history, shedding light on a high-profile case which impacted all corners of the Spanish society and political landscape during the turbulent 1980s.

Directed by Pablo Malo and released in 2014, the movie stars renowned actors Unax Ugalde and Francesc Orella in the pivotal roles. It is a compelling blend of historical drama and crime thriller, merging factual events to fictional storytelling prowess of the creators, leading to an emotional and enthralling narrative.

The movie's title, Lasa & Zabala, originates from the names of two ETA members, Joxean Lasa and Joxi Zabala, portrayed by Unax Ugalde and Cristian Merchan respectively. They are young and idealistic characters deeply embroiled in the Basque separatist movement against Spain. In 1983, both men went missing, their fate becoming a mystery that fuelled a great deal of speculation and concern. This incident is the stepping stone for the events that further unfold in the narrative.

Francesc Orella splendidly plays Inaxio Oiarbide, a dogged lawyer who takes up their case, investigating the disappearances in spite of considerable obstacles, obstructions and threats from those keen to keep the truth hidden. Meanwhile, the narrative frequently jumps back in time to portray the harrowing experiences of Lasa and Zabala during their time in custody, bringing to light the brutal torture methods employed.

Much more than a simple portrayal of events, Lasa & Zabala equally serves as an exploration of the heavy toll of political struggle, showcasing the human cost beyond the headlines and the official reports. The director freshly presents a narrative of individuals trapped within larger national movements, each with their own motivations, demands and often with devastating consequences.

Unax Ugalde delivers a riveting performance as Joxean Lasa, convincingly depicting the character's youthful enthusiasm, fear, and despair as he is subjected to the brutal consequences of his actions. Francesc Orella shines as the determined, duty-bound lawyer Inaxio, a figure who would not step back in revealing the truth. His portrayal of a man progressing in countering the threats and finding the truth behind the facade is riveting. The supporting cast, including Oriol Vila, Ricard Sales, and Josean Bengoetxea, also give compelling performances that add depth to the movie.

Although Lasa, Zabala and their suffering form the emotional core of this film, the main focus is the fight for justice and the constant battle against the corruption, lies, and establishment obfuscation that marred the early years of Spain’s democracy. The complex examination of the legal and political machinery of the state in relation to the investigation flows smoothly throughout the narrative, making the film a powerful social and political commentary.

The backdrop of Spain and its diverse landscapes serves as an apt setting for the narrative. The cinematography cleverly uses locations, such as the urban baseness of Madrid and the green landscapes of the Basque region, to emphasize the contrast of worlds our characters inhabit. The well-curated soundtrack complements the narrative, adding the required tension and emotion to crucial scenes.

In conclusion, Lasa & Zabala is an intense and poignant political drama that brilliantly weaves together history and suspense. With memorable performances from its ensemble cast, this film successfully unravels a high-profile case's intricate facets and engages the audience throughout its runtime. It serves as an eye-opening account of a dark chapter in Spain's history, bringing to light the cruelties suffered by two young men during their fight for a separate Basque country. The film is indeed a must-watch for those interested in political dramas and historical narratives.