Keswick Film Festival

Synopsis

Focus on 1976

Carlos Saura's masterpiece, which, through its unique storytelling and emotional depth, blends the dreamlike, sombre and gothic journey of childhood memory and imagination.

Widely regarded as a landmark in Spanish cinema and in a pivotal point in Spanish history, Cría Cuervos was filmed at the end of the Franco era, where cultural censorship was slowly coming to a close. Saura cleverly uses symbolism, metaphor and a child’s perspective to address repression, life under fascism and potential for freedom.

Upon its release, it was met with critical acclaim and received the Grand Prix at the 1976 Cannes Film Festival. With an outstanding performance from Ana Torrent, it depicts one of the most affecting and authentic portrayals of childhood. Even without a traditional plot, it still speaks volumes about memory, guilt and the quiet resilience of children and gives a voice to those repressed under Franco’s regime.