MOVIE INFO:
Set in contemporary Madrid, an aging filmmaker named Miguel Garay is called upon to recount his memories of working on his final and still unfinished film, “The Farewell Gaze.” During its production, the lead actor and Miguel’s close friend, Julio Arenas, disappeared without a trace, leaving in his wake a mystery that would haunt the lives of everyone associated with the film. Miguel never directed another project, instead living a quiet life as a writer by the coast. He remained reluctant to unravel the mystery surrounding Julio until approached by an investigative television program reviving the case decades later. With careful reflection, he reconnects with the film’s crew, former lovers, and Julio’s daughter, seeking closure for the disappearance and what it meant for all of their lives.
REVIEW:
“Close Your Eyes,” directed by Victor Erice, is a mesmerizing and deeply moving film that marks the Spanish master’s return to cinema after a 30-year hiatus. Streaming now on Mubi, this near-masterpiece is a testament to Erice’s unique storytelling prowess and his ability to evoke profound emotions through cinema.
The film follows Miguel Garay (played by Manolo Solo), an aging filmmaker who is approached by a television program to revisit the mystery surrounding his unfinished film, “The Farewell Gaze,” and the disappearance of its lead actor, Julio Arenas (played by José Coronado). As Miguel delves into his past, the film becomes a poignant meditation on memory, identity, and the enduring power of cinema.
Erice’s direction is both delicate and powerful, creating a contemplative atmosphere that draws viewers into Miguel’s journey. The performances are exceptional, with Solo delivering a nuanced portrayal of a man grappling with his past, and Ana Torrent (reprising her role from Erice’s debut film, “The Spirit of the Beehive“) adding a layer of emotional depth.
“Close Your Eyes” stands out not only for its narrative but also for its visual beauty. The cinematography by Valentín Álvarez is stunning, capturing the melancholic essence of the story with a painterly quality. The score further enhances the film’s introspective mood, making it a truly immersive experience.
Compared to Erice’s previous works, “Close Your Eyes” both affirms and breaks away from his established style. While it retains his signature contemplative pace and focus on human emotions, it also introduces a more personal and reflective tone, making it a fitting capstone to his illustrious career.
“Close Your Eyes” is a must-watch for fans of Erice’s films and anyone who appreciates thoughtful, emotionally resonant cinema. It earns an B+ rating or 3,5 out of 5 stars for its masterful storytelling and profound impact.
CREDITS:
Directed by
Screenplay by
- Víctor Erice
- Michel Gaztambide
Story by
Víctor Erice
Produced by
- Cristina Zumárraga
- Pablo E. Bossi
- Víctor Erice
- Jose Alba
- Odile Antonio-Baez
- Pol Bossi
- Maximiliano Lasansky
Starring
- Manolo Solo
- Jose Coronado
- Ana Torrent
- Petra Martínez
- María León
- Mario Pardo
- Helena Miquel
- Antonio Dechent
- Venecia Franco
- José María Pou
- Soledad Villamil
- Juan Margallo
Cinematography
Valentín Álvarez
Edited by
Ascen Marchena
Music by
Production
companies
- La Mirada del Adiós AIE
- Tandem Films
- Nautilus Films
- Pecado Films
- Pampa Films
Distributed by
Avalon (es)
Release dates
- 22 May 2023(Cannes)
- 29 September 2023(Spain)
Running time
169 minutes
Countries
- Spain
- Argentina
Language
Spanish
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