Under the Stars (Baho Les Estrellas)
Benito Lacunza (Alberto San Juan) is a second-rate muso, who plays the trumpet at his local bar. News that his father has died necessitates his return to his hometown in rural Navarra, where he is reunited with his sensitive brother, sculptor and recovering alcoholic, Lalo (Suárez).
It would be an underestimation to say that Lacunza is an unlikeable man: a typical self-proclaimed “ musician” teetering on middle-age, who really ought to have outgrown this phase of his life, he is annoyingly egocentric and guileless.
His attitude towards his deceased father is contemptuous, as is his approach to life in general. A chance meeting with his brother’s girlfiend’s daughter Ainara does little to dissuade the audience that he is far from convivial. But, as their relationship develops, we see his potential for change.
As his stay in Navarro is extended, Benito is afforded the opportunity to redeem himself. Will he attain redemption, or will he remain true to the immature, uncaring and self-centred man we are introduced to at the beginning of the film?
A situation that arises, in some respects acts as a bonding experience between Benito and his brother, Lalo. Interestingly, Lacunza’s reaction could be perceived as typical of the old Benito, while others could see it as a heartening sign of his redemption.
What will you think?
While it takes a while to warm to this film, there are gentle moments of humour and pathos that make it an ultimately rewarding experience.