In English and Spanish, based on a true story, this Spanish drama film It Snows in Benidorm is slow-paced but that’s how this melancholic story rolls to create its effectiveness. It has beautiful settings and backgrounds that can change into one of danger and mystery where the mafia lurks behind the scenes chasing unpaid debts.
It is a romantic film that I found intriguing and curious. In some ways, the life of middle-aged Peter, the film’s main character, experiences few joys in life and at times, made me feel sad.
The Story
Down and out, dedicated, quiet and unassuming, Englishman Peter, played by Timothy Spall (most recognisable for his varied roles in The Kings Speech, Harry Potter, Secrets & Lies, Assassins Bullet to name a few), has worked all his life in the loans department of a local bank in Manchester.
Close to the end of his career he is forced into an unexpected retirement and is in disarray about his future and seeks out his brother Daniel who resides in Benidorm.
On arrival to this tourist destination in Spain, Peter soon discovers his brother has been missing for several days, and no one seems to know nor care for that matter where he is. It seems he has disappeared before and will return when he is ready.
Peter finds this disconcerting and strange even though their relationship wasn’t the closest but being raised with parents who drank a lot, they retained their connection.
During his search, Peter also discovers his flamboyant brother is the owner of the Benidorm Club of exotic burlesque dancers and performers.
In his quest to find his brother, Peter re-examines his life and falls for Alex one of the dancers and an unusual platonic bond takes place. The film’s focus is on two people with opposing backgrounds and philosophy’s where Peter learns about life, and Alex finds a reliable friend who provides her with a sense of security.
The Cast
Writer/ Director -Isabel Coixet
Producers – Pedro Almodovar, Esther Garcia, Agustin Almodovar
Actors – Timothy Spall (Peter), Sarita Choudhury (Alex), Ana Torrent (Lucia) Pedro Casablanc (Esteban Campos), Carmen Machi (Marta) and Edgar Vittorino (Leon).
Music composer – Alfonso Vilallonga
Australian releases 17 March 2022 in listed cinema locations:
NSW
Collaroy
Opera Quays
Palace Central
VICTORIA
Cameo Belgrave
Classic Elsternwick
Palace Balwyn
Lido Hawthorn
QLD
Graceville, New Farm
SA
Nova Eastend
WA
Luna Perth
Luna SX Street
Windsor
Ruth Greening holds a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in Psychology & Philosophy. Before retirement, she worked for over 40 years in the corporate world in Melbourne and Brisbane and progressed into senior management positions and project roles for both private industry and government.
In her 70th decade, she continues in casual roles as a freelance writer, model, and actor participating in small movies, TV commercials and User Generated Content.
As a grandmother, she is known as Nanny Babe to her grandchildren and writes from a Baby Boomer perspective on her blog www.nannybabe.com. An avid crafter Ruth actively participates in sewing, crocheting and knitting.
While she continues to pursue her artistic passions, Ruth is dedicated to maintaining her health and fitness as she ages by attending the gym, dancing and walking and thrives on mentoring others.
Connect with Ruth or our moniker Nanny Babe; nannybabegengp.blogspot.com.au/
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