Burgos, Spain, 1935: a new teacher, Antoni Benaiges, arrives at the village school. His first act is to remove the crucifix from the wall. Soon he’s instructing his young charges in the art of the waltz and setting up a printing press in the classroom. The children love him, but their parents are scandalized. In a parallel modern day strand, Ariadna (Laia Costa) investigates the fate of her great-grandfather, who disappeared during the Spanish civil war. Based on a true story, Patricia Font’s drama excavates a dark period in Spanish history.
The film was nominated for five Goya awards, including Best Actor (Enric Auquer) and best adapted screenplay.
New Spanish Cinema returns for another exciting year, and our Opening Gala is the perfect way to start 2025! Join us for an acclaimed film, followed by delicious tapas, savory Serrano ham, and a captivating flamenco dance performance in the atrium. A glass of wine is also included in your ticket.
A tenderly realised and strikingly well shot film anchored by a fine performance by Auquer.
Jason Blake, Limelight
A joy, despite such sadness…
Stephen Romei, The Australian
This film is a thing of beauty.
El Diario
Patricia Font
Enric Auquer, Laia Costa
Spain/France
2023
In Spanish with English subtitles
Nominated for 5 Goya Awards, including Best Actor and Best Adapted Screenplay
Book Tickets
Friday January 03
Indigenous & Community Access
Credits
Screenwriter
Albert Val
Cinematography
David Valldepérez
Editor
Dani Arregui
Art Director
Josep Rosell
Original Music
Natasha Arizu del Valle
Also in This Series
Opening Gala: The Teacher Who Promised the Sea
Based on a true story, Patricia Font’s drama excavates a dark period in Spanish history. Antoni Benaiges takes up a village teaching position in 1935. But his new-fangled ideas about learning outrage the local priest. + Tapas, Serrano ham, wine or beer, flamenco dancing
Little Loves
Teresa (María Vázquez) is compelled to change her holiday plans to help her proudly independent mother (Adriana Ozores), who has had a fall. Mother and daughter will spend a stifling summer disagreeing on everything -- but finding each other again.
They Will Be Dust
When stage veteran Claudia decides she doesn't want to wait out her terminal illness, longtime partner and director Flavi calls the family together to break the news... Fantastic musical numbers and comedy offset scenes of wrenching emotion.
The Teacher Who Promised the Sea
Based on a true story, Patricia Font’s drama excavates a dark period in Spanish history. Antoni Benaiges takes up a village teaching position in 1935. But his new-fangled ideas about learning outrage the local priest.