Day of the Flowers

Day of the Flowers, directed by John Robert and released in 2012, is a heartwarming tale delicately woven with threads of romance, adventure, personal transformation, and family dynamics. The plot encompasses the journey of two Scottish sisters who are poles apart in terms of their character, played by Eva Birthistle and Charity Wakefield.

Birthistle portrays Rosa, the elder sister, a free-spirited and headstrong leftist who is convinced that her late father’s spirit isn't at peace. His ashes lie on the mantelpiece, and Rosa fervently believes that they should be returned to his native soil, in Cuba, in acknowledgement of his passion for the revolutionary spirit of the Cuban nation.

Wakefield, on the other hand, plays Alice, Rosa's younger sister. She is a spoiled and self-obsessed shopaholic, much more invested in her own materialistic whims than her sister's fervent ideological beliefs or her late father's quantum of solace.

When Rosa successfully convinces Alice to accompany her to Cuba to carry out her mission, their conflicting personalities illuminate the story with moments of light-hearted humor and endearing sisterly bonding. The journey provides a rich backdrop that explores the depth of the sisters' characters as they navigate the labyrinth of Cuba’s political history and cultural essence.

Adventures start to spiral when Rosa's plan to scatter her father’s ashes according to his wish gets tangled with the restrictions of Cuban customs and regulations. As their predictable Scottish life is replaced by the colorful yet unpredictable world of Havana, surprises wait at each corner.

One of the allies they make in their journey is a charismatic tour guide named Tomas, played by the renowned ballet dancer Carlos Acosta. Carlos brings to life an enigmatic character who visibly struggles between his emotions and societal obligations. As Tomas's character unfolds, he gradually adds a layer of romance to the storyline, serving as a love interest for one of the sisters. His vibrant salsa moves and his deep understanding of Cuba's intricate socio-political landscape create a captivating contrast to the sisters’ somewhat naïve interpretations of Cuban life.

A noteworthy element in Day of the Flowers is the authentic portrayal of Cuba with all its raw vigor and dynamic spirit. Its vivid culture, resplendent in its dance and music, sets the tone for the unfolding narrative. The majestic architecture and stunning landscapes of Cuba not only amplify the visual appeal of the film but also take the viewer to the quintessential heart of this Caribbean island nation.

The metamorphosis of the sisters, both individually and relationally, forms the crux of this charming cinematic treat. Alongside, the narrative keenly touches on delicate themes like post-colonial struggles, the clash of ideologies, and the warmth of familial bonds in an unobtrusive subplot. The visual juxtaposition of Scotland’s stern beauty and Cuba’s vibrant charm also subtly unravels a delicate contrast that adds to the allure of the film.

In essence, Day of the Flowers is a vibrant journey of discovery, illustrating a striking narrative of unexpected adventure, unsought love, and the profound bond of sisterhood. At its heart, it relinquishes the concept of home, of going back to one’s roots, and how it can offer a sense of resolution and peace. Take a ride on this tumultuous adventure brimming with humor, drama, dance, and cohesive storytelling to witness how two contrasting worldviews can eventually converge to a united emotional understanding.