La Abuela

La Abuela is a gripping 2021 psychological thriller film, a Spanish production directed by Paco Plaza, known for his expertise in the horror genre, particularly the famous "REC" series. In this film, he continues to astonish the audience with his terrifying yet intricate storytelling techniques. The movie features remarkable performances by Almudena Amor, Vera Valdez, and Karina Kolokolchykova.

The movie revolves around the complex but intimate character of Susana (played brilliantly by Almudena Amor), a young woman leaving her country, Spain, in a quest to establish herself in the world of high-fashion modeling. She ventures to the vibrant city of Paris, where she believes her dreams will take flight. As time passes, the façade of glamour and glitz fades away, and soon, she realizes that the world she aspired to be a part of is not as pleasant and inviting as it seemed. The dormant shadows of exploitation, manipulation, and fierce competition start to haunt her.

But just as she feels the ground slipping from under her feet, life gives her an unexpected turn through her chance meeting and ensuing relationship with her enigmatic grandmother (portrayed by Vera Valdez), la abuela. She hadn't been in touch with her grandmother for an extended period and was unaware of her presence in the same city. The beautiful elderly woman was once a Spanish starlet who, too, had dreams and passions similar to Susana’s, which were crushed by the severe realities of the same glittery industry.

Through a shared connection and experiences, Susana and her grandmother develop a unique bond. Vera Valdez elegantly embodies the persona of the sophisticated yet solitary figure of the grandmother who carries a haunting past – filled with fascinating yet eerie tales of her days in Cuban and Spanish cinema. Vera's character becomes a mentor to Susana, assisting her in navigating the ruthless world they're both a part of.

Young actress Karina Kolokolchykova also manifests a significant role in the film as Susana’s roommate, introducing more suspense and unease into the story. Her exceptional performance as a fiercely ambitious model contributes to the movie's sinister atmosphere, reinforcing the dark realities hidden under high-fashion's glamorous surface.

La Abuela beautifully juxtaposes the world of fashion with mystery and horror. Plaza skillfully moves between these two contrasting worlds, creating an unnerving ambiance that keeps viewers riveted. The use of long narrow corridors, dimly lit rooms, decaying apartment settings, and Plaza’s brilliant direction contribute to the intense, eerie atmosphere.

Another remarkable element in this film is the cinematography. The narrow lanes of Paris, including the dimly lit streets and dingy apartments, become a part of the narrative, enhancing the movie's mystique and tension. The soundtrack also plays a pivotal role, accentuating the plot at just the right moments, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.

La Abuela consistently maintains a sense of dread and uncertainty, making it much more than just another thriller. The heartfelt performances create an empathetic resonance that plunges viewers into Susana's world immediately. It’s not just a horror film; it’s a deep exploration of dreams and their harsh realities, familial bonds, past traumas, and the necessity for survival in a glamour-soaked yet ruthless world.

In conclusion, La Abuela is a captivating film that blends horror, mystery, and fashion, offering an unconventional take on the genre that leaves you at the edge of your seat. The brilliant performance by the cast, coupled with Paco Plaza’s remarkable direction, make La Abuela a must-watch for those seeking more than just a surface-level scare. It’s a fresh take on ethereal horror filled with suspense and an underlining emotion, resonating long after the end credits have rolled. It ensures that viewers will see the world of fashion through a mysterious and haunting perspective - exactly how Paco Plaza envisaged it.