Spanish Affair

Spanish Affair (Spanish title: Ocho Apellidos Vascos) is a 2014 Spanish romantic comedy film directed by Emilio Martínez-Lázaro, and stars Clara Lago, Dani Rovira, and Carmen Machi. It's a heartwarming and humorous movie that dives deep into Spanish culture – specifically the cultural distinctions between the different regions of Spain. Largely seen as an allegorical joke on the cultural differences between the Andalusians and the Basques, the film is an absolute delight to watch for anyone – a Spanish native or not.

The film centers around Rafa (Dani Rova), a young Andalusian bartender whose life takes a drastic turn when he meets Amaia (Clara Lago), a girl from the Basque region of Spain. Rafa, a man who defines himself by his Andalusian heritage, falls head over heels in love with Amaia, despite the major cultural differences and regional prejudices between Andalusians and Basques. The film uses humor to tackle the delicate issue of cultural distinction, regional bias, and at times deep-seated prejudice that exist within Spanish society.

Following the sparks that fly between Rafa and Amaia during their unexpected meeting in Seville, Amaia leaves Rafa high and dry, and without any warning decides to go back to her Basque hometown, Euskadi. Rafa, however, unable to get over Amaia, decides to take a leap of faith and take a trip to Euskadi, leaving behind everything he's deemed familiar and comfortable.

In a beautiful depiction of a fish out of water, Rafa is seen struggling to fit in Amaia's culturally distinct world. He must pose as a Basque to be accepted by Amaia's fiercely Basque father, Koldo (Karra Elejalde), and he must also gain the acceptance of the tight-knit community in which Amaia lives. His antics, ill-attempts at speaking the Basque language, and his struggle to fit in adds humor that captivates the audience and drives the plot of the movie.

Through this romantic comedy, the director beautifully blends laughter and romance, bringing together various conflicting elements in a harmonious narrative consequential of a cross-cultural love affair. Carmen Machi brilliantly plays the role of Merche, Rafa’s funny and endearing friend, and Rafa’s main source of advice and assistance in his journey. Her character adds an additional layer of humor, complement his ambitious attempts at crossing cultural boundaries, and provides a sense of warmth.

The clever lines, the adorably comedic situations, the cultural exchange, and the romantic elements weave together to create a storyline that keeps audiences entertained all the way through. The movie poses as a window for non-natives to gain an understanding of the cultural dynamics within Spain, and the fact it is delivered through a lighthearted and humorous narrative makes the viewing that much more enjoyable.

The cinematography of Spanish Affair is spectacular, with wide sweeping shots of both Andalusia and Basque country that make the regions seem all the more enticing. The vibrant colors, picturesque settings, and varied landscapes also serve as a contrasting element, further emphasizing the cultural distinction the film aims to portray.

In essence, Spanish Affair gives the audience an entertaining, yet thoughtful perspective on the boundaries and biases that can exist in a society, and the lengths to which an individual might go to cross those boundaries, driven by love. It is a film about daring to step out of one's comfort zone, and the unparalleled joy of finding love in the most unexpected places. With its light and engaging storytelling, it makes for a delightful watch that gently treads the line between cultural satire and a romantic comedy. The ensemble cast injects the necessary warmth and charm into the film while the witty script makes sure the laughs keep coming.

This gripping and hilarious ride taps into the universal themes of love, acceptance, and the breaking down of cultural barriers, inviting viewers to not just watch, but to become a part of the Spanish Affair.