Talk of Angels

Talk of Angels is a riveting drama set in the scenic landscapes of Spain during the 1930s, on the brink of Civil War. The drama unfolds through the eyes of a young Irish governess who steps foot into a world far removed from her own and ends up in the middle of political and emotional turmoil. Released in 1998, Talk of Angels stars the talented Polly Walker, charismatic Vincent Perez, and veteran actor Franco Nero.

Directed by Nick Hamm, Talk of Angels is based on the novel "Mary Lavelle" by Kate O'Brien. Set in 1936, it takes the viewer on an emotive journey into the heart of Spain, where the divide between the ruling rich and the oppressed poor is deeply felt. In the midst of the brewing political unrest, the intimate lives of a Spanish family and of Mary Lavelle (Polly Walker), the young Irishwoman employed as their governess, are painted in sensitive strokes by the filmmakers.

Mary leaves Ireland behind at a time when her marriage plans have fallen through, seeking to understand herself apart from the norms and conventions she has always been accustomed to. In this foreign land, she becomes part of the Spanish family, finding herself drawn into their lives. She forms a special bond with the children she is entrusted to teach, thus anchoring herself further into the complicated lives of her host family.

Unexpectedly, Mary finds herself caught in a troubling romantic relationship with the married eldest son of the family, Francisco, played by Vincent Perez. Francisco is a passionate Republican, advocating for justice and equality for the less privileged, thus mirroring the turbulent political climate brewing in Spain. Their tangled emotional bond only intensifies as the reality of their circumstances presses on them.

Polly Walker gives a nuanced performance as Mary Lavelle. Her performance excellently portrays an innocent woman’s journey to self-discovery and the tumultuous emotional disaster she navigates along the way. Vincent Perez, as Francisco, brings an equally compelling depth to his character; a man torn between the love for his wife, his undeniable attraction to Mary, and his devotion to his country which is on the brink of collapse.

Franco Nero plays Dr. Vicente Areavaga, a family friend and respected physician, who acts as a moral compass and guide. His character's wisdom and compassion are a meaningful counterbalance to the emotionally charged, ethically complex universe of the characters.

The film’s portrayal of the rising tensions and divide within Spain during the 1930’s serves as a powerful backdrop. The narrative parallels between the personal unrest within the characters’ lives and the societal unrest within Spain cleverly accentuates the film’s dramatic intensity.

Talk of Angels succeeds in capturing the essence of a tormented love founded and shattered in impossible circumstances. Simultaneously, it presents a poignant narrative of a country at the brink of war. The juxtaposition of the two conflicts, personal and political, and the tension they create push the boundaries of traditional romantic dramas, making Talk of Angels a unique cinematic experience.

Furthermore, the film’s meticulously designed sets and beautiful cinematography, coupled with the captivating performances by the cast, bring to life the drama and passion of 1930s Spain. The romance, politics, and lush scenery of this period intertwine to create a visually stunning tapestry made even more breathtaking by the beautiful score.

Together, the ensemble cast of Talk of Angels, the thoughtful direction, the compelling screenplay, and captivating cinematography combine to create a delightful cinematic feast. The film is a thought-provoking exploration of love, duty, and political turmoil that takes its viewers surprisingly deep under the surface of its attractive romantic premise.

In conclusion, Talk of Angels is a tour de force, a historic romance that not only entertains but also subtly educates its audience about a critical era in Spain’s history. It's a detailed and wrenching tale of love, moral conflict, political upheaval, and personal transformation set against the backdrop of a beautiful but ill-fated Spain, making it a film worth watching.