The August Virgin

The August Virgin (La virgen de agosto) is an intimate and contemplative Spanish film that was released in 2019. Directed by Jonah Trueba, the movie centers on an unexpected journey of self-discovery that takes place in the heat of Madrid's summer.

The film stars Itsaso Arana, who not only gives an alluring performance in the lead role but also co-writes the script with Trueba. She plays an engaging character Eva, a 33-year-old woman with a wandering soul, looking to redefine her existence. Vito Sanz plays a supporting role as an emerging new influence and potential love interest in her life, bringing a sense of companionship and romance into Eva's life. Isabelle Stoffel also forms part of the impressive cast, enhancing the narrative with her intriguing portrayal.

The August Virgin opens when Eva decides to remain in Madrid during the month of August when many city inhabitants leave for their summer vacations. The unusually tranquil city becomes a canvas for Eva, leading her on a path to self-exploration and a calm introspective journey. Embracing spontaneity and risk, Eva dares to unlock and face her impending fears, dreams and questions. She interacts with old friends, makes new ones, and indulges in the simmering Madrid nightlife, soaking in the city's summer festivals. It is this setting that gives her new perspectives and experiences she had never previously considered.

The plot revels in its simplicity, focusing on the mundane yet emotional complexities of everyday life, while drawning parallels to Madrid's local culture and festivals. The narrative does not indulge in dramatic twists or turns, rather it offers a quiet insight into the life of an ordinary woman having extraordinary realizations. This approach allows the audience to immerse in the subtleties of Eva's journey, appreciating the nuances of her character evolution.

An immense part of the charm of The August Virgin rests in its profound and empathetic depiction of Madrid, almost making the city a character in itself. Shots of vacant city streets, the buzzing festivals, the sweltering heat, and the lively neighborhoods are vividly depicted with a unique local vibe. The city, in its festive and quiet moments, mirrors Eva's emotional highs and lows, thus amplifying the narrative's emotional depth.

The beauty of The August Virgin also lies in its portrayal of Eva’s relationships, both platonic and romantic. The conversations Eva has with the individuals she encounters are naturally flowing, authentic and profound. These dialogues steadily reveal snippets of Eva’s inner thoughts and battles while simultaneously underlining the essence of human connection.

Arana's performance as Eva is nuance-filled and engaging. She manages to capture Eva's restlessness, curiosity, and transformation with a delightful balance of subtlety and force. Vito Sanz complements Arana’s performance with his steady presence, enriching the narrative's romantic subplot. His interactions with Arana bring out both characters’ complexities, thus enhancing the emotional tug of the film.

Director Jonah Trueba's gentle and empathetic direction shines throughout the film, along with the thoughtful screenplay co-written by Trueba and Arana. Together, they have crafted not just a mere character study but a film that deeply explores the themes of change, self-discovery, and the beauty found within the simplicity of life. The cinematography is aesthetically calming, aligning with the film’s introspective tone and providing a pleasant visual experience.

The film is undoubtedly thought-provoking, raising questions about life choices, personal growth, and existential dilemmas, leaving a lingering influence on the viewers.

In conclusion, The August Virgin is a captivating portrayal of a personal journey of introspection and new discoveries. Shot against the backdrop of simmering Madrid summer, the film is an ode to the beauty of being lost and the joy of finding oneself amidst the expected and unexpected encounters of life. Superb performances, thoughtful direction and a finely crafted script make this film a must-watch for those looking for a heartwarming and introspective cinematic voyage.