Every year, Harvard University selects a list of films for students to watch as they begin their studies in cinema. This list is curated by professors who carefully examine the history of cinema and choose the most relevant titles that offer valuable lessons. While primarily intended for those passionate about audiovisual media, these films can also inspire anyone seeking a deeper
cinematic experience.
On Harvard’s list of recommended films, we find a Spanish gem: Víctor Erice’s masterpiece, “El espíritu de la colmena” (The Spirit of the Beehive). Erice’s filmography comprises only four feature films: “The Spirit of the Beehive” (1973), “El Sur” (The South) (1983), “El sol del membrillo” (The Quince Tree Sun) (1992), and “Al cerrar los ojos” (Close Your Eyes) (2023), released in theaters recently. The university has chosen to highlight his debut film in this list.
Set in Spain in 1940, in the aftermath of the Civil War, the film follows a group of children in a small town who are fascinated by a screening of the classic horror film “Frankenstein.” Among them is Ana, an 8-year-old girl with a vivid imagination who becomes deeply engrossed in the story and believes that the monster’s spirit haunts her town.
#harvarduniversity #cinema #spanish @harvardfilmarchive
