spirited

'sex and lucia' is just not as good as the original language title, but this spanish gem would seduce even without a title. it is absolutely beautiful in so many ways. the story is complex but clear enough, the characters are real, and the island where much of the film is shot is like another planet.
the starring role is played by paz vega, not unknown to american audiences, but i highly doubt any of her other films comes close to this early work of cinematic art. it is bold and bewildering, sad and cerebral. as space once filled can no longer be empty, what is lost is never entirely gone. the shape it once took is everlasting. if you choose to see this film i know you will be amazed.