Blancanieves, directed by Pablo Berger, is a stunning
contemporary silent film. Modern
audiences will quickly discover that there need be no interruptive jabber to
make a film worthy of their gaze. Rather,
viewers will come to realize and respect their experience of a film in a
different manner. The film’s
silence—the old-fashioned title cards and inaudible dialogue—greatly enhances
its narrative. The viewer is left
guessing, waiting for the words to appear onscreen. Modern cinematography, accompanied by Spanish-style melodies,
help to move the story along.
Set in a Spanish town during the 1920’s, this
black-and-white film is far from bleak.
The cinematography is beautifully engaging, inviting the audience to be
a part of the narrative. The
acting is as well-executed as any, and the actors were masterfully chosen. Following a Snow White based storyline,
with a Spanish bullfighting twist, Blancanieves proves the timelessness of our
most beloved fairytales. Though,
the film is far from a children’s bed time story.
Time and again, the evil stepmother, Encarna, displays her
ruthlessness toward all who surround her.
Most vulnerable to Encarna’s villainous behavior, Carmen lie beholden to
a range of ill-treatment. The viewer is left with an almost constant desire for
revenge. A strong feeling of
resentment and hatred is conjured as a result. Finally, only after Encarna’s demise, is any sense of
satisfaction achieved.
The ending of Blancanieves, possibly contrary to popular opinion, was absolutely wonderful. As a mere prop for a circus freak-show, Carmen is placed inside the classic Snow White glass box, waiting for her Prince Charming to bring her back to life with a kiss. At the very end, when the man who could be considered her true love kisses her, we see a tear slide down her cheek. She did not suddenly awaken, as may be the case in traditional fairytale stories. The tear that rolled ever-so-slightly down Carmen’s cheek,
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