The 2025 Spanish Film Festival kicked off with El 47, a slow-burning but visually rich feature that chugs through the real-life story of a man, his dream, and a hijacked bus. It’s a film full of “bus wishes” and bittersweet determination. However, it takes a while to get where it’s going.
Set against the textured backdrop of mid-20th century Barcelona and Catalonia, El 47 is a nostalgic visual feast. The production design is one of the film’s standouts- costumes, props, and vehicles from the 1950s through to the 1970s are sprinkled throughout with care and authenticity, immersing the audience in the era with every frame. It’s a love letter to a forgotten time and place, captured through a lens of quiet rebellion.
The story follows a man who, after building a small village with his bare hands, takes matters into his own hands – literally – by hijacking a bus to prove that public transport can (and should) reach his rural town of Torre Baró. It’s an almost folkloric tale of ingenuity, hope, and grit.
Despite winning five Goya Awards, including Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor (Salva Reina), and Best Supporting Actress (Segura), the film’s pacing leaves much to be desired. It takes time to get going – and even when it does, the rhythm struggles to fully engage. The use of Catalan, rather than Castilian Spanish, may also distance some viewers unfamiliar with the linguistic nuance.
Ultimately, El 47 is more about the journey than the destination. For lovers of slow cinema, political history, and exquisite period detail, this may be the perfect opening ride. Just don’t expect high-speed thrills – it’s more heritage tram than express train.
El 47 is one of many films showing at this year’s Spanish Film Festival – check out all the session times here.