Alauda Ruiz de Azúa Dives into Faith, Family, and Society with 'Los Domingos'

Award-winning Spanish director Alauda Ruiz de Azúa, known for her poignant and deeply human narratives, is set to captivate audiences once again with her upcoming film, 'Los Domingos' (Sundays). Fresh off the success of her Goya-winning debut 'Lullaby' (Cinco Lobitos), Ruiz de Azúa is venturing into ambitious new territory, exploring the complex interplay of religion, family dynamics, and societal pressures within contemporary Spain.

This much-anticipated project, which is already generating buzz, promises to be a thoughtful and intricate examination of how traditional beliefs intersect with modern life.

The film, slated for a world premiere at the 73rd San Sebastian Film Festival, where it will compete in the Official Section, marks a significant return for the director.

'Los Domingos' delves into the life of a family profoundly shaped by their Catholic faith, grappling with its influence on their daily choices, relationships, and individual identities. Ruiz de Azúa's previous work demonstrated her exceptional ability to craft intimate, relatable stories that resonate deeply with viewers, and this new endeavor is expected to continue that tradition, albeit with a broader, more societal lens.

Ruiz de Azúa herself has shed light on the film's core themes, explaining that 'Los Domingos' is an attempt to understand the pervasive presence of religion in Spanish culture, even for those who might consider themselves secular.

She aims to explore how religious traditions, rituals, and values are woven into the fabric of everyday life, influencing everything from family gatherings to personal ethics, often subtly and sometimes overtly. This exploration promises to be nuanced, avoiding simplistic judgments in favor of a deeper understanding of human belief systems and their societal impact.

The director emphasized her interest in the universal human need for connection and belonging, and how religious institutions have historically fulfilled this role.

However, the film also examines the tensions that arise when individual desires clash with communal expectations or rigid doctrines. This provides fertile ground for a dramatic narrative, as characters navigate their personal beliefs against a backdrop of inherited traditions and evolving societal norms.

The casting features an ensemble of acclaimed Spanish actors, including Urko Olazabal (Goya winner for 'Maixabel'), Patricia López Arnaiz (Goya winner for 'Ane'), and Javi Gutiérrez. Their collective talent is expected to bring a profound authenticity to the film's complex characters and their emotional journeys.

With 'Los Domingos,' Alauda Ruiz de Azúa is not merely telling a story about a religious family; she is inviting audiences to reflect on the broader cultural tapestry of Spain, and indeed, many societies, where faith continues to play a multifaceted and often contradictory role.

Her directorial vision, combined with a compelling cast and a timely theme, positions 'Los Domingos' as a significant cinematic event that is sure to provoke thought, discussion, and perhaps even a re-evaluation of our own beliefs and traditions.