I am disappointed in myself for missing the premiere of a Paco Plaza film on Shudder. I love the REC franchise, Veronica, and Sister Death. La abuela/ The Grandmother (2021) isn’t a new film, but it’s a fantastic addition to our favorite streaming platform. I also love Spanish-language cinema. A young model working in Paris returns to Madrid to care for her ailing grandmother, who has had a stroke. The following days are an unexpected nightmare.
La abuela
Susana is living her dream, embarking on what seems to be a bright new chapter in her modeling career, and Pilar is the grandmother in question. Susana receives the news from the hospital and rushes home in the middle of an important photo shoot. There isn’t much to surprise within the first act. It’s made rather apparent what will transpire between the pair, and we just need to fill in the how part. Nothing new here, but it’s their relationships and the follow-through that kept me engaged.
Mirror, Mirror
I wouldn’t say that Susana is vain or selfish; she’s certainly gorgeous, and she’s enjoying life. She returns to Madrid quickly without hesitation, and it’s evident that the pair were close and share a lot in common. Susana does her best to adapt and take care of her grandmother.
Pilar is also stunning, she’s wealthy, and her home is immaculate. From the beginning, we are made aware that Pilar has lost her partner, which sets off an incredible series of events. Most importantly, Pilar has a visitor. This young woman Eva is the granddaughter of her girlfriend. And what follows seems to spiral quickly beyond the ordinary, leaving it up to Susana to regain control of her life.
“There’s nothing more powerful than a flame before it goes out.”
I enjoyed a lot of what was happening because it could be that Susana is just overwhelmed by taking on the job of caring for her grandmother. Moreover, Pilar’s behavior is very on mark for the loss of her faculties. She went from thriving in her old age to needing full-time care. It’s a lot of work for one person. Throw in that Susana is trying to do what’s best for her, but in a matter of a few days, she knows she needs help.
I feel so sad for Susana for trying and failing. Everything that can happen to someone in Pilar’s condition happens. Susana loses a lucrative position, and she’s losing a grip on reality. Unbeknownst to her is that the supernatural is involved. A ritual is unfolding that I doubt anyone could stop. The subtlety of the witchcraft at work while Pilar reaches the end of her days is impressive.
You Have My Body
The movie is slow-paced, beautifully shot, and creates an unsettling and intriguing mood. The relationship between Pilar and Eva beyond life and death is frightening and beautiful. The natural and supernatural blend so smoothly. Check this one out on Shudder today. Allow things to unfold and enjoy the experience.
