‘Fin de Siglo
End of the Century is showing at the BFI London Film Festival from Tuesday 8th of October 2019
At some point in our lives, we have all asked ourselves, “what if I had made a different decision or taken a different path; would I be happier?” This is the question posed by writer-director Lucio Castro in his debut feature, End of the Century. Here Castro focuses on the power of those random encounters that may or may not have shaped your life given different circumstances.
Ocho (Juan Barberini) has just arrived in Barcelona and is settling into his Airbnb apartment, looking out over the scenic city. By day he walks around the city, taking in the beauty of the buildings, beaches and parks, while also eagerly looking for a potential partner for fun. But while Otto firmly believes in no string fun, his world is suddenly challenged on meeting Javi (Ramon Pujol) for an afternoon of passionate sex. Following the heat of desire, both men sit on a rooftop, drinking wine and eating crackers while looking out over the city as the sun sets on the century. Here Javi discusses his open and loving relationship with his husband, while Ocho reflects on his recent separation from his partner. But as the conversation progresses, a deep sense of DĂ©jĂ vu stirs in Otto’s mind. Have they met before?
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Castro’s film owes much to Andrews Haighs 2011 Weekend in both style and substance as Ocho and Javi explore their relationship goals and barriers in what is, in essence, a two-person play. However, as Castro unravels both men’s pasts, End of the Century becomes a powerful journey of memory, regret and desire. Here Castro’s debut is simple in construct yet emotionally complex as it unpicks the question raised at the start of this review. The result is a nuanced story of love, commitment and connection that meditates on the potential love we have all squandered through snap decisions.
Director: Lucio Castro
Cast: Juan Barberini, Ramon Pujol
Argentina (2019)
