El Nido Vacío (The Empty Nest) (15)
A delightful comedy for anyone whose children have left home
Director: Daniel Burman
Starring: Oscar Martínez, Cecilia Roth, Inés Efron
Argentina/Spain/France/Italy, 2008, 1 hour 31 minutes, subtitles
Sun 29 March 6.15pm - The Courtyard Hereford
An delicate, amusing confection, sophisticated, humane and full of insight into family life. The sense of loss, the need for renewal, the attractions of adultery - all the symptoms of Empty Nest Syndrome - are beautifully captured and gently mocked. The script cleverly contrasts the reaction of Martha, who throws herself into a new social life when their daughter leaves home, and that of her husband Leonardo, a successful writer reluctant to change, who is caught between his fantasies and the reality of comfortable middle-age. Funny, touching and wise, this will surely bring a smile of recognition to anyone whose children have left home.
Winner Best Actor & Best Cinematography Awards
San Sebastian International Film Festival 2008
English premiere
External Links: Official Site (in Spanish) / San Sebastian Film Festival entry