Must-See Movie of the Week: A 3.9-Rated Gem of Grace and Magic!

Following her work on “Lullaby” and the series “Querer,” director Alauda Ruíz de Azúa presents “The Sundays,” which premiered this week in theaters. The film portrays a young girl, played by Blanca Soroa, who is drawn to monastic life. The French press has warmly received it, giving it a notable score of 3.9 out of 5, making it the top film of the week, surpassing Park Chan-Wook’s “No Other Choice” which scored 3.7 out of 5.

What’s it about?

Ainara, 17, a student at a Catholic high school, is preparing for her final exams and considering her future college path. Surprisingly, she tells her family that she wants to spend a period in a convent to pursue a life as a nun.

This revelation shocks everyone. While her father seems persuaded by his daughter’s aspirations, for Ainara’s aunt Maite, this unexpected calling signifies a deeper issue…

What the critics say:

According to Abus de Ciné:

“Whether you are a believer or not, you can’t help but be deeply moved by the film, as the main character appears to be as much a victim of her own suffering as of the projections placed upon her youthful purity by the supporting characters, including her sister, peers, and especially her family.” By Olivier Bachelard – 5/5

According to Le Figaro:

“An originally handled subject with strength and delicacy.” By Eric Neuhoff – 5/5

According to Sud Ouest:

“Once upon a time there was faith. A profound and subtle film. Director Alauda Ruíz de Azúa conducts a brilliant reflection, never black-and-white, on religion, family, secularism, and adolescence.” By Julien Rousset – 5/5

According to La Voix du Nord:

“Result: thirteen nominations at the Goyas, the Spanish equivalent of the Césars, for this powerful film that leverages our potential misunderstanding to drive emotions.” By Christophe Caron – 4/5

According to Les Echos:

“A subtly touching film.” By Olivier De Bruyn – 4/5

According to Positif:

“The film’s strength lies in the freedom it gives each viewer to interpret Ainara’s choice according to their own beliefs, while delicately conveying the turmoil and excitement of adolescence.” By Pascale Thibaudeau – 4/5

According to aVoir-aLire.com:

“Bittersweet and poetic, this new Brazilian dramedy is a gem of grace and enchantment.” By Laurent Cambon – 4/5

According to Libération:

“This coming-of-age film, a total phenomenon in Spain, pretends to explore the faith of a teenager wanting to join the convent but turns out to be a reactionary critique of her liberal and progressive family.” By Luc Chessel – 1/5

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