Before El Finâ

Under Spanish Skies is a deeply moving film about life and death. A reclusive artist invites old friends to her farm in Spain and tells them of a suicide pact she had with her deceased husband. In the next 48 hours, to save her, the friends must reveal secrets from the past that could cause her to change her mind. In todays world of action packed super hero movies some viewers may find it's a bit of a slow but steady pace. I personally think this is not a bad thing. It's not that kind of movie. This is not a story to be rushed and there's no need to. It has a very intelligent screenplay and the cast is excellent across the board. The camera work is amazing and the exquisite Spanish landscapes and scenery are just beautiful. I highly recommend this movie.

Writer/director Nathan Buck has crafted a finely nuanced drama that makes anvils seem light in comparison. Under Spanish Skies spotlights panoramic vistas in its excellent cinematography, and has a polished look that far surpasses many of today's indie film releases. The film has a somber script that takes a sobering look at tough adult situations, such as long-strained relationships and abruptly discovered, deeply-held secrets. The film is brought to life with really good acting throughout. Each cast member created a character that seemed to embody an unspoken backstory, lending gravitas to their performances. To be sure, this is drama with a CAPITAL D, with nary a laugh to be found. But if movie dramas are your thing, this one has that in spades and you can be completely certain that you'll get your drama fix!

Good looking movie. It's a gem. The visuals are stunning, the storytelling is succinct yet impactful, and the characters and plot keep you hooked until the very end. Though not all performances are on par, the actors embody their roles seamlessly, and their gripping drama leaves you wanting more. Buck's efficient storytelling is commendable, never once letting the pace drag. As a viewer, you'll be invested in the melancholy souls whose lives intertwine on screen, eager to see how their stories unfold. Creating an independent film is a daunting feat, but kudos to Buck and his crew for making it appear effortless. And as a bonus, it's a feast for the eyes.

Nathan Buck's independent film "Under Spanish Skies" has a great deal going for it. The cinematography is excellent, the story concisely yet effectively told, and the plot and characters keep you engaged throughout. While not all performances are necessarily equal, the actors fit their roles well, and you do find yourself engrossed in their drama and wanting to know how it will all play out. The economy with which writer-director Buck tells his story is also commendable; at no point does it drag. As a viewer, you are invested in the sad souls whose intertwining stories are being told here, and you want to see how these stories will come to conclusion. Making an independent film is a murderously hard task, so major kudos to Buck and his team for making it look essentially effortless. And it's beautiful to look at, into the bargain.

It's no coincidence that Shakespeare is heavily referenced within the story of this film. If only the characters could recognize how their own lives echo stories by the classic playwright.

In the wake of her husband's untimely passing, Leah has invited her closest friends to their villa under the guise of mourning him. In truth she has a secret to reveal which will send all of their relationships into a tailspin. But Leah's secret is only the beginning, and there is more to unfold as we learn their shared past is not all that it appears to be.

The intersecting the lives of a small cast collide here in unexpected ways against the backdrop of the Spanish countryside. Wonderful cinematography, talented cast, and an understated score push this film forward every step of the way.