Movie Review: ‘Speak Sunlight’ – A Poignant Tale of Love, Reconciliation, and Growth.

Carol Polakoff’s ‘Speak Sunlight’ is a beautifully crafted family drama that captures the complexities of love, reconciliation, and personal growth with remarkable depth and sincerity. Set against the culturally rich and politically charged backdrop of the 1960s in France and Spain, the film takes its audience through exile, secrets, and the healing power of reconciliation.

At the centre of this narrative is the story of Maruja (played by Carmen Machi) and Manolo (played by Karra Elejalde) a couple who have lived in exile for 30 years, working as a cook and butler for the Jolis family, a prominent diplomatic household in Paris. Their lives take an interesting turn when Maruja receives life-altering news, prompting her to return to her homeland, Spain, to mend broken relationships from her past. They take Alanito the 15-year-old son of the Jolis family along with them for this trip that uncovers more secrets than they expect and enough drama to change their lives by the end of the summer.

When we are first introduced to Maruja and Manolo, they appear content in their roles. Their bond with Alanito stands out, particularly as his diplomat parents are often too busy entertaining guests to give him the attention he craves. Maruja’s maternal love for Alanito is palpable, almost as though he is the child she never had. This bond grows stronger as the story unfolds, showcasing the depth of her character and the sacrifices she is willing to make for those she loves.  

Maruja‘s determination to take Alanito along on their journey to Spain stems from a profound sense of responsibility and redemption. For her, the trip is not just about reconciling with her estranged sister but also about ensuring that Alanito understands the importance of family and forgiveness. Her relationship with Manolo, her steadfast partner, adds another layer of richness to the story. The very well-thought-through writing does well to give more details about their love story, the challenges they have faced, and the resilience that binds them together.  

The performances in ‘Speak Sunlight’ are nothing short of extraordinary. Carmen Machi delivers a deeply moving portrayal of Maruja, capturing every nuance of her emotional journey.  She brings to bear a wealth of experience in playing the role. From her guilt-ridden longing for reconciliation to the joy and relief of reconnecting with her sister, Machi’s performance is as heartfelt as it is authentic. You see and feel the change in her, almost as if the weight on her shoulders has been lessened once she reconnects with her sister.

Karra Elejalde is equally captivating as Manolo, bringing warmth and quiet strength to his character. His chemistry with Machi feels genuine, and his portrayal of a man carrying the weight of a painful past is both subtle and powerful.  

Matteo Artunedo shines as Alanito, embodying the curiosity, privilege, and kindness of a teenager who finds a second home with Maruja and Manolo, two older persons he is not related to by blood. His performance adds a youthful vibrance to the narrative, while also grounding it in the realities of adolescence and the importance of growth and maturity.

The supporting cast also delivers commendable performances, with even the minor characters feeling fully realized. The predominant use of Spanish for the spoken dialogue lends authenticity to the film, enhancing the naturalism of the performances and making the lines more impactful.  

Carol Polakoff’s writing and directing is a masterclass in storytelling, seamlessly blending intricate character arcs with a narrative that feels both expansive and intimate. The film’s 94-minute runtime is perfectly paced, packing in enough emotional resonance and plot development to feel like a condensed but richly rewarding soap opera. By the time the credits roll, you feel as though you truly know these characters and can imagine how their lives might be continuing beyond the screen.  

Visually, ‘Speak Sunlight‘ is a feast for the senses. The scenes set in France use cool colour tones and as they make the journey to Spain, you can see the colour transitioning to a warm and vibrant pallet. This seems to also mirror the emotional journey of the characters as they embark on this trip. Cinematographer José-Luis Alcaine‘s lens captures the rural landscapes of Pamplona and the historic architecture of Maruja’s homeland showcasing its breathtaking beauty, adding depth to the story’s setting and grounding its period authenticity.  

The film’s ability to evoke a sense of change and introspection is perhaps its most profound achievement. Like the characters, viewers are left contemplating the importance of forgiveness, reconciliation, and making the most of the time we have. Maruja’s journey is not just about her healing but also about inspiring the film’s audience to seek closure and embrace life’s imperfections. Her reconciliation with her sister is as necessary for her as it is for her estranged family, serving as a poignant reminder of the power of forgiveness and the importance of facing our past to move forward.  

‘Speak Sunlight’ is a deeply affecting film that leaves a lasting impression. I will score this film 8/10. It’s a must-watch for anyone seeking a film that speaks to the heart and lingers in the soul.