Notas sobre un verano

The world premiere of Diego Llorente’s Notas sobre un verano set over a sensual summer of love in Asturias.

Writer and filmmaker Llorente’s homeland becomes the focus of a simmering drama played out amongst the beaches, squares and lush green mountains of this north-western province of Spain. The action follows Marta as she swaps her busy life in Madrid with boyfriend Leo for a trip back to her hometown for the summer. With naturalistic settings, minimal dialogue and lingering shots, the director highlights the contrast between real life and the carefree pace of the holidays. As the summer progresses, a relationship from her past causes confusion and she’s forced to choose between the innocence and freedom of her youth and the grown-up world with all its routines and responsibilities.

Llorente’s recent forays into features have seen him hailed as an innovative new talent, with his work screened at festivals around the world. His naturalistic style and take on contemporary life has seen him rewarded with selection for IFFR’s trademark Tiger competition, celebrating adventurous, up-and-coming filmmakers.

– Justine Maybank