Watch La pelota vasca

La pelota vasca from 2003 is a documentary film directed by Julio Medem that showcases the political and social climate in the Basque Country, a region located in the north of Spain and south of France. The movie takes the viewers through the different opinions and attitudes that exist in relation to the political situation in the region.

The movie is structured around interviews with over seventy people, including politicians, writers, artists, journalists, and ordinary citizens, who have different viewpoints on the issue. The aim of the documentary is to give a complete and unbiased overview of the debates and conflicts that arise from people who live in the Basque Country.

La pelota vasca is an important documentary because it provides an insight into the complex history and culture of Basque Country. It explores different aspects of Basque identity and the struggle for autonomy and independence from Spain, which has been a central issue in Basque politics for decades.

The movie also depicts the violence that has characterized the Basque conflict, such as the terrorist attacks by the ETA, a separatist group that has been active in the region for over forty years. La pelota vasca uses archival footage and interviews with victims of the violence to show the impact that ETA's actions have had on people's lives.

The documentary also addresses the issue of the Basque language and its role in Basque identity. It features interviews with writers and intellectuals who speak about the importance of the language in preserving Basque culture and tradition, and the efforts being made to encourage its adoption and preservation.

One notable aspect of the movie is its use of sound and visual elements. It uses a variety of music styles, ranging from traditional Basque music to contemporary rock, to create a dynamic and engaging soundtrack that complements the visuals. The camera work is also impressive, featuring beautiful shots of the Basque landscape and architecture, as well as close-up shots of the interviewees to capture their emotions and reactions to the questions.

The overall tone of the movie is balanced and objective. The director does not take sides or promote any particular agenda, but rather presents the different perspectives in an impartial and respectful way. This allows the viewers to make their own judgments and gain a deeper understanding of the Basque situation.

Overall, La pelota vasca is a thought-provoking and insightful documentary that explores the complexities of the Basque Country's political and cultural landscape. It is a must-see for anyone interested in the Basque conflict or in the larger issues of identity and autonomy that affect many regions in the world.