Watch La vaquilla

La Vaquilla is a Spanish comedy-drama film set during the Spanish Civil War. Directed by Luis Garcia Berlanga, the movie is known for its dark humor and satire, typical of the director's style. Released in 1985, the film stars Alfredo Landa, Guillermo Montesinos, and Santiago Ramos in leading roles. The story begins in 1937 when the Republican troops are trying to conquer a small town in Aragon, Spain. The Nationalist side has already retreated, and the Republicans are now looking for food and other supplies. Among the looters are two soldiers, Teodoro (Alfredo Landa) and Tocho (Guillermo Montesinos), who stumble upon a herd of cows, including a pregnant heifer, which they decide to take along with them.

The soldiers are aware that the cow is highly valued by both sides of the war, as it can provide much-needed milk and meat. Teodoro and Tocho take the cow with them through their journey, disguising it as a wounded Republican soldier, in order to sneak it past enemy lines. The pregnant heifer soon becomes the hottest commodity for both sides of the war, as they all try to get their hands on it.

Meanwhile, a group of Republican soldiers are preparing a play to celebrate the International Day of the Child. The play is meant to be an allegory of the Spanish Civil War, making fun of both sides, and painting a grotesque portrait of the conflict. The soldiers, however, are having a hard time finding props and costumes for the play, and eventually decide to use the cow as their centerpiece.

As the movie progresses, the cow becomes a symbol for both sides of the war, and different factions try to seize it for their own purposes. At the same time, the Republican soldiers continue with their preparations for the play, which eventually turns out to be a hilarious portrayal of the war.

Throughout the movie, Berlanga uses satire and humor to highlight the absurdity of war and the effects it has on people's lives. The film is a scathing commentary on the politics of both sides of the war, and their disregard for the average citizen caught in the middle. It also serves as a reminder that life goes on, even in times of war, and people will always find ways to make jokes and have a good time, no matter what the circumstances.

The acting in La Vaquilla is superb, with Alfredo Landa and Guillermo Montesinos delivering outstanding performances as the two soldiers who end up bonding with the cow, and Santiago Ramos delivering laughs as the timid soldier chosen to play the lead role in the play. The supporting cast is also excellent, with each actor playing their respective role to perfection.

The cinematography and production design are also top-notch, capturing the bleak and desolate landscape of war-torn Spain, while also highlighting the beauty of the countryside. The music, composed by Jose Natividad Martínez, perfectly complements the visuals, creating a somber and melancholic atmosphere that underscores the film's message.

In conclusion, La Vaquilla is a brilliant satire of war and its effects on ordinary people. Berlanga's dark humor and biting commentary make this movie a must-watch for anyone interested in Spanish cinema and history. The film showcases the talents of its cast and crew, and provides a poignant and heartfelt look at the absurdity and tragedy of war. It is a masterpiece that deserves to be seen by audiences worldwide.