Granada Nights

Granada Nights does a fantastic job with it's script, characters and locations to deliver a coming-of-age film that inspires it's viewers to venture outside of their comfort zone and explore other cultures. It personally has confirmed my desire to travel more myself, which is a big compliment for any film!

Ben's character development is particularly heart-warming, along with the various friends he meets along the way. Highly recommend this film for all nomads out there!

A beautiful and poetic film about being young & abroad. The story is simple but it's the themes and feelings of connection and friendship that really resonate with me greatly. Shot in a unique aspect ratio, it mixes documentary with fiction with dash of nostalgia. It's hard not to love this film, beautifully shot and authentic in its portrayal. A must watch!

Granada Nights is a great film. The key elements of the film's quality are the strong performances, the fresh script and the film's look. The story is fascinating, and the script is well developed, sometimes funny, some others insightful. In addition, the film shows the beautiful city of Granada. The photography is fabulous, and the direction is excellent.

I did my year abroad in 2016 (Germany!) and this just brought it all back! The lazy days, the random people you meet and never see again, the sudden panic when you realise you're not doing much with your life and the drifters that will still be there in 10 years - it really captured everything. And most of all the bitter-sweet feeling that everything is temporary and every friendship and relationship has a designated end. I've never seen it done on screen before - so for me it was really nostalgic but also for anyone who hasn't had the opportunity, this really takes you through it. It was so atmospheric, at times had a bit of a Dazed and Confused vibe where you're just watching the teenagers interact and react, shot beautifully, so many different characters from different walks of life. I especially loved Oscar because he is just such a classic old school guy on the prowl no shame lol - there were quite a few self-aware jokes there. I saw it in the cinema which was a real treat, so especially recommend that if you get the chance, it's a nice film to share with people. Just loved it, it's fun, emotional, it's got it all!

"Granada Nights" is a poignant and visually captivating exploration of self-discovery and the complexities of human connections. Directed with a deft touch by Abid Khan, the film takes us on a journey through the historic and vibrant city of Granada, Spain, as experienced by the main character, Ben, played with remarkable depth by Antonio Aakeel.

At its core, "Granada Nights" is a coming-of-age story. Ben, a young man unsure of his place in the world, finds himself in Granada following a heartbreak. The film excels in portraying his emotional journey, from the depths of his despair to his gradual awakening to the world around him. It's a universal tale of finding oneself in the midst of loss and the transformative power of travel.

The cinematography is a standout, capturing the essence of Granada with such authenticity and beauty that the city becomes a character in its own right. The narrow, winding streets, the lively plazas, and the breathtaking Alhambra Palace are not just backdrops but integral to Ben's journey. The use of vibrant colors and music adds to the film's immersive experience, making it a sensory delight.

The supporting cast, including Óscar Casas, Julius Fleischanderl and Laura Frederico deliver compelling performances, each adding a layer to the narrative. The film does an excellent job of portraying the diverse, multicultural fabric of Granada through its characters, each bringing their own stories and perspectives, thus enriching Ben's experience and growth.

One of the film's strengths is its honest depiction of expatriate life, capturing both the exhilaration and challenges of living abroad. It navigates through themes of friendship, love, cultural identity, and the pursuit of purpose with sensitivity and a touch of humor.

While the film moves at a measured pace, it is this deliberateness that allows the audience to truly absorb and reflect on the story being told. "Granada Nights" is not just about the journey of its protagonist but also an invitation for the viewers to introspect on their own life paths.

"Granada Nights" is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that offers a unique and heartfelt perspective on growth, change, and finding one's place in the world. It's a testament to the power of travel and human connections in shaping our lives. A must-watch for those who appreciate cinema that combines beautiful storytelling with a deep sense of place.