De chair et d'os

"Legado en los Huesos" is a grim and gritty thriller that continues the story of inspector Amaia Salazar, who returns to her hometown in the Basque Country to investigate a series of gruesome crimes.

Director Fernando González Molina delivers a dark and atmospheric film that captures the eerie beauty of the Basque landscape, shrouded in constant rain and mist, reflecting the murky depths of the human psyche. The film effectively utilizes its setting, evoking a sense of isolated dread akin to the best Nordic noirs, where the stunning visuals are contrasted with disturbing scenes of violence and gore.

The story, adapted from the novel by Dolores Redondo, is a complex web of mystery and intrigue. Inspector Amaia, played by Marta Etura, is a compelling lead, haunted by her past and struggling to balance her personal life and the demands of her job. The character's internal conflicts are portrayed with depth and nuance, adding a layer of emotional complexity to the narrative. Etura's performance is a highlight, conveying Amaia's strength and vulnerability as she navigates a world of male-dominated police work and confronts her own traumatic history.

The supporting cast is also strong, with special mention to Leonardo Sbaraglia as Amaia's colleague and potential love interest, Inspector Montés, who brings a sense of warmth and humanity to the film. The dynamic between Amaia and Montés is one of the film's strengths, offering moments of levity and emotional connection amidst the darkness.

The film excels in its depiction of the investigative process, with Amaia and her team meticulously examining crime scenes and following leads, often uncovering more questions than answers. However, the plot becomes convoluted as it tries to juggle multiple storylines and themes. The film introduces elements of supernatural folklore and delves into Amaia's personal life, including her difficult relationship with her mother, all while trying to solve a series of brutal murders. As a result, certain plot threads feel underdeveloped or hastily resolved, leaving some aspects of the story feeling rushed and unsatisfying.

The film's pacing is also uneven, with some scenes lingering too long and others feeling rushed. The tone veers from tense and suspenseful to melodramatic, especially in the latter half, where the film leans heavily into its more sensationalistic elements. The final act, in particular, descends into overly familiar horror tropes, detracting from the otherwise compelling mystery.

That being said, "Legado en los Huesos" offers a compelling and unique setting, exploring the cultural and political backdrop of the Basque Country. The film touches on themes of tradition, superstition, and the lingering scars of political violence, adding depth and context to the story.

In terms of technical aspects, the film is impressive. The cinematography is stunning, with each frame meticulously composed to emphasize the beauty and isolation of the Basque landscape. The production design and costuming are also noteworthy, contributing to the overall sense of gloom and despair that permeates the film.

The score, however, is somewhat forgettable, failing to enhance the tension or add much-needed emotional depth to certain scenes. This is a missed opportunity, as the music could have provided a more powerful and immersive experience.

Overall, "Legado en los Huesos" is a flawed but engaging thriller. It offers a compelling lead character, a unique setting, and a gripping mystery, but it struggles to balance its various elements, resulting in a somewhat uneven pacing and a disappointing conclusion.