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When Ivan Simonovis becomes the first and most famous political prisoner in Venezuela, a 15-year period of imprisonment leaves devastating effects on his and his family’s lives. Living in exile as a filmmaker, his son Ivan Andrés crafts a very personal and moving story, using over 25 years of unique family material, showing history from an angle never seen before. A family that had to overcome extreme hardship, a father that has to find his place in life again and a son that faces his traumas by inviting the viewer into the core of a wound that touched both his family and his entire country.
Director
Status
Released
Original Language
ES

Directed by Alfredo Anzola, Manuel (1979) is a Venezuelan drama that explores themes of love, faith, and resistance. The story follows Aparicio and his wife, Alma Rosa, as they welcome a new priest, Manuel, to their coastal village. As Manuel becomes acquainted with the community, he discovers that the village is slated for demolition to make way for a tourist development. Deeply moved by the villagers' plight, Manuel joins the local fishermen in their struggle to defend their land. During this time, he also finds himself drawn to Alma Rosa, leading to personal and moral dilemmas. The developers, aware of Manuel's growing influence and his feelings for Alma Rosa, begin to monitor his actions closely. The film delves into the complexities of human relationships and the fight against displacement.

The film is divided into two episodes, The Hair of Disgrace and The Magician, both focusing on the theme of the occult and beliefs.