Ep. 05-26: The Devil’s Backbone (2001)

After losing his father, 10-year-old Carlos arrives at the Santa Lucia School, which shelters orphans of the Republican militia and politicians, and is taken in by the steely headmistress, Carmen, and the kindly professor, Casares. Soon after his arrival, Carlos has a run-in with the violent caretaker, Jacinto. Gradually, Carlos uncovers the secrets of the school, including the youthful ghost that wanders the grounds.

We’re back in the gorgeous world of Guillermo Del Toro and our first foreign language feature. The Devil’s Backbone (2001), though relatively unknown to US audiences, is an exciting early glimpse into the mind of the visual storytelling auteur. Join us as we discuss the film’s origins, its Mexican-Spanish connection, and the universal impact of such a small, unique story. Listen, as Johnny Has the Keys journeys back to the Spanish Civil War where ghosts seek answers to the savageness of humanity. 

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