A Toasty Drama in the Heart of Tangier

Who says life doesn't come with a touch of zest, a pinch of puckish humor, and an entire serving of warmth? Let's dive into the cozy world of Maria Angeles, brilliantly brought to life by the virtuoso Carmen Maura, in the inviting heart of Tangier. She welcomes you into her quaint apartment, filled with scarlet geraniums and memories captured on picture-filled walls, in Maryam Touzani’s delightful drama, "Calle Malaga."

"Drama queen" doesn't begin to cover Maura's powerhouse performance, which has echoed in the corridors of cinema ever since her early days with Pedro Almodóvar. This is not Almodóvar territory, no, but it is a showcase that gives Maura the attention she deserves, and boy does she shine, radiating a charisma that demands attention.

Touzani captures Maura perfectly, demonstrating mastery in how to capture that exceptional screen presence without overshadowing it. The colorful tale allows Maura to shine, resulting in an emotionally-rich film that leaves you with just a wee lump in the throat, designed to appeal to a wide audience post its premiere in Venice's new Spotlight section.

The film whisks us away to Tangier, a Spanish hub of the 1930s and Maria Angeles' lifelong home. The vibe of the city seeps off the screen as we follow Maria Angeles through vibrant cobbled streets, aromatic marketplaces, and Latin Jazz-filled cooking sessions, painting an ideal golden age.

But not everyone is enamored with Tangier's allure. The appearance of Maria Angeles' daughter, Clara, is initially joyous until her intentions of selling Maria Angeles' beloved apartment due to monetary difficulties are revealed. Faced with the choice of relocation or moving into a local nursing home, Maria Angeles chooses the less drastic measure. But it doesn't take us long to discover that this is not where she belongs.

With no roof over her head, Maria decides to reclaim her old home, charming local dealer Abslam into helping her in her bid. As we see their relationship blossoming, the storyline might not be brimming with unexpected twists, but it's certainly served with a side of community spirit and general geniality.

This charming tale isn’t quite as punchy as similar dramas, but it captures the essence of a woman who is steadfastly herself in all life's trials. Maura's performance as Maria Angeles is magnetic and endearingly zany, overshadowing the rest of the cast, creating a thirst for more nuanced depth within the mother-daughter dynamic and a defined conclusion.

In its essence, "Calle Malaga" focuses on capturing the human spirit, the enduring love for home, and presenting an enchanting character who has a knack for making you smile, even amidst a tale of resilient defiance.