While at War (2019)
Mientras dure la guerra
Film details
Drama · History · War · Alejandro Amenábar · 1h 48min
Synopsis
Salamanca, Spain, 1936. In the early days of the military rebellion that began the Spanish Civil War (1936-39), writer Miguel de Unamuno supports the uprising in the hope that the prevailing political chaos will end. But when the confrontation becomes bloody, Unamuno must question his initial position.
Verdict
Profound historical drama about moral conscience and truth in the Civil War. Discretionary due to moderate violence.
In-depth analysis
While the War Lasts rigorously portrays the inner dilemma of Miguel de Unamuno at the dawn of the Spanish Civil War. The writer, initially a supporter of the uprising to restore order, confronts the bloody reality of the conflict and its evolution towards destructive fanaticism. The film highlights Unamuno's iconic act at the University of Salamanca, where he defends intelligence and compassion against Millán Astray's warmongering cry: '¡Viva la muerte!'. This climax illustrates the clash between truth and power, virtue and barbarism. Unamuno's family life is shown as an anchor of stability, with his wife and daughters representing the bonds that sustain the man in the storm. Christian faith emerges naturally in his prayer and reflections, without dogmatism, as a source of moral strength. There are no romanticisms or concessions: the work exposes the consequences of ideological error, the suffering of innocents, and the solitude of the prophet in his time. Visually sober, with masterful performances by Karra Elejalde and Eduard Fernández, it invites us to meditate on personal responsibility and the cost of coherence. For parents, it is a living lesson on raising children in ethical discernment, far from easy slogans. It requires maturity due to scenes of executions and war tensions, but it enriches with its defense of the common good and human dignity.