Moving, complex ‘Valley of Shadows’ explores culture clash in the Himalayas - review

A review of Salvador Calvo's film 'Valley of Shadows,' opening in Israel on Thursday. The movie follows Quique, a Spanish tourist who, after being beaten by bandits in the Himalayas, spends months in a remote village, gaining insight into the locals' lives. The review praises the film for avoiding stereotypes, highlighting its photography, performances, and nuanced portrayal of cultural clash.

Hannah Brown reviews Salvador Calvo's 'Valley of Shadows,' opening in Israel on Thursday. The film tells the story of Quique (Miguel Herran), a Spanish tourist who, while traveling with his girlfriend Clara (Susana Abaitua) and her son Lucas (Iván Renedo) in the Himalayas, is separated from them, beaten by bandits, and left for dead. A local trader rescues him and takes him to a mountain village, where he is treated in a monastery. He insists on reporting the crime to police, but learns he must wait months until the river freezes. The review praises the film for avoiding stereotypes, instead offering a nuanced portrayal of cultural clash. It highlights the performances, especially Alexandra Masangkay as Prana, and the spectacular photography. The review compares the film to works by Khyentse Norbu and Pawo Choyning Dorji, noting its low-key but effective script by Alejandro Hernandez.