The strength of Madrid, 1987 relies entirely on its two lead actors, both of whom have strong reputations recognized by IMDb credits.
Written and directed by , the film premiered at the 2011 San Sebastián International Film Festival . Trueba utilizes the limited setting to build intense psychological tension.
The duo meets at a cafe and later moves to a secluded studio apartment for an interview. Due to a faulty door lock, they accidentally become trapped together in a small, windowless bathroom while entirely unclothed. This confinement strips away their social defenses, forcing them into a raw, verbal duel about life, aging, sex, politics, and the shifting landscape of Spain. Performance on IMDb
They are forced to spend the next 24 hours together with no way out. Madrid 1987 Imdb
Exploring "Madrid, 1987" on IMDb: A Deep Dive into David Trueba's Intense Chamber Drama
Analytical Sections
The film centers around two brothers, Antonio (played by José Luis García Pérez) and Ulises (played by Antonio Velázquez), who find themselves at a crossroads in their lives. The story unfolds in 1987, a pivotal time for Spain as it continued to navigate the complexities of post-Franco democracy. The brothers are tasked with caring for a woman named Juana (played by Carolina Bang), who has been involved in a tragic accident. As they become more entwined in Juana's life, the brothers embark on a journey of personal growth and exploration, challenging their perceptions of family, love, and their own identities. The strength of Madrid, 1987 relies entirely on
As of April 2026, the film is noted for its daring, claustrophobic atmosphere. On , it is often described by users as: Madrid, 1987 (2011)
Upon its release, "Madrid 1987" received a mixed but generally positive reception from critics. The film was praised for its rich character development, the atmospheric depiction of Madrid, and the nuanced performances of its lead actors. However, some critics noted that the film's pacing and certain narrative choices might detract from its overall impact. Despite these mixed reviews, "Madrid 1987" has garnered a dedicated following and is appreciated for its thoughtful exploration of human relationships and the quest for meaning.
, a young student who matches the older man’s cynicism with her own quiet intentions. Critical Reception and Ratings The duo meets at a cafe and later
The film generally maintains a rating around 6.4 to 6.6 out of 10 on IMDb. This score reflects its polarizing nature; viewers who enjoy fast-paced action often find it slow, while fans of minimalist theater and deep dialogue rate it highly.
Summary
Characterized by "verbose discourse" and sharp, intellectual dialogue. Critic Reception Reviews on IMDb's Metacritic section describe it as: