The 2025 HSBC Spanish Film Festival opened at Palace Nova Cinemas in Adelaide with “Samana Sunrise (Amanece en Samana), a vibrant Spanish-Dominican rom-com directed by Rafa Cortes. The film takes you to a tropical getaway that quickly unravels into a tangled web of revelations and emotional upheaval.

Set against the lush backdrop of Samana in the Dominican Republic, the story follow two long-time Spanish couples, Ale and Santi (Maria Luisa Mayoi and Luis Tosar), and Natalia and Mario (Barbara Santa-Cruz and Luis Zahera) as they celebrate two decades of friendship with a beachside holiday. What begins as a carefree reunion takes a sharp turn when Ale confesses to a past deception that led to their current relationships, triggering a cascade of self-examination and unexpected consequences.

The ensemble cast delivers compelling performances, with Mayol’s portrayal of Ale standing out as she navigates the complexities of guilt and hope. Tosar and Zahera embrace the film’s comedic elements, which Santa-Cruz adds depth to the ensemble.

Visually, the film is a feast for the eyes. The cinematographer captures the idyllic scenery of Samana, contrasting the serene environment with the escalating tensions among the characters. As the narrative progresses, the camera work becomes more intimate, reflecting the characters’ internal conflicts and the unravelling of their relationships.

While Samana Sunrise offers a refreshing take on the complexities of long-term relationships and the unforeseen consequences of past actions, some of the plot’s progression and resolution lacked coherence. While the film was authentically performed, there were occasional narrative inconsistencies that could have benefited from a more structured storyline.

Nevertheless, Samana Sunrise provides a thought-provoking exploration of friendship, love, and the delicate balance between truth and harmony. Its blend of humour and drama, coupled with strong performances and stunning visuals, makes it a noteworthy and charming opening for the festival.

The HSBC Spanish Film Festival in on in Adelaide from June – July 2025. Check out the schedule here.