Palm Trees in the Snow (2015)

“Palm Trees in the Snow” (2015), directed by Fernando González Molina and based on the 2012 novel Palmeras en la nieve by Luz Gabás, is a captivating Spanish romantic drama that spans generations, blending love, history, and personal discovery. The film takes viewers on an emotional journey through the lush landscapes of Spain and the mountains of Equatorial Guinea, intertwining themes of family, cultural identity, and the lingering effects of colonialism. With its stunning cinematography, a gripping storyline, and powerful performances, “Palm Trees in the Snow” is a poignant exploration of the complexities of love and the passage of time.
The story unfolds across two timelines: one set in the 1950s and the other in the 2000s. In the modern-day timeline, a young Spanish woman named Clarence (played by Macarena García) discovers a letter and an old photograph from her late father, which leads her on a journey to uncover the truth about her family’s past. This discovery prompts Clarence to travel to the remote village of her father’s youth in Equatorial Guinea, where she learns about the deep love story between her father and a local African woman, along with the painful history of Spain’s colonial presence in the region. As Clarence delves deeper into her family’s hidden history, the film takes us back to the 1950s, where the earlier events of her father’s life, including his forbidden love affair, are revealed.
At the heart of the film is the passionate and forbidden love between Clarence’s father, Kilian (Mario Casas), and a local African woman named Bisila (Berta Vázquez). Their love blossoms in the midst of Spain’s colonial rule over Equatorial Guinea, a relationship that is fraught with both racial and cultural tensions. Kilian, a young man from the Spanish colonial elite, finds himself torn between his loyalty to his family and his growing love for Bisila, a woman who represents everything that Spanish society considers forbidden. The film poignantly depicts their struggles, showcasing the profound emotional connection between them amidst the stark racial divisions and colonial structures of the time.