La infiltrada

Moving drama/thriller plenty of emotion , suspense , intrigue, plot twists, notable action scenes and real events about the dangerous Basque Country at the time. A police officer called Arantxa (Carolina Yuste) is assigned by her chief Ángel (Luis Tosar) to infiltrate herself into the terrorist organization in the worst years for Basque terrorist attacks. After spending several years infiltrating the circles of the Abertzale left as another young sympathizer of the terrorist group ETA, eventually, Arantxa gets what she was looking for: ETA contacts her. Arantxa's experience in the Basque Country is intense and dangerous and she has to hide her true identity, with the risk that if she is discovered she will suffer certain death.

Winner of the 2025 Goya for best film (shared with ¨El 47¨) and best actress (Carolina Yuste), this action thriller directed by Arantxa Echevarria is based on the true story of Aranzazu Berradere Marín, the pseudonym under which a national policewoman infiltrated the terrorist group ETA. A decent and well-paced film, though accasionally over-dramatized in terms of filmmaking, it displays tension, intrigue, intense drama and splendid performances. That's why ¨la Infiltrada¨ getting several Awards, Goya nominations, and other prizes as well as nominations in various national and international festivals. The main question of the film is: who could suspect that a woman was an infiltrator? So, fresh out of the police academy, our protagonist had to change her life completely, renounce her family and friends to infiltrate the circles of the Basque left and, six years later, gain access to ETA itself in order to dismantle the most bloodthirsty command: Donosti, led by Sergio Polo and Kepa Etxebarria. The picture depicts a nice portrayal about Basque Country, rarely has a feature been so aptly deserving of its description as a thriller picture along with some elements from action genre, politics , intense drama and bloody terrorism. ¨La Infiltrada (Undercover)¨ pays tribute to the State Security Forces, Police and Civil Guard, who spent decades to stop the terrorist organization ETA, sacrificing themselves and their families. Set in San Sebastian, it is a beautiful little city where a lot of wealthy Spanish people spend their summers, But here it is portrayed in a dark, grey and generally rainy way, with continuous demonstrations and bloody events such as the faithful recreation of the murder of the politician Gregorio Ordoñez, brutally shot at point-blank range. The weather reflects the mood; this isn't a feel-good movie. ETA is out of control, killing about a hundred people a year; in total, this evil organization killed almost a thousand people. Along with the two star-studded protagonists: Carolina Yuste and Luis Tosar who truly deserve all the awards they are receiving, there is a good cast of actors who also shine in their roles, such as: Nausicaa Bonnín, Victor Clavijo, Iñigo Gastesi, Diego Anido and Pedro Casablanc.

This appropriate and decent story about terrorism was directed compellingly by Arantxa Echevarría. Previously she made her successful film debut Carmen y Lola (2018) and shorts such as Don Enrique de Guzmán, De noche y de repente, Yo Presidenta, El último autobús, Panchito, 7 de Etheria and a documentary: Cuestión de Pelotas. Her second film was La familia perfecta 2021 and followed by television series such as Días mejores (2 episodes) and El Cid. And later making the also successful and multi-award-winning film: Chinas. While this ¨Undercover¨ also won several Goya awards and nominations such as: Cinematographic Writers Circle Awards, CEC Award Winner 2025 Best Film Arantxa Echevarría, CEC Award Winner Best Director, CEC Award Winner Best Actress Carolina Yuste, CEC Award Nominated Best Supporting Actress Nausicaa Bonnín, Luís Tosar CEC Award Winner Best Supporting Actor and several other awards and nominations at Fotogramas de Plata and Spanish Union of Actors Awards.

"La infiltrada" (2024) is a compelling example of modern Spanish cinema that excels in building suspense and emotional intensity. The film's standout quality lies in its masterful direction, which keeps the audience engaged and on edge from beginning to end. The cinematography is visually striking, using dynamic framing and lighting to create a gritty atmosphere that complements the tension of the narrative.

The performances are another key strength, particularly from the lead actor, whose portrayal brings depth and vulnerability to a complex character. The supporting cast also delivers, with nuanced performances that add layers of intrigue and authenticity.

What truly sets "La infiltrada" apart, however, is its clever pacing and the way it handles themes of loyalty, betrayal, and identity. The film refuses to give easy answers, instead drawing the audience into a web of moral ambiguity that keeps you questioning motivations and alliances. It also benefits from a sharp script with dialogue that feels organic, contributing to the film's immersive quality.

Overall, "La infiltrada" is a gripping, atmospheric thriller that successfully balances tension with character development, making it a standout in this year's international film lineup.

Some films keep you on edge, but La infiltrada goes even further. It's not just the tension of a well-constructed thriller; it's the constant feeling of real danger, of being trapped in an impossible situation without knowing if the protagonist will make it out. From the very first minute, the story grabs hold of you and never lets go.

Carolina Yuste is incredible. Her character carries an overwhelming pressure, and she conveys it effortlessly-no need for grand gestures. A single look or silence is enough to reveal everything she's feeling. The film puts you in her shoes, making you feel her fear and emotional exhaustion as the stakes get higher. Knowing that it's based on real events makes it all the more impactful.

The pacing is perfect. There are no filler scenes or moments where the tension eases. Every situation feels like a ticking time bomb, and the weight of the protagonist's double life becomes unbearable. By the time the ending arrives, the emotional buildup is so intense that tears are almost inevitable. La infiltrada is a raw, direct, and suffocating thriller that stays with you long after it's over.

There is literally nothing wrong with this film. The acting is fantastic, the directing is great and the music helps create lots of tension. It deserves all the awards, especially for Carolina Yuste, the lead actress. There are plenty of opportunities for the movie to fall into cliche, hyperbole or gratuitous sex/violence but it doesn't take the low road at any point. The characters are nuanced and the tension is created though some great performances, an effective score and great directing. I don't know if the film will be available to watch in the UK/US but, if it is, it's worth seeing at the cinema.

"La infiltrada" is a film based on true events that crudely and authentically portrays one of the darkest periods in recent history, marked by terrorism. The plot follows a woman, played by Carolina Juste, who infiltrates a dangerous terrorist group known as ETA to gather crucial information that helps the authorities dismantle the group and prevent attacks. In her mission, she is forced to leave her family behind and fully immerse herself in an environment of distrust, violence, and betrayal, risking her life at every moment.

From the beginning, the film manages to capture the tension and constant danger that the protagonist lives in. Carolina Juste's performance is outstanding, conveying not only her character's fear and anguish but also her courage and determination. Luis Tosar, in turn, brings his usual powerful presence to the screen, enriching a plot already loaded with emotion and realism.

One of the most notable aspects of "La infiltrada" is its realism. The film does not simply offer a story of action or espionage; it shows in detail the complex dynamics within the terrorist group, as well as the personal and emotional challenges the protagonist faces as she acts against her principles and personal life. The setting and direction successfully transport the viewer to that era, making them feel the pressure and fear that were so prevalent during those years.

In conclusion, "La infiltrada" is an intense and well-executed film that not only offers a fascinating view of a true story but also stands out for its ability to keep the audience on the edge of their seat throughout. With brilliant performances, especially from Carolina Juste and Luis Tosar, the film is a work that not only entertains but also invites reflection on the personal and moral sacrifices made in the name of justice.