Tehran's Arasbaran Cultural Center to Screen Award-Winning Film 'Sundays'

Tehran, Iran Jul 17, 2026 ALN: TEHRAN- The Arasbaran Cultural Center in Tehran is set to screen the 2025 drama film 'Sundays,' directed by Spanish filmmaker Alauda Ruiz de Azúa, this Sunday. Film critic Kourosh Jahed will attend the screening, followed by a review session. This event marks an important occasion for film enthusiasts and cultural connoisseurs in Tehran, as it provides a platform for international cinema and discussions surrounding contemporary themes in film.

'Sundays' is a masterful exploration of a young woman’s search for belonging and spiritual sanctuary. Set against the evocative backdrop of the Basque Country, the film delves into the psychological complexities of a teenage girl caught between the rigid expectations of her family and an intense, internal longing for a cloistered life. This exploration of faith, identity, and familial relationships resonates with audiences across various cultural contexts, highlighting universal themes of adolescence and self-discovery.

The narrative centers on 17-year-old Ainara, who, during a religious retreat, feels a profound calling to join a convent. This aspiration sets off a chain reaction within her fragmented family. Ainara’s father, Inaki—a widower and restaurant owner—is depicted as an aloof figure, more preoccupied with his business ventures than with his daughter's emotional well-being. This characterization reflects broader societal issues where parental figures often prioritize career and financial stability over nurturing their children's emotional needs, a theme that is particularly relevant in contemporary discussions about mental health and familial dynamics.

In contrast, her aunt Maite, an atheist cultural manager, represents the voice of worldly reason. Maite is horrified by Ainara’s desire for "vocational discernment," urging her niece to embrace the experiences of youth rather than retreating into a life of silence and prayer. This conflict between Maite and Ainara symbolizes the generational divide in understanding spirituality and personal fulfillment. It illustrates the tension between traditional values and modern secular perspectives, a topic that is increasingly pertinent in today’s rapidly changing cultural landscapes.

As Ainara navigates her spiritual journey under the guidance of Father Chema, the tension between her domestic reality and her divine aspirations heightens. The film skillfully portrays the friction of the Basque household: Maite’s marriage to Pablo is in crisis, and Inaki’s financial instability colors his perspective on Ainara's future. This depiction of familial strife is not merely a narrative device but a reflection of the real-life challenges many families face, particularly in regions grappling with economic uncertainty and shifting social norms.

The conflict reaches a boiling point during a moment of adolescent vulnerability when Ainara is caught in a romantic encounter with a fellow choir member, Mikel. The ensuing family row underscores the deep disconnect between Ainara’s internal world and the perceptions her family holds of her. This moment serves as a critical turning point in the film, emphasizing the struggle many young people face in reconciling their desires with the expectations imposed upon them by their families and society.

The tragedy of the film is heightened by the death of Ainara’s grandmother, Maria Dolores. This loss triggers a volatile explosion of rage from Maite, who reproaches Inaki for his financial failures and his perceived indifference toward his daughter. In a devastating confrontation, Maite views Ainara’s desire to become a nun not as a spiritual calling, but as a symptom of the emotional trauma following her mother's death. This interpretation of Ainara’s aspirations highlights the psychological complexities that often accompany grief and loss, illustrating how familial relationships can become strained in the face of tragedy.

The tension culminates in legal battles over inheritance and a heartbreaking rift that seems irreparable. Such conflicts are reflective of broader societal issues regarding inheritance laws and family dynamics, particularly in cultures where familial obligations and legacies play a significant role in individual identities. The film does not shy away from portraying these uncomfortable realities, making it a poignant commentary on the intersection of personal ambition and familial duty.

Despite the pleas of her family and the chaos of her home life, Ainara chooses the convent, taking her vows to become a cloistered nun. Her decision is not presented as a simple escape, but as a definitive act of self-determination in a world where she felt unseen. This choice resonates deeply with the audience, as it encapsulates the struggle for autonomy that many individuals face in oppressive or misunderstood environments. Ainara’s journey serves as a reminder of the importance of personal agency in the quest for identity and fulfillment.

The film was a monumental critical triumph, sweeping the awards circuit across Europe and Latin America. It debuted with a dominant victory at the 73rd San Sebastián International Film Festival, claiming the Golden Shell alongside the Irizar Basque Film, Feroz Zinemaldia, FIPRESCI, and SIGNIS awards. Its acclaim continued at the 40th Goya Awards, where it won Best Film, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay, while Patricia Lopez Arnaiz and Nagore Aranburu were honored for their outstanding acting. This recognition not only underscores the film's artistic merit but also highlights the growing appreciation for diverse narratives in cinema, particularly those that challenge traditional storytelling conventions.

The film’s success extended to the 13th Feroz Awards, the 81st CEC Medals, and the 5th Carmen Awards, cementing Alauda Ruiz de Azúa's status as a visionary director. Her ability to weave complex emotional narratives with rich cultural contexts has garnered her a dedicated following and critical acclaim. The international reach of 'Sundays' was further validated by nominations at the Platino and Sur Awards, and a win for Blanca Soroa for Best Actress at the 13th Platino Awards. These accolades reflect a broader trend in the film industry towards recognizing and celebrating female filmmakers and their unique perspectives, contributing to a more inclusive cinematic landscape.

As the screening approaches at the Arasbaran Cultural Center, it offers an opportunity for audiences in Tehran to engage with a film that not only entertains but also provokes thought and discussion about the complexities of faith, family, and personal identity. The presence of film critic Kourosh Jahed at the event further enriches the experience, promising insightful commentary and analysis that will enhance the audience's understanding of the film's themes and its cultural significance. In a time when global narratives are increasingly interconnected, 'Sundays' serves as a reminder of the power of film to bridge cultural divides and foster dialogue around shared human experiences.