Auteur filmmaker Jaime Rosales softens his experimental edges with his most accessible film to date, bringing the atmosphere of Greek tragedy to contemporary Spain in this portrait of a broken family suffering the consequences of secrets, lies and violence.

Petra is a young woman who has never known who her father is. After the death of her mother, she embarks on a quest to uncover his identity – a journey that leads her to Jaume, a famous artist and a powerful, ruthless man (remarkably portrayed by first time actor Joan Botey). She begins a residency to study under him on his sprawling rural estate, where her story entwines with Marisa, Jaume's wife, and their son Lucas – but as Petra delves deeper for the truth, the family are caught in a spiral of malice and secrets.

Playing out in a non-chronological order, the story teases flashes of foresight and hindsight that give an understanding of interplay between past and present for these sharply drawn characters. With breathtaking shots that glide gracefully over the rural scenery, and sterling performances from a superb cast, Petra is a psychologically and visually lush exploration of a woman’s quest for paternity.

Part of ¡Viva! Spanish & Latin American Festival 2019 tour, presented by HOME, Manchester, with the support of the BFI, awarding funds from The National Lottery.

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