it is a form of parable. piece of long exorcism of Spain against its past shadows. a film like a puzzle of references. art resistance, moral choices, adventure, burlesque, compromises and truth, love and life and dream. all under the precise art of Carlos Saura tools. part of a chain, it is different. not only for extraordinary performance of Carmen Maura but for courage to not be only a Spanish story. the three flags, the prisoners, the school, theater, maybe the map are clues for define a deep European crisis and confrontation with the past. and that is the essence of this splendid movie - to open doors, to transform a past story in present reflection, to be a testimony and, in same measure, an invitation to discover the best choice in dark periods.