El destierro del Cid

About This Movie

So, 'El destierro del Cid' is this fascinating little documentary from 1960, directed by Jesus Franco, though his name doesn’t usually pop up in the same discussions as other filmmakers of his era. The tone is quite somber, reflecting on themes of exile and identity, which ties into the historical figure of El Cid. You can feel Franco's style peeking through, with an atmospheric quality that lends itself well to the subject matter. Pacing feels almost hypnotic at times, as it drags you into a contemplative space. The use of practical effects really gives it a raw edge, and there’s something about the performances that feels genuine, adding layers to the narrative. It’s definitely a unique artifact of its time.

El destierro del Cid has become a bit of a rarity in collector circles, not least because of its limited release and the obscurity of its director, Jesus Franco. While not widely known, it piques interest for its exploration of historical themes. There are few formats available, often just standard releases, which adds to its scarcity. Those who appreciate Franco's idiosyncratic approach will likely find value in this film, despite its short runtime.