Film Review: Carmen Maura Stars in 'Calle Málaga' as a Raw Portrait of Aging

The film 'Calle Málaga,' directed by Maryam Touzani, features actress Carmen Maura in a leading role that showcases her distinctive acting style, described as a personal revolution rather than traditional performance. Maura portrays an elderly woman living alone in Tangier, having moved there young to escape Spain's dictatorship, now widowed and settled into a routine of walks, memories, and neighborly chats. Her life is disrupted when her daughter, played by Marta Etura, visits from Madrid after a divorce, seeking financial help and considering drastic measures that could displace her mother. The narrative unfolds linearly, focusing on Maura's character reclaiming her autonomy by persuading an antique dealer, Ahmed Boulane, to return her sold belongings, symbolizing a return to self. Touzani, who co-wrote the script with Nabil Ayouch, crafts a story centered on aging as a taboo subject, with Maura's naturalistic portrayal emphasizing authenticity over artifice. The film runs for 116 minutes and is noted for its straightforward approach, though it occasionally leans into obvious themes. Released in 2026, it serves as a reflection on societal issues like elder care and personal integrity, highlighting Maura's ability to imbue roles with her own essence, making the character an extension of herself.