Carla Simón's 'Romería' Explores Family Secrets and Memory

Carla Simón's new film 'Romería' follows an orphaned teenager uncovering truths about her parents' past on her journey to becoming a filmmaker. The semi-autobiographical drama, set in 2004, stars Llúcia Garcia as Marina, an 18-year-old who seeks her parents' death certificates to study filmmaking in Barcelona, leading her to reconnect with estranged relatives. Simón, 39, draws from her own experience losing both parents to AIDS—her father when she was three, her mother when she was six. The film is loosely based on trips Simón made at 18 to Madrid and at 29 to Galicia to reunite with her father's family. 'Romería' features non-professional actors, with Garcia cast from 3,000 hopefuls. A third-act twist sees Garcia playing both Marina and her mother. The film includes a dream sequence where Marina time-travels to 1984, meeting young versions of her parents. Simón allowed surviving family members to read the script; an uncle cameos as a notary. The screenplay began with letters written by Simón's mother, providing insight into 1980s Spanish youth culture during 'La Movida' and the subsequent heroin and AIDS crises. Cinematographer Hélène Louvart shot the film. Simón's next project is a flamenco musical. 'Romería' is out in UK cinemas on 8 May.