Language Lab: Vasil

Ana Valbuena from the Instituto Cervantes Manchester presents our bespoke study session for adult Spanish language learners and film fans. Following an introduction in accessible Spanish, and a full screening of Vasil with English subtitles, attendees can practise their Spanish language skills using a specially designed Study Pack, discussing topics such as: identity and economic migration, privilege and discrimination, community and human connection.

Conversational Spanish recommended.

Synopsis: 

Vasil is a street-homeless Bulgarian immigrant in a well-heeled Spanish town. Intelligent and charismatic, through his talent for chess and bridge he makes a name for himself at an exclusive and prestigious club in the city, despite being homeless. Taciturn retiree Alfredo offers his sofa to the young Bulgarian and a classic odd-couple friendship develops, though they seem to share little in common beyond their passion for chess. Vasil slowly breaks down the barriers put up by Alfredo, because Vasil has a gift: he makes a difference to the lives of people he connects with.

Avelina Prat’s debut feature is a heart-warming and gentle drama that highlights socially and politically relevant topics around economic migration, privilege, discrimination, community and human connection.