Alone In The Night

Alone In The Night is a 1992 Spanish drama film directed by José Luis Garci, based on the real-life events of the Spanish Transition and the coup d'état attempt of February 23, 1981, known as 23F. The film takes place in Madrid and follows a group of young labor lawyers who, at the time, are part of the newly democratic government. On the night of February 22, 1981, a group of military officers, led by army general and politician Manuel Gutiérrez Mellado, plan to take over the government and restore the monarchy. The film opens with a view of the labor lawyers gathered at a house, enjoying and discussing a dinner party. The atmosphere is one of excitement and relief, as Spain had just transitioned from a dictatorship under General Franco to a democracy. However, unbeknownst to them, events are unfolding elsewhere that will force them to confront the fragility of their young democracy. As the night wears on, the lawyers, including Luis, the de facto leader, begin to hear rumors of a coup d'état in the making. At first, they dismiss these rumors as mere speculation, but as the night progresses, the atmosphere in the house becomes increasingly tense and uncertain. It becomes clear that the rumors are true, and a group of military officers has indeed planned a takeover of the government. As the hours tick by, the lawyers struggle to decide what to do. Some advocate for fleeing the country, hoping to escape the chaos and bloodshed they foresee. Others argue that they cannot abandon their duties and the democratic government in such a time of need. Luis, who is seen as a leader by the group, tries to mediate the debate and finds himself torn between his desire to protect his friends and colleagues and his sense of duty to Spain's democracy. Meanwhile, outside the house, the military officers lead a coup d'état attempt, storming the Congress of Deputies and attempting to arrest key members of the government. However, the coup ultimately fails due to the bravery and actions of Captain Antonio Tejero, a guardia civil officer who refuses to carry out the attempted takeover, and the leadership of General Manuel Gutiérrez Mellado who resists the coup. As news of the failed coup reaches the house, the lawyers are filled with a mix of emotions - relief, guilt, and a sense of uncertainty. They realize that their young democracy has been threatened, and they must now decide whether to stay and fight for what they believe in or flee and abandon the people they have sworn to protect. The film's climax takes place as the lawyers are left to grapple with the consequences of their inaction or their decision to stay. In the end, the group decides to stay in the house, choosing to defend Spain's democracy rather than fleeing the country. Through their actions and the events that unfold, the film highlights the resilience and the courage of the Spanish people, who stood up to the military coup and protected their young democracy. Throughout the film, the tension builds as the lawyers struggle to come to terms with the reality of the situation. The cinematography is stark and realistic, emphasizing the claustrophobia and desperation that pervades the house. The performances are also noteworthy, as the actors bring to life the complex emotions and motivations of the characters. Overall, Alone In The Night is a gripping drama that highlights the fragility and strength of democracy. Through its portrayal of real events, the film sheds light on the Spanish Transition and the resilience of the Spanish people in the face of adversity.