Gaua (The Night)

What it’s about

In 17th-century Basque Country, Kattalin escapes her farmhouse at night and runs into the deep forest. A presence stalks her, and she barely evades a terrifying creature. She then encounters three older women washing clothes by the river, who begin telling her scary stories in which she recognizes herself.

What hooks you

Paul Urkijo Alijo directs Yune Nogueiras as Kattalin, with Elena Irureta, Ane Gabarain, and Iñake Irastorza as the three women. The film earned Goya nominations for costume design, makeup and hairstyling, and special effects, and draws on Basque mythology and folklore.

Who it’s for

It is worth a look for anyone who enjoys folk horror rooted in regional legends, dark fairy-tale atmospheres, and stories where the supernatural reflects inner turmoil.