International films have always seemed like a box of chocolates to me; you never know what you'll get. And that's the case with Errementari: The Blacksmith and the Devil.
This Spanish film is based on an old Basque folklore, which does help explain some of the "interesting" leaps in logic the movie makes. This movie definitely doesn't follow the typical Hollywood formula, for better or for worse. The upside is the aforementioned "Gump Effect," and the variety it brings.
You're never quite sure how this movie is going to tell its story. Sometimes it's subtle and serious, or sometimes it's over-the-top goofy. While this does make for an engaging viewing experience, these mood swings also make the movie seem unfocused and unsure of what it wants to be.
The most fun result of this scattershot directing approach is the film's depiction of the Devil. Instead of being a cliche and hiding him in the shadows, we see an actual guy in a red suit with the tail and pitchfork to match. He hams it up big time, and acts closer to the ancient interpretation of Satan; the mischievous trickster instead of the lord of all evil we know today. He's the highlight of this movie for me.
Overall, I don't think this movie had the wrong idea with its mix of tones and contrasting ideas. The problem arises when you don't mix these ingredients properly, and you get a weird battle of flavors. Regardless, I recommend it for its variety. I guess that means it's a Good.
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