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Plot Summary

Discover the intricate plot of The Endless Trench (2020). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.


In 1936, at the onset of the Spanish Civil War, a newlywed man who has voiced his criticism against the Nationalist army and government finds himself fearing for his life, worried that he may be targeted in a series of reprisal killings. With the looming danger, he seeks refuge in his own home, hiding under the floor thanks to his devoted wife, Rosa. The first segment of his journey, titled “campeada” (to run), reveals the harrowing experience he endures as he evades his pursuers.

As the story unfolds into the section called “esconder” (to hide), tragedy strikes as he faces betrayal from a neighbor, prompting him to relocate to a trench beneath the kitchen. This transformation leads us into the “detención” (temporary loss of freedom) phase, wherein the couple begins to speculate about a potential Republican victory in the war—a mere fantasy that helps them cope with their dire reality.

As the narrative continues to unravel in the Peligro (danger) segment, the political tempest escalates, culminating in the arrest of Higinio’s wife, Rosa, who steadfastly refuses to disclose her husband’s whereabouts. The isolation felt by Higinio grows in Encerrar (shut down), as he grapples with confinement, all while Rosa experiences her own trials. Pregnant either with Higinio’s child or that of a policeman who previously assaulted her, the family’s situation grows increasingly complex. Amid their struggles, Higinio forms a friendship with two men who come to stay at their home.

In the Apartado (remote) section, Higinio’s world begins to shrink, and he feels the weight of loneliness pressing upon him. He peeks out at the world only through the cracks of their hiding place, straining to catch news through the radio and TV. The Cambiar (change) and Franco (frank) chapters depict Higinio’s transformation as the birth of their son, Jaime, prompts reflections on the necessity of coming out of hiding. Rosa encourages him, reminding him of the family’s urgent need for his presence.

Higinio’s eventual struggle becomes apparent when his wife and son question his decision to remain concealed, revealing that many in the neighborhood are aware of his presence beneath their home. However, bound by the comforts of isolation, he finds it increasingly difficult to ascend from his hiding place.

The chapter Desenterrar finds Higinio contemplating the idea of emerging back into the world, and a landmark moment occurs in 1969 when the Franco government announces an amnesty, lifting some of the burdens of his past. Yet, accustomed to his secluded existence, leaving the trench remains a daunting prospect.

Finally, in Salir (go out), the story takes a pivotal turn as Rosa threatens to abandon Higinio, underscoring his paralyzing fear. This ultimatum acts as a catalyst, pushing him to confront his long-held anxieties and prompting a daring escape from the confines of his hiding spot, ultimately joining other “topos” (moles) who have chosen to reveal themselves once more.

Timeline

Track the key events of The Endless Trench (2020) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.


Spanish Civil War Begins

In 1936, the Spanish Civil War emerges, creating a division in the country and leading to widespread political struggles. Amidst this turmoil, individuals are forced to confront their beliefs and face the consequences of their actions.

1936

Hiding Begins

A newlywed man, critical of the Nationalist government, fears for his life due to targeted reprisal killings. With the help of his devoted wife, Rosa, he finds refuge in their home, hiding beneath the floor to escape his pursuers.

Betrayal from a Neighbor

In the 'esconder' phase, Higinio faces a devastating betrayal from a neighbor that forces him to relocate to a trench located beneath the kitchen. This betrayal adds to the tension and danger surrounding their already perilous situation.

Speculating Political Outcomes

The couple begins to grapple with their reality, hoping for a Republican victory in the war. Their speculation serves as a coping mechanism to endure the pressures of their confinement and the uncertainty of their future.

Rosa's Arrest

The political climate intensifies, culminating in Rosa's arrest when she refuses to divulge her husband's hiding location. This moment marks a significant escalation in Higinio's fears and the couple's struggle against the oppressive regime.

Isolation and Complexity

As Higinio faces his own isolation, Rosa endures her own hardships, complicating their family dynamic further. The possibility of Rosa being pregnant adds another layer of anxiety as they navigate their precarious situation.

Loneliness Presses In

In the 'Apartado' section, Higinio's world becomes increasingly constricted, and he feels engulfed by loneliness. He attempts to catch snippets of news from the outside world through small openings in their hiding place.

Birth of Their Son

The arrival of their son, Jaime, becomes a turning point for Higinio, prompting him to reflect on the necessity of coming out of hiding. Rosa encourages Higinio to consider the family's urgent needs despite his fears.

Questioning Confinement

Higinio's internal struggle heightens as both his wife and son challenge his decision to remain hidden. This confrontation shines a light on the reality that many in their neighborhood are aware of his existence beneath their home.

Contemplating Exposure

In the 'Desenterrar' chapter, Higinio considers the idea of re-emerging into society, especially after the Franco government announces an amnesty in 1969. The notion of leaving the trench becomes increasingly daunting for him.

1969

Rosa's Ultimatum

As tensions mount, Rosa issues a grave ultimatum, threatening to leave Higinio if he does not confront his fears. This pivotal moment acts as a catalyst for Higinio to finally consider breaking free from his long-held confinement.

The Daring Escape

In the finale, Higinio is compelled to make a daring escape from his hiding place. His journey symbolizes not only personal liberation but also a collective awakening as he joins other 'topos' who have bravely chosen to reveal themselves.

Characters

Meet the characters that bring The Endless Trench (2020) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.


Higinio (Antonio de la Torre)

Higinio is a newlywed man whose outspoken criticism of the Nationalist army forces him into hiding during the Spanish Civil War. His character is marked by resilience and fear, showcasing the psychological struggles of living in constant danger. As the narrative progresses, Higinio's internal conflicts between the safety of isolation and the need for freedom come to a head, highlighting his journey of self-discovery.

🧔 Man 🚪 Hiding 📜 Conflict

Rosa (Belén Cuesta)

Rosa is Higinio's supportive wife who passionately stands by him during his time in hiding. Her unwavering loyalty becomes increasingly tested as she faces her own traumas, including her pregnancy and the threat of arrest. Rosa embodies strength and determination, serving as both a source of hope and a reminder of the harsh realities of their situation.

👩 Woman 💕 Love 🐣 Courage

Jaime (Adrián Fernández)

Jaime, the newborn son of Higinio and Rosa, represents hope for the future amid their dire circumstances. His arrival serves as a pivotal moment in the story, motivating Higinio to confront his fears and consider emerging from hiding. Jaime symbolizes innocence and the enduring nature of family bonds even in the face of adversity.

👶 Baby 🌟 Hope 🏡 Family

Setting

Uncover the settings of The Endless Trench (2020), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.


Time period

1936-1969

The movie spans a significant period from the onset of the Spanish Civil War in 1936 to the announcement of an amnesty by the Franco government in 1969. This time frame is characterized by intense political conflict, repression, and personal tragedies that deeply affect the characters. The struggle for survival amid societal upheaval highlights the resilience and despair of individuals during this era.

Location

Spain

The setting of the movie is predominantly in Spain during the Spanish Civil War, a tumultuous time in the country's history. The primary location is the couple's home, specifically beneath the floorboards and in a trench where Higinio hides from the dangers outside. The environment is marked by fear and repression, reflecting the country's political turmoil and the personal struggles of those living through it.

🇪🇸 Spanish Civil War 🏠 Home 🕳️ Trench

Themes

Explore the core themes of The Endless Trench (2020). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.


🕵️‍♂️

Hiding

The theme of hiding is central to the movie, as Higinio's entire existence revolves around evading capture. His journey illustrates the psychological toll of living in fear and the lengths one will go to protect oneself and loved ones. This theme resonates throughout his struggle, showing the physical and emotional constraints of confinement.

❤️

Love and Betrayal

The movie also explores love intertwined with betrayal, as demonstrated by Higinio's relationship with Rosa, his devoted wife. Their bond is tested through the trials of war and the looming threat of betrayal from those they trust. The complexities of their love narrative reveal both strength and vulnerability in their partnership.

🔒

Isolation

Isolation becomes a profound theme as Higinio grapples with the consequences of his decision to hide. The psychological impact of separation from society and the mounting loneliness experienced magnify the character's internal conflict. This theme underscores the broader human experience of solitude amid turmoil.

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