Espinazo del Diablo
Espinazo del Diablo
The Devil's Backbone
Video in Spanish with English subtitles, DVD in Spanish with optional English subtitles.
Spanish Lesson Plan
Introduction: Immerse your students in the haunting and captivating story of "Espinazo del Diablo" with our comprehensive Spanish lesson plan. Directed by Guillermo del Toro, this film offers a unique blend of historical drama and supernatural thriller, making it an exceptional resource for language learning and cultural exploration.
Film Summary: Twelve-year-old Carlos is the latest arrival at Santa Lucia School, an imposing stone building that shelters orphans of the Republican militia and politicians during the last days of the Spanish Civil War. Carlos gradually uncovers the dark ties that bind the inhabitants of the school: hidden riches, sexual intrigue, and the restless ghost of a murdered student. This film lends itself to discussions about bullying.
Additional Details: Released in 2001, "Espinazo del Diablo" stars Marisa Paredes, Eduardo Noriega, and Federico Luppi. The film is acclaimed for its atmospheric storytelling and has won multiple awards, including Best Director for Guillermo del Toro at the 2001 Ariel Awards. The DVD includes Spanish audio with optional English subtitles, making it accessible for language learners.
Suggested Dates for Classroom Use:
- October 9: Guillermo del Toro’s birthday, celebrating the director’s contributions
- November 1: Día de los Muertos, discussing themes of ghosts and the afterlife
- March 28: Anniversary of the film’s release, exploring its impact and themes
- April 14: Anniversary of the Spanish Civil War, providing historical context
Conclusion: Using "Espinazo del Diablo" in your classroom enhances language skills while providing deep insights into themes of war, mystery, and resilience. This lesson plan includes structured activities, discussion questions, and cultural notes to enrich the learning experience. Created for teachers, by teachers, our comprehensive lesson plans ensure you have all the resources needed for an engaging and educational classroom experience. IMDB
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Director: Guillermo del Toro
Cast: Marisa Paredes, Eduardo Noriega, Federico Luppi
Audio: Video in Spanish with English subtitles, DVD in Spanish with optional English subtitles.