Errementari: The Blacksmith and the Devil (2017)
Errementari: The Blacksmith and the Devil (2017) is a Spanish fantasy horror film directed by Paul Urkijo Alijo. The movie is loosely based on a short story from the Basque Country’s folklore, bringing to life a dark and atmospheric tale that blends mythology, horror, and fantasy.
Set in the Basque Country in the 19th century, the story revolves around a blacksmith named Patxi (played by Kandido Uranga), who has a dark past. He is haunted by a violent encounter with the Devil himself (played by Ramón Agirre) after an event that leads to the blacksmith imprisoning the Devil in his forge. As a result, Patxi is isolated, both emotionally and physically, from the rest of the village, and rumors of his cruel dealings with the supernatural begin to spread.
The plot intensifies when a young orphan girl, Aitor, comes to Patxi’s forge looking for work. She unknowingly becomes involved in a dangerous situation when she discovers the blacksmith’s secret: the Devil is trapped in his forge, trying to manipulate events from the inside to regain his freedom. As the tension rises, both the blacksmith and the girl are pulled into a moral and supernatural battle against the Devil’s dark influence.
Errementari has been praised for its unique take on classic folklore, blending elements of dark fantasy with horror in an engaging and visually memorable way. The film has a distinct tone, reminiscent of fairy tales but with a much darker, more mature edge. Critics have highlighted its beautiful set designs, striking visuals, and the strong performances of the cast, particularly Kandido Uranga’s portrayal of the tortured blacksmith.