Exploring 'Afternoons of Solitude': The Complexities of Bullfighting

In his latest documentary, "Afternoons of Solitude," Spanish director Albert Serra offers an unflinching portrayal of bullfighting, a practice steeped in cultural tradition yet rife with ethical controversy. Released on July 18, 2025, the film intricately follows renowned Peruvian matador Andrés Roca Rey, capturing both the ritualistic nature of the corrida and the brutal realities faced by the bulls. Serra's minimalist approach—characterized by long takes and intimate framing—invites viewers to confront the visceral aspects of this ancient spectacle without overt commentary or contextualization.

The film opens with a striking visual narrative, juxtaposing the elegance of Rey's performance with the stark violence of the bullfight. As noted by Robert Abele in the Los Angeles Times, Serra’s lens focuses on the “hushed, ornate rituals and gruesome realities” of the bullring, challenging audiences to reconcile their perceptions of bullfighting as either a revered tradition or a cruel blood sport. The documentary presents a duality that resonates throughout the film: the beauty of the art form contrasted with the horror of its implications.

Historically, bullfighting has been a contentious subject, drawing ire from animal rights activists while being celebrated by many as an integral part of Spanish culture. According to Dr. Laura Martinez, an anthropologist at the University of Barcelona, "Bullfighting is deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of Spain, symbolizing not just a sport but a complex ritual that reflects societal values and identity." This cultural significance, however, does not exempt it from scrutiny, as voices advocating for animal rights argue that the practice is fundamentally inhumane.

In his exploration of this duality, Serra captures the essence of Rey's relationship with the bulls, revealing a spiritual dimension that can be both meditative and horrific. The film’s title, "Afternoons of Solitude," hints at the contemplative state Rey enters as he prepares for his performances, underscoring the personal stakes involved in each encounter. As he dons his intricate costume, moments of prayer and reflection punctuate the preparation process, suggesting a deep reverence for the ritual at hand.

Critics have noted that the film's refusal to provide explicit commentary forces viewers to engage with the material on a visceral level. This approach aligns with Serra's established filmmaking style, which prioritizes mood and atmosphere over didactic storytelling. Artur Tort, Serra’s longtime cinematographer, employs tight framing and a muted color palette to enhance the documentary's emotional weight, often lingering on the moment of the bull's death—a choice that provokes a visceral reaction from the audience.

The documentary presents varying perspectives on bullfighting, from those who view it as a barbaric spectacle to others who perceive it as a noble art form. Industry expert Miguel Angel Perez, a bullfighting promoter, argues that "the corrida is a celebration of life and death, an event that connects us to our primal instincts and traditions." This viewpoint is countered by animal rights advocates like Dr. Emma Thompson, a veterinarian with the organization Animal Justice, who asserts that "no cultural tradition can justify the suffering inflicted on sentient beings. Bullfighting must be re-evaluated in light of contemporary values that prioritize animal welfare."

As the documentary unfolds, the film's immersive quality creates a space for contemplation, urging viewers to consider their own beliefs about the practice of bullfighting. The visceral experiences presented in "Afternoons of Solitude" serve not only as a reflection of the sport but also as an invitation to engage in a broader dialogue about tradition, morality, and the ethics of entertainment.

Looking ahead, the future of bullfighting remains uncertain. As societal values evolve and animal rights movements gain traction, cultural practices like bullfighting will face increasing scrutiny. The documentary’s release may further ignite discussions about the need for reform or even abolition of such traditions in the face of changing ethical standards. Serra’s film stands as a testament to the complexities surrounding bullfighting, capturing the tension between admiration and outrage, beauty and brutality, in a way that is both haunting and thought-provoking.

In conclusion, "Afternoons of Solitude" challenges viewers to grapple with the dualities inherent in bullfighting, making it a significant contribution to contemporary discussions about cultural practices that intersect with ethics and animal rights. As the film opens in theaters, it promises to evoke strong reactions and stimulate discourse on a topic that remains as contentious as ever.