There is, after all, a reckoning for Maria’s situation we can’t help but keep in the back of our mind. Because our first brief glimpse of Clara is a sympathetic one, we know “Calle Málaga” won’t settle for a tidy resolution.

There are some heart-tugging scenes, but overall, this is the cinematic equivalent of a blissful weekend at the spa, a relaxing respite from the stressful news cycles of our times.

Yet, Touzani’s 'Calle Málaga’ is a reminder to savor the days we have in the places and communities we hold dear.

A remarkable film that explores the deep subject of elder abuse while remaining light-hearted and full of hope. You will laugh, you will cry. This may well be one of the most underrated films of the year.