The Wailing

The Wailing (2024), directed by Pedro Martín-Calero, is a bold venture into psychological horror that stands out for its unique approach and deeply rooted exploration of the female experience. Co-written by Martín-Calero and Isabel Peña, the film weaves a fragmented narrative around three women — Andrea (Ester Expósito), Camila (Malena Villa), and Marie (Mathilde Ollivier) — bound together by an invisible presence haunting them across time and space.

The film’s non-linear structure, while challenging, is a deliberate choice reflecting the complexity of the protagonists’ experiences. Each segment offers a unique perspective on female suffering and resistance, tackling themes such as invisible violence and the fight against oppressive systems. Martín-Calero’s direction is marked by refined visual aesthetics and a tension-building style that avoids typical genre clichés, creating an oppressive atmosphere that permeates the entire work.

The performances by the main cast are remarkable, with Ester Expósito, Mathilde Ollivier, and Malena Villa delivering intense and emotionally charged portrayals that capture their characters’ core essence. Cinematographer Constanza Sandoval complements the narrative through the interplay of light and shadow, emphasizing the threatening presence stalking the protagonists.

While the film powerfully reflects on female suffering and resilience, its fragmented narrative may disorient some viewers. However, this unconventional structure is an artistic choice that reinforces the film’s central message, making it a significant work within contemporary psychological horror cinema.



The Wailing (El llanto, 2024 / Spain, France, Argentina)
Director: Pedro Martín-Calero
Screenplay: Pedro Martín-Calero and Isabel Peña
Main cast: Ester Expósito, Mathilde Ollivier, Malena Villa
Running time: 107 minutes