The Legacy of the Bones (2019) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The Legacy of the Bones (Legado en los huesos) is a Spanish thriller directed by Fernando González Molina. It’s the second installment in the Baztán Trilogy, based on the popular novels by Dolores Redondo. Following the success of The Invisible Guardian (El guardián invisible), this film continues the gripping tale of Inspector Amaia Salazar (Marta Etura) as she delves deeper into the dark mysteries of the Baztán Valley. The movie combines elements of crime, supernatural folklore, and psychological tension, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
This review explores the film’s plot, performances, and thematic depth, and provides information on where to stream or rent The Legacy of the Bones online in the U.S.
Plot Overview
The Legacy of the Bones picks up where The Invisible Guardian left off. Inspector Amaia Salazar is still reeling from the traumatic events surrounding the investigation of a series of grisly murders in her hometown. As she returns to her work, she is faced with a new and disturbing case: a series of murders that seem to be connected to the previously investigated crimes and local legends of the Baztán Valley.
The story unfolds as Amaia grapples with personal demons and family secrets while trying to uncover the truth behind the killings. The murders appear to be linked to ancient pagan rituals and the dark history of the valley, adding a layer of supernatural intrigue to the investigation. As Amaia digs deeper, she encounters resistance from the local community and uncovers hidden connections between the current case and her own past.
The film’s narrative is driven by a blend of crime procedural elements and supernatural folklore, creating a suspenseful and immersive experience. The atmosphere of the Baztán Valley, with its misty landscapes and eerie ambiance, plays a crucial role in building the film’s tension and sense of foreboding.
A Dark and Atmospheric Thriller
Fernando González Molina’s direction in The Legacy of the Bones is marked by a strong sense of atmosphere and mood. The film effectively captures the haunting beauty of the Baztán Valley, using its natural landscapes to enhance the story’s dark and eerie tone. The cinematography, with its moody lighting and atmospheric shots, adds to the film’s suspense and helps create a sense of isolation and unease.
The narrative structure of the film is complex, weaving together multiple threads of mystery and suspense. The integration of local folklore and ancient rituals adds a layer of depth to the story, making it not just a crime thriller but also a study of cultural and historical themes. The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing for the gradual unfolding of the mystery and the development of its characters.
Performances: Marta Etura Leads with Gravitas
Marta Etura delivers a powerful performance as Inspector Amaia Salazar. Her portrayal of a determined and emotionally scarred investigator is both compelling and nuanced. Etura’s ability to convey Amaia’s inner turmoil and dedication to her work is central to the film’s emotional impact.
The supporting cast also contributes to the film’s success. Leonardo Sbaraglia plays a significant role in the story, and his performance adds depth to the complex web of relationships and motivations. Irene Escolar and Elvira Mínguez also provide strong performances, helping to flesh out the film’s rich character dynamics and interpersonal conflicts.
Themes: Folklore, Trauma, and Identity
The Legacy of the Bones explores several themes, including the influence of folklore on personal and collective identity, the impact of trauma, and the search for truth. The integration of local legends and ancient rituals into the plot adds a layer of cultural significance to the story, highlighting how folklore can shape and influence individuals and communities.
Trauma is another central theme, as Amaia Salazar’s past experiences and personal struggles play a significant role in the narrative. The film delves into the psychological effects of trauma and how it can influence a person’s actions and perceptions.
The search for truth is a driving force in the film, as Amaia seeks to uncover the connections between the murders and the historical and cultural elements of the Baztán Valley. The story raises questions about the nature of truth and the extent to which personal and cultural histories can shape and complicate the quest for answers.
Critical Reception
The Legacy of the Bones received generally positive reviews from critics and audiences. The film was praised for its atmospheric direction, engaging storyline, and strong performances. It holds a 71% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with many reviewers highlighting the film’s ability to build on the success of the first installment and provide a compelling continuation of the story.
Critics noted that the film effectively combines crime thriller elements with supernatural and cultural themes, creating a unique and immersive viewing experience. The atmospheric cinematography and the integration of local folklore were particularly appreciated, as they contributed to the film’s sense of mystery and suspense.
Some reviewers felt that the film’s complex narrative and slow pacing might not appeal to all viewers, but overall, it was seen as a strong and effective continuation of the Baztán Trilogy.
Where to Watch The Legacy of the Bones Online in America
For those interested in watching The Legacy of the Bones, there are several options available for streaming and rental in the U.S. Here’s where you can find the film:
Streaming Services
- Hulu: The Legacy of the Bones is available for streaming on Hulu. Subscribers can watch the film as part of their membership, along with other international and independent films.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video: The Legacy of the Bones is available for rental at $4.99 or for purchase at $12.99 on Amazon Prime Video. The film is accessible in SD and HD formats.
- Google Play Movies & TV: You can rent The Legacy of the Bones for $4.99 or purchase it for $12.99. The film can be streamed on Android devices, Chromecast, and other compatible devices.
- Apple iTunes: On iTunes, you can rent The Legacy of the Bones for $4.99 or buy it for $12.99. The film is available on all Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Apple TV.
- Vudu: Vudu offers The Legacy of the Bones for rental at $4.99 and purchase at $12.99. It supports streaming on a variety of devices, including smart TVs and gaming consoles.
- YouTube Movies: The film is available for rent on YouTube Movies for $4.99 or for purchase at $12.99. You can watch it on any device that supports YouTube.
Conclusion: Is The Legacy of the Bones Worth Watching?
The Legacy of the Bones is a captivating and atmospheric thriller that builds on the strengths of its predecessor, The Invisible Guardian. With its blend of crime procedural elements and supernatural folklore, the film offers an engaging and immersive experience for fans of the genre. The strong performances, particularly by Marta Etura, and the film’s evocative setting contribute to its success as a compelling continuation of the Baztán Trilogy.
While the film’s complex narrative and deliberate pacing may not appeal to everyone, it is a worthwhile watch for those interested in psychological thrillers and stories rooted in cultural and historical themes. With several streaming and rental options available, The Legacy of the Bones is easily accessible for viewers looking to delve into this dark and intriguing mystery.
