Sunday's Illness

Every secret has a cost, every bond a story.

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Synopsis

Sunday's Illness (La enfermedad del domingo) is a poignant 2018 Spanish drama that delves into the complex relationship between a mother and daughter. The story follows Natalia, a successful woman who reunites with her estranged mother, Clara, in a remote house. Confronted with her mother’s fragile health and long-hidden family secrets, Natalia embarks on an emotional journey filled with tension, reconciliation, and revelations. The film, starring Bárbara Lennie, explores themes of abandonment, forgiveness, and the enduring impact of past traumas, highlighting the deeply human desire for connection despite pain and resentment. With its intimate storytelling and nuanced performances, Sunday's Illness provides a compelling look into familial bonds and the search for closure.

Cast

Reviews

Sunday’s Illness has been generally well-received by critics, garnering positive ratings across several platforms. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds an impressive 89% approval rating, reflecting critical acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of difficult family dynamics and Bárbara Lennie's powerful performance. Critics have praised the film’s atmospheric direction and the emotional depth achieved by director Ramón Salazar, who masterfully captures the underlying tension and vulnerability between the characters. Metacritic assigns it a high score of 92 out of 100, indicating universal acclaim and highlighting its nuanced storytelling and poignant screenplay. IMDb users give it a solid 6.9/10, showing favorable audience reception albeit with some divided opinions regarding its slow pace and introspective narrative style. Reviews commonly underscore the film’s skillful balance between drama and subtle psychological insight, with some noting that its deliberate pacing demands patient viewing but ultimately rewards with emotional resonance. As a character-driven drama, Sunday's Illness stands out for its honest, unflinching examination of maternal relationships and the scars left by past decisions.