Goya's Ghosts

Goya's Ghosts, in the US on Amazon Prime Video and Kanopy, takes its characters as seriously as it takes its plot. It knows exactly what kind of film it is from the opening scene, and never loses that thread. 540 viewers have already rated it on TMDB — the kind of consensus that does not happen by accident. Javier Bardem's performance alone is worth the time investment. Put it on tonight on Amazon Prime Video and see for yourself.

There is a reason Goya's Ghosts keeps coming up in conversation. The writing in Goya's Ghosts treats its characters as people first, plot devices second. Painter Francisco Goya becomes involved with the Spanish Inquisition after his muse, Inés, is arrested by the church for heresy. Her family turns to him, hoping that his connection with fanatical Inquisitor Lorenzo, whom he is painting, can secure her release. Javier Bardem and Natalie Portman lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It hit screens in 2006. The performances in Goya's Ghosts do a lot of work in the silences between the dialogue. There is real craft here, even in the moments that do not fully land.

Drama fans who appreciate slow-burn storytelling will feel right at home with Goya's Ghosts. If you have run out of similar titles to watch, this is a strong next pick. The complete film is available and best experienced without too much prior knowledge of where it goes. Javier Bardem carries the material with a performance that rewards close attention. Worth starting sooner rather than later.

Goya's Ghosts was released in 2006, directed by Miloš Forman. The full 114-minute film is available to watch now. Find exactly where it's streaming below, and TV Butler Pro makes it effortless to track your progress as you go. Just search the name, and Butler finds it instantly, tells you which service has it, and remembers exactly where you left off.