Manuel and Clemente 1986
Javier Palmero's 1986 comedy Manuel and Clemente (1986) spins a mischievous tale about two quick-witted Sevillian friends who stumble upon a golden opportunity when reports of a miraculous apparition near El Palmar de Troya begin to spread.
Director: Javier Palmero
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Manuel and Clemente (1986) about?
Set in 1968 Seville, this comedy follows two friends who exploit a village's belief in a miraculous apparition to build their own religious empire. Their plan includes a lavish basilica, a personal clergy, and even a handpicked pope—all while navigating the chaos of credulous believers.
Who directed Manuel and Clemente?
Javier Palmero directed this sharp-witted satire, blending social critique with slapstick humor in his unique comedic style.
Who stars in Manuel and Clemente?
The film features Juan Jesús Valverde and Ángel de Andrés López as the scheming pair, with Héctor Alterio and Trinidad Rugero adding depth to the ensemble.
Is Manuel and Clemente (1986) worth watching?
For fans of offbeat Spanish comedies, Manuel and Clemente delivers laughs and satire without relying on crude gags. Though unrated on IMDb, its 89-minute runtime and cultural themes make it a breezy watch for those who enjoy clever underdog stories.
How long is Manuel and Clemente?
The film runs 89 minutes.
Manuel and Clemente (1986): A Satirical Comedy About Faith, Fraud, and Basilicas — Full Movie Info
Javier Palmero's 1986 comedy Manuel and Clemente (1986) spins a mischievous tale about two quick-witted Sevillian friends who stumble upon a golden opportunity when reports of a miraculous apparition near El Palmar de Troya begin to spread. What starts as a simple scam soon spirals into an audacious adventure where Manuel and Clemente dream of building a grand basilica, crafting their own religious order, and even crowning a pope to legitimize their hustle. The film blends sharp satire with lighthearted humor, poking fun at human credulity, the power of spectacle, and the thin line between faith and fraud in post-war Spain.
With a runtime of just 89 minutes, Palmero keeps the narrative tight and energetic, driven by the charismatic performances of Juan Jesús Valverde and Ángel de Andrés López as the scheming duo. Héctor Alterio and Trinidad Rugero round out the cast, grounding the absurdity with moments of gravitas that make the satire feel grounded rather than farcical. Set against the sun-drenched backdrop of 1960s Andalusia, the film captures both the charm and the chaos of a society caught between tradition and opportunism.