Garabandal, Only God Knows is a Spanish historical religious drama set in 1961, when four girls from the small Cantabrian village of San Sebastián de Garabandal claimed to have seen first the Archangel Michael and later the Virgin Mary. The story is based on real events that led to thousands of alleged apparitions and attracted numerous pilgrims to the village.

The story begins on June 18, 1961, when four girls, all about 12 years old—Conchita, Jacinta, Mari Loli, and Mari Cruz—saw the Archangel Michael while spending time in the mountains. A few days later, on July 2, 1961, the Virgin Mary (Our Lady of Mount Carmel) was said to have appeared to them as well. These events caused a stir throughout the village and later in the wider region.

Two men take center stage in the film. The first is the local priest, Valentín, who tries to determine whether these are genuine apparitions or merely the product of children’s imaginations or a hoax. The second is the commander of the civil guard, Juan Álvarez Seco, who must manage the growing influx of pilgrims and the tension in the village.

The film shows how what began as a local event becomes an international phenomenon: thousands of people—reporters, priests, and skeptics alike—flock to the village. Church officials are divided—some are cautious, while others openly express their doubts.

Drama

Spain, 2018, 96 min

Crew: Brian Alexander Jackson;

Cast: Fernando García Linares, Rafael Samino, Belén Garde;

Parents Guide:
The shooting of several priests in scenes set during the Spanish Civil War. Cigarettes are smoked on several occasions. A simulated beginning of a vision.

It is worthwhile to support fine art by purchasing it. Supporting good cinema not only helps in the creation of high-quality films, but is also a sign of integrity and respect toward the filmmakers.