One winter night, Angel Pasqual sits in his parked car, reviewing confidential files for his next clients. As he phones a colleague to discuss the fate of a third case, he questions whether there is anything inherently wrong with his line of work. The film then intercuts interviews with three of his clients—Inma, Julian and Delia—revealing their habits, routines and intimate secrets through the lens of an off‑screen interviewer. These vignettes expose the vulnerability and humanity behind bureaucratic processes while illustrating the emotional burden Angel bears. “Como un lastre” (“Like a Burden”) is a portrait of moral ambiguity, exploring the hidden cost of work that requires invading others’ privacy to deliver them a chance at a new life.
The film combines static interviews with dynamic contemplative shots. Geodesic architecture, forest scenery and stark interiors create a contrast between natural freedom and institutional control.
Crew
Manhal Aziz laid the foundation of his career with a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism in Syria, his home country, ultimately becoming a Doctor in Communication at the University of Alicante, supported by a Master’s in Communication and Creative Industries and a Cinematography course taught at Ciudad de la Luz.
His professional experience spans 8 years. From 2016 to 2019, he participated in Nubo Films as a Screenwriter and Filmmaker, and from 2019 to the present, he has been developing projects at B. Movie Projects as a screenwriter, filmmaker, and director.