The Thriller in the “Dark Period” of Spanish Cinema (1969-1975)

Abstract

Definition of the crisis period of the cinematographic pro-Franco device, hereby called "Dark Period" (1969-1975), discussion regarding the label of subgenres applied to the cinema bis from that time, plus historical characterization of the Spanish thriller and its aesthetic and conceptual trends in the abovementioned period. The demarcation of the “Dark Period” 1969-1975 is previously clarified in the face of the historical void on this matter. The crisis that took place in the “Dark Period” is typified since its official beginning in 1969, which meant the definitive closure of the protectionist policies undertaken by the Managing Director of Cinematography García Escudero in 1962. Afterwards, the label “subgenres” traditionally applied to Spanish low-budget genres cinema is defined and discussed. Later, the different categories inside Spanish thriller of 1969-1975 are specified, defined and analysed: it’s either about thematic, plot or aesthetical categories, or can be related to international currents of European Police cinema. Finally, the appropriate conclusions are draught.