July 19, 2008 – Viver

Women are a growing part of the re-enacting movement in Spain.

This is day four of the trip and I have just returned from Viver.  I arrived late last night and met up with Kristian and a few others at a restored trench and tunnel fortification outside of town on a hilltop.  We stayed there until one am under a full moon having a fine dinner of Serrano and tomato sandwiches with red wine and beer.  Lodging was at a boarding school dorm constructed with typical Spanish Bauhaus austerity.  The bunks where welcoming and I slept like a log from our 3 am arrival until the rude 7:30 am wake-up call.  Alas, life in the army.

Today I shot five hours of footage with my new cameraman Francisco Gramaje Calatayud.  A competent and very professional shooter making his first forays into the documentary world.  Once he got used to the idea of no re-takes we where doing fine.  He shot on a Z1U and I did some second unit on my A1U.  Events commemorated the 70th anniversary of the successful defense of Valencia along Linea XYZ, in which Viver played a central role.  

The battle drew a crowd

The days events included a presentation in front of the Ayuntamiento with parade through the town and an exhibition of life in the trenches.  Lunch followed, a very welcome arroz al horno.   In the afternoon we had a brief return to the trenches during which I interview Kristian, and my new friend, Titus.  What a character!  Watch for a profile of Titus soon.   The afternoon’s activities included a “battle” in the town park between republican regulars and requetes, with traca effects and masclet hand grenades (These are typical Spanish fireworks).    The day’s events ended with a ceremonial presentation of arms to the opposing sides and the now traditional group hug.  There was a good crowd and fun was had by all. 

July 28, 2008 - Posted by JME Productions, LLC | Uncategorized