A Widow's Game

The movie centers around the tragic murder of engineer Antonio Navarro Cerdán, who was fatally stabbed in a parking garage in Patraix, Valencia on August 16, 2017. The narrative unfolds with the investigation led by police officer Eva (Carmen Machi), who is assigned to the homicide case. The plot thickens as the police focus their attention on Maje (Ivana Baquero), the victim’s widow and a nurse, along with her colleague and lover, Salva (Tristán Ulloa).

The story takes a deep dive into the complex emotional landscape of Maje, who exhibits signs of a double life. On the surface, Maje appears to be a devastated wife, but as the investigation progresses, it becomes apparent she has been unfaithful to her husband Arturo (whose character remains unrepresented on-screen) and was involved with another man named André before their marriage. Maje’s affairs cast a shadow over her relationship with Arturo, whose controlling behavior, stemming from Maje’s past infidelities, heightens the tension between them.

A crucial subplot introduces one of Eva’s colleagues who becomes a casualty in the line of duty, serving as a poignant tribute to real-life events. As the police delve deeper, they discover that Maje has been leading a promiscuous lifestyle, attending wild parties where she engages in sexual encounters with multiple men, including a coworker and a partygoer named Daniel. The growing animosity and suspicion between Maje and Arturo culminate in a violent confrontation, prompting Maje to express her wish that Arturo were dead.

In her desperation, Maje seeks solace with Salva, whom she tries to manipulate into committing the ultimate act for her – the murder of her husband. Salva, who also works in the medical field, becomes increasingly infatuated with Maje, despite being married and having a son. As the scheme unfolds, it becomes evident that Maje has sociopathic tendencies, using men to satisfy her emotional needs and ego, stemming from her strict upbringing.

Maje’s manipulation peaks when she reveals crucial details about Arturo’s schedule to Salva, leading him to believe he can execute her deadly plan. However, after the murder occurs, Salva begins to face turmoil, questioning his decisions and Maje’s true feelings for him, especially after discovering her ongoing connection with Daniel. This internal conflict steers him to take a step back from their chaotic relationship.

Eva, the diligent police officer, eventually pieces together the evidence and manipulates the situation so that Maje believes that the police are close to solving the case. This revelation prompts Maje to turn on Salva, falsely accusing him of obsession. As the investigation intensifies, the police collect phone records and other evidence linking both Maje and Salva to the murder, leading to their arrest and subsequent trial.

The film concludes by showcasing actual footage from the real court case that inspired this dark and intricate story, illustrating the fates of each character while honoring the valor of the fallen officer. The intricate layers of deception, emotional manipulation, and betrayal not only tell a gripping story but also reflect on the tragic realities of human relationships.

Last Updated: June 23, 2025 at 06:03