THE haunting and visually ravishing Spanish drama The Shepherd is Ilkley Film Society’s next screening on Sunday, September 16 (8pm at Ilkley Playhouse).

Middle-aged Anselmo lives a frugal but contented life in his run-down house in the middle of the Spanish plains, with just his dog and his sheep for company. His troubles begin when he rejects an offer for his land from a construction company which wants to build a large housing complex. Pressure is increased by the local mayor, who will be a financial beneficiary of the deal, and Anselmo is drawn into an escalating battle to preserve the only way of life he has ever known.

Director Jonathan Cenzual Burley’s film swept the board at the independent Raindance Film Festival in 2016, winning awards for Best Film, Best Director and Best Actor, but has had few British screenings. The film has drawn comparisons with the Westerns of John Ford, and the use of landscape and devastating climax will certainly resonate with lovers of Westerns.

Membership for the new season is still available (details at www.ilkleyfilmsociety.org.uk) and new members will be able to join on the night.

Non-members are welcome as guests (£4) but are asked to phone Dave Howell on 01943 430097 to reserve a seat.