Bruno Martín Explores Crime and Loyalty in Madrid’s ‘Luger’

Director Bruno Martín has made a striking debut with his feature film, ‘Luger’, a gripping thriller that delves into the themes of loyalty and honour among criminals in Madrid. The film, set against a backdrop of violence and dark humour, follows a man named Rafa who becomes ensnared in a web of crime after the theft of a historic German pistol from World War II.

Martín, along with scriptwriter Santiago Taboada, recently discussed the film’s core message: the idea that there is “no honour among thieves.” To challenge this notion, they depict a gritty side of Madrid where loyalty and sacrifice endure among those with little to lose. The narrative unfolds around an industrial estate on the city’s outskirts, where the legendary Luger pistol plays a pivotal role, symbolising a connection between local delinquents and the broader historical context of war.

Complex Characters and Emotional Depth

In ‘Luger’, the titular weapon carries a significant burden—a last, mysterious bullet that adds depth to the story. Martín explains that this gun serves as a “symbolic axis” linking the microcosm of neighbourhood criminals to the macrocosm of European conflict. This tragic dimension transforms humble characters into participants in a legacy of power and violence that looms over them.

The film expertly balances dark humour with intense violence, immersing viewers in a rhythmic experience punctuated by a carefully selected soundtrack. “It’s a film that will make you have a good and a bad time; our aim is for the spectator to enjoy,” says Martín. He also stars in the film as Charly, a morally ambiguous character who embodies the film’s central themes of honour and betrayal.

Alongside actors David Sainz and Mario Mayo, Martín’s character navigates a narrative filled with friendship, forgiveness, and redemption. Unlike conventional thrillers, ‘Luger’ blends humour and action, leaving the audience fully engaged without moments of respite. The film prioritises emotional connections over mere spectacle, aiming to evoke empathy rather than relying on explosions.

Artistic Influences and Festival Success

Aesthetically, ‘Luger’ draws inspiration from cinematic icons like Quentin Tarantino and Guy Ritchie, while also nodding to films such as Training Day and Die Hard. Despite these influences, the film maintains its unique identity, presenting a traditional thriller with human depth that contrasts sharply with many contemporary productions. The soundtrack, composed by Levi Star, contributes to the film’s visceral appeal, enhancing moments of comedy and tension with a blend of percussion and flamenco clapping.

Shot in just 20 days, ‘Luger’ has garnered attention on the international film festival circuit. It received the Crossovers Grand Prix in Strasbourg and was featured at the Fantastic Fest in Austin, Texas, as well as the Sitges International Film Festival. The creators express their gratitude for the accolades, noting their humble position as newcomers in the film industry. “We are intruders in all the festivals; we don’t fit completely in social cinema or pure genre, but that makes us special,” they remark.

After over three years of dedicated script development, Martín and Taboada view ‘Luger’ as a dream realised. They aspire to continue crafting films that resonate with audiences, stating, “It’s a film in which you’re going to have both a good and a bad time. You won’t look at your mobile phone for a second. It’s a journey that grabs you and leaves you wanting more.”

‘Luger’ is expected to be released in selected cinemas across Spain later this year, promising to engage viewers with its blend of action, emotion, and a compelling narrative.