Elisa & Marcela is a 2019 Spanish biographical romantic drama film directed by Isabel Coixet. The film is based on the true story of Marcela Gracia Ibeas, a Spanish woman who, to marry her lover, Elisa Sanchez Loriga, assumed a male identity, Mario Sánchez.
The film begins with Marcela and Elisa meeting at school and developing a close relationship. They both fall in love but are unable to express their love openly due to their conservative society. Marcela decides to take on the identity of Mario Sánchez and presents herself as a man, allowing her to marry Elisa. Together, they move to the rural town of Porto where they start a new life.
Their secret, however, is soon discovered and they are forced to flee to Portugal. They are eventually found by the authorities and arrested. During the trial, their love for each other is exposed, leading to public scandal and condemnation. The film ends with Marcela going into exile and Elisa staying behind to face the consequences.
Elisa & Marcela received generally positive reviews and was praised for its portrayal of the unique relationship between Marcela and Elisa and their struggle against social norms. The film also addresses issues of gender identity and sexuality, making it socially relevant and timely.
