The first, and I hope not the last film I'd catch among the "Película/Pelikula" Spanish Film Festival sceenings.

"Siete Virgenes" (Seven Virgins) tells the story of Tano, a suburban boy who bailed out of rehab for his brother's wedding. He tries to stay out of trouble but can't seem to do so. It's a basic drama of friendship, growing up, gangs, flings and fears.

Humor peppered the dialogues and acting is well thought of. Juan José Ballesta and Jesús Carroza are brilliant as best friends Tano and Richi.

The cinematography reminds me how Hispanic our country is—from the fiestas and family ties to the muggings. This movie could very well be shot out of the slums of Tondo. Musical scoring has a lot of percussions which made me wanna do the flamenco by the time the credits are rolling. Too bad I can't do flamenco, which I sometimes confuse with the flamingo.

Don't expect nudity as the title and photo might suggest, although there are some bed scenes. The plot may be predictable to most arthouse-film junkies but "Siete Virgenes" doesn't disappoint.

It's quite short at 86 minutes and the copy is grainy (we suspect it was forced-fit to cinema standards), but still, watch it. Just please don't get distracted with Ballesta's Josh Hartnett eyes, girls and girls at heart alike.