Field of stones

Normally the village walking group goes out on a Thursday afternoon. But J-L, the official leader, had a stinking cold, M-P was off to the dentist, a couple of other people were away ... so it was me and S. S suggested walking to Fabrezan on a loop that we have often done, so off we went, fuelled (in my case) by the hope of a beer to refresh us for the return journey. I was knackered by the time we got there and very relieved the cafe was open (extra).

Here is a typical vineyard. Note the pile of stones that generations of workers have laboriously removed. Then look at what the vines are growing in ... stones. It's amazing how they find water deep underground. We also, as usual, admired the massive carp which flourish in a large stone tank next to the path. Oh, also: #spotthepylons in large.

The return route was shorter than the outward one ... as we walked through Fabrezan to reach the path that goes via the cemetery, three people we know passed and honked at us. M and P regretted not offering us a lift as the car was full of plants. They offered to come back and get us once they'd unloaded them, but we nobly waved them off.

I was hot and knackered when we got home. 10 km, no climbing to speak of, 3 hours including the half-hour beer stop. We had to do a quick turnaround, just time for a swift shower before heading to the cineclub in Lézignan.

The club was hosting a projection for Cinespaña, the Toulouse-based Spanish film festival. We saw Los Inocentes, in the presence of director Guillermo Benet. Our minds were somewhat blown from the start, as it's shot entirely in square format. I've never seen a square film before.They were also economising on the lighting budget -- the overall effect was dark and claustrophobic. A deliberate choice in this story of a group of alienated young people caught up in a riot, one of whom may or may not have thrown a stone that killed a policeman.There were six sections, each told from one character's point of view. The format was really effective at emphasising their isolation and the stifling atmosphere as they try to work out how to avoid arrest. A very interesting discussion with the director afterwards -- then we skipped off home for wine and spiced squash soup. And relax!