The mysteries of romantic connection, the challenges of a long-term relationship, the allure of personal freedom — these topics are explored in Lucio Castro’s sexy, funny, and moving debut, set in picturesque Barcelona. Though it’s packed with rich conversation, some time passes before the first words are spoken, as Ocho (Juan Barberini) fills his days aimlessly, flitting between tourist locales and cruising a handsome guy named Javi (Ramón Pujol). After some sweaty sex and post-coital chat, Javi discloses something that causes the film to take a dive into the past.

As the story pivots to the titular end of the 20th century, Ocho and Javi both have girlfriends, though we sense the connection that will draw them together in the future. Through this fascinating temporal shift, End of the Century explores how people and the things they want change (or don’t) over time. And when the puzzle pieces come together at the film’s close, a full and deeply felt portrait of these two men emerges.