As the film title indicates, Lots of Kids, a Monkey and a Castle were the three wishes of director Gustavo Salmerón’s mother, Julita, when she was young. Surprisingly, she fulfilled her wishes. She had six kids, one monkey and also got a castle after becoming rich. But in the halfway of the film as the aftermath of Spanish economic crisis hits, her family decides to sell the castle and live together. Scattered family gathers all together and joins the moving day. Camera naturally expands the angle from the mom to the whole family. Julita’s passionate and optimistic character shines at the moment of loss and tears, leaving the castle she lived for 14 years. Such as, she grumbles saying ‘I should die now. Life is just pain’, but after enjoying a loaf of bread, she suddenly expresses the joy of life. Sons stick to the moment and tease her. Even her grandkids join her mock funeral practice. Capturing the moment of bliss even when talking about death, this film completes the family portrait with a home movie of the family’s memories, full of energy and wisdom. The audience can feel the vigor of this family. What a life they are living! [KIM Sukyun]