A unnamed scientist (portrayed by director Nacho Vigalondo) explains time travel in the film Timecrimes. This illustration would make a fun t-shirt design. Maybe we will see more of this image if the rumored Cronenberg English-remake of the film happens.

Timecrimes, the debut feature film, from Spanish director Nacho Vigalondo opens today in Los Angeles and New York. The film is a great example of what can be done with a low budget. The film has only four actors, no crazy visual effects shots, but is entirely compelling.

We were lucky enough to have Vigalondo visit LA in November to present the Cinema Tuesdays sneak peek of Timecrimes, demonstrate his Karaoke skills and share a few of his short films at the Flux Screening Series at the Hammer.

Vigalondo’s short Sunday (2007)

Each of the short films he screened displayed storytelling that in other hands would require big budgets, yet Vigalondo pulls it off much less. Since the big budget Hollywood remake The Day The Earth Stood Still also opens in theaters today, it seemed appropriate to share Sunday, Vigalondo’s low budget short also about alien visitation.

While Nacho was in town he took meetings with several studios. I’m really excited to see what he makes next.

Trailer for Timecrimes