The film "The Day of the Beast" (1995), masterfully directed by Alex de la Iglesia, immerses us in a dystopian Madrid where a priest, a death metal fanatic and an esoteric presenter join forces to face the Antichrist. In the midst of this apocalyptic chaos, the iconic Schweppes sign on Gran Vía takes on a special role, becoming a symbol of refuge and the scene of both comical and tense moments.
Installed in 1972 in the Carrión building, this illuminated sign has witnessed the evolution of the city. With an imposing height of 37 meters and a weight of 600 kg, the letters alone weigh 100 kg, highlighting their presence in the Madrid skyline. In 2004, it underwent a transformation to fit the new Schweppes brand image, with the remodeling of its letters to lowercase letters and a complete restoration.
Despite facing the threat of being removed in 2010 due to a municipal ordinance, the Madrid City Council recognized its historical value by awarding it the title of Historical Sign, thus ensuring its preservation for future generations. A fascinating curiosity is that, in the film, the protagonists did not interact with the original sign, but with an exact replica of it.
This film offers a unique cinematic experience by mixing elements of black comedy, action and fantasy, all set in the bustling and cosmopolitan city of Madrid. "The Day of the Beast" is a classic of Spanish cinema that not only entertains, but also invites you to reflect on deep issues while immersing the viewer in a journey full of emotion and surprises.
