A ghost in the battle: infiltration and the memory of Basque terrorism

Published by Julie de Sortiraparis · Updated on October 16, 2025 at 09:59 p.m. · Published on October 16, 2025 at 07:47 p.m.
Directed by Agustín Díaz Yanes, A Ghost in Battle (Un fantasma en la batalla) is a Spanish thriller released on Netflix on October 17, 2025, inspired by a real-life infiltration into the ETA in the 1990s.

Directed and written by Agustín Díaz Yanes, Un fantasmaen la batalla ( A Ghost in the Battle ) is inspired by an undercover operation carried out by the Spanish Civil Guard at the heart of the ETA terrorist organization. Produced by Belén Atienza and Sandra Hermida for Netflix, this dramatic thriller explores the psychological tension and moral dilemmas of an agent forced to live a double life for over a decade. Starring Susana Abaitua, the film follows in the tradition of espionage cinema and committed historical narrative.

When and where can I see Ghost in Battle?

A Ghost in Battle will be available on Netflix from October 17, 2025.

Synopsis: Inspired by the testimonies of members of the Spanish Civil Guard, the film tells the story of Amaya, a young agent who infiltrated the ETA for over ten years in the 1990s and 2000s, with the aim of locating the group's secret weapons caches in the south of France.

A historical thriller by Agustín Díaz Yanes

Filmmaker Agustín Díaz Yanes, known for his films Nobody Will Talk About Us When We're Dead and Alatriste, returns with a work rooted in Spanish political reality. With Un fantôme dans la bataille, he stages a tense undercover plot focusing on the complexities of Basque terrorism and the human repercussions of counter-espionage missions. The director's approach favors a sober narrative, focused on the psychology of the characters and the truth of the facts.

An undercover story set in the heart of the 1990s

The film plunges viewers into Spain in the 1990s and 2000s, marked by the state's fight againstETA. Through the character of Amaya, played by Susana Abaitua, the screenplay evokes the sacrifices required by undercover work, the loss of identity and the loneliness inherent in this type of mission. Andrés Gertrúdix, Iraia Elias, Raúl Arévalo and Ariadna Gil complete the cast, embodying the political, military and militant figures of an era when Spain was fighting for internal peace.

Between political tension and human drama

A cross between spy thriller and psychological drama, Un fantôme dans la bataille explores the fragile line between duty and identity. The staging seeks to recreate the everyday tension of covert operations, while emphasizing the intimate dimension of the story: fear, loyalty and the weight of lies. This realistic approach brings the film closer to other undercover productions such as ZeroZeroZero or Munich.

Who is Un fantôme dans la bataille for?

The film should appeal to viewers with a passion for spy stories, political thrillers and historical dramas based on true events. Fans of stories of infiltration and psychological tension, in the tradition of The Spy or Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, will find an intense, well-documented account of a key period in recent Spanish history.

All you need to know about Un fantôme dans la bataille

Produced in Spain and distributed by Netflix, Un fantasmaen la batalla ( A Ghost in the Battle ) stands out as a dramatic thriller inspired by true events. The film tackles themes of loyalty, fear and sacrifice, while paying tribute to the undercover agents of the Guardia Civil. With its tense narrative and historical significance, it is in line with contemporary Spanish cinema.

This article is based on information available online; we have not yet viewed the film or series mentioned.

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Dates and Opening Time
Starts October 17, 2025

× Approximate opening times: to confirm opening times, please contact the establishment.
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