Locarno Film Festival: A Glimpse into Spain’s Cinematic Future
Spotlight on Spain: First Look at Locarno 2024
The Locarno Film Festival is set to shine a spotlight on Spain in its 13th edition of the First Look sidebar, a segment dedicated to showcasing works in progress. This year, the festival received 40 submissions, with a pre-selection committee narrowing down the entries. The committee included notable figures from various international film festivals, ensuring a diverse and high-quality selection.
The Jury and the Prizes
The jury for this year’s First Look competition comprises esteemed professionals from the film industry, including the Artistic Director of Venice’s International Film Critics’ Week, the Director of the Istanbul Film Festival, and a Programmer for the International Film Festival Rotterdam. These experts will evaluate the entries and award cash and service prizes valued at tens of thousands of euros. The platform also offers producers the opportunity to present their films to potential sales and distribution partners, both in person at the Cinema Rialto and online via the Locarno Pro Online digital library.
A Partnership with Spanish Cinematography
This year’s First Look is produced in collaboration with the Spanish Institute of Cinematography and Audiovisual Arts (ICAA) and ICEX Spain Trade & Investment. The Locarno Film Festival will run from August 9-11, providing a stage for Spanish filmmakers to showcase their innovative projects.
Featured Films: A Journey Through Spanish Cinema
L’Aguait (The Lookout)
Director: Marc Ortiz
Production Companies: TV ON Producciones, Admirable Films, Lamalanga Produccions Audiovisuals
Synopsis: The film follows Teresa Pla, an intersex child assigned female at birth, who struggles to be recognized as a man within the archaic Spanish society of the early 20th century. Persecuted by guerrillas, bandits, and the Guardia Civil, Teresa’s story is a poignant exploration of identity.
Personal Reflection: This film promises to be a deeply moving narrative, rooted in historical context yet resonating with contemporary issues of identity and acceptance. The director’s personal connection to the story adds an authentic touch that is sure to captivate audiences.
Watch the trailer for L’Aguait
Bodegón con fantasmas (Still Life With Ghosts)
Director: Enrique Buleo
Production Companies: Quatre Films Audiovisuales, Cuidado con el perro, This and That, Sideral
Synopsis: In the small town of La Mancha, ghosts and humans alike grapple with the troubles of life and death, resorting to extreme measures to resolve their issues.
Personal Reflection: Enrique Buleo’s unique blend of humor and humanism, set against the backdrop of rural Spain, offers a fresh perspective on death and societal values. This film is a testament to the director’s imaginative storytelling and precise cinematic style.
Watch the trailer for Bodegón con fantasmas
Dream of Another Summer
Director: Irene Bartolomé
Production Companies: Colibrí Studio, I.B. Films, The Attic Productions
Synopsis: This film explores the relationship between a woman in crisis and a city in ruins, delving into themes of mortality and survival.
Personal Reflection: The innovative narrative structure, where the audience experiences the protagonist’s journey through her eyes and ears, sets this film apart. It promises to be an intimate and immersive experience, reflecting on the resilience of both individuals and cities.
Watch the trailer for Dream of Another Summer
Mares (Mums)
Director: Ariadna Seuba
Production Companies: Polar Star Films, Intactes Films
Synopsis: The film documents the emotional journey of Ari and her partner Anna as they navigate the challenges of assisted reproduction.
Personal Reflection: This deeply personal documentary offers an intimate look into the lives of the director and her partner, capturing the highs and lows of their journey to parenthood. The raw and unfiltered portrayal of their experiences is sure to resonate with many.
Prefiro condenarme
Director: Margarita Ledo-Andión
Production Companies: Nós Produtora Cinematográfica Galega
Synopsis: Set in 1972, the film tells the story of Sagrario Fra, a woman convicted of adultery during the Francoist dictatorship, who defies patriarchal norms and fights for her rights.
Personal Reflection: This historical drama sheds light on the struggles of women under oppressive regimes, highlighting themes of resistance and resilience. The director’s focus on a lesser-known aspect of history makes this film a significant and thought-provoking watch.
Watch the trailer for Prefiro condenarme
Río abajo, un tigre (Downriver, a Tiger)
Director: Víctor Diago
Production Companies: Boogaloo Films
Synopsis: Júlia, a photographer in Glasgow, grapples with her failing eyesight and delves into her past, uncovering a mysterious group and a fellow migrant, Shubham.
Personal Reflection: This film’s blend of fiction and documentary, coupled with its exploration of migration and identity, offers a poignant and reflective narrative. The use of archival material adds depth and authenticity to the story.
Watch the trailer for Río abajo, un tigre
Awards and Recognition
This year’s First Look offers several prestigious awards, including post-production services, music supervision, advertising space, and the design of an international poster. These prizes not only provide financial support but also offer invaluable industry exposure for the filmmakers.
The Locarno Film Festival continues to be a vital platform for emerging talents, offering a glimpse into the future of cinema. This year’s focus on Spain highlights the rich and diverse storytelling that the country has to offer, promising an exciting and thought-provoking lineup of films.