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Alba Flores and rising stars join ‘The Shepherdess’ at Locarno Match Me!
A new wave of inclusivity in Spanish cinema
Alba Flores, known for her iconic role as Nairobi in Money Heist, is set to star in The Shepherdess, a film directed by Cande Lázaro. Joining her are La Dani, a non-binary singer and actor, and Julio Hu Chen, a trailblazing Spanish actor of Chinese descent. This film is poised to be a highlight at this year’s Locarno Match Me! co-production forum.
Alba Flores: From ‘Money Heist’ to ‘The Shepherdess’
Alba Flores has captivated audiences worldwide with her portrayal of Saray Vargas in the women’s penitentiary drama Locked Up. Her transition to The Shepherdess marks another significant step in her career, showcasing her versatility and commitment to diverse roles.
La Dani and Julio Hu Chen: Breaking barriers
La Dani, who received a Goya nomination for Love & Revolution, and Julio Hu Chen, nominated for his role in Chinas, are both making waves in the Spanish film industry. Their participation in The Shepherdess underscores the film’s commitment to inclusivity and representation.
The story of ’The Shepherdess’
The Shepherdess is a fictional feature that resurrects the figure of Florenci Pla, an intersexual maqui, and establishes a dialogue between him and the film’s director, Cande Lázaro, who is undergoing a medical and administrative transition. This narrative intertwines the life stories of Pla and Lázaro, creating a unique and compelling storyline.
A historical figure reimagined
Florenci Pla, born intersexual in 1917, was baptized as a girl and sent to the hills in Eastern Spain to look after sheep. After a series of traumatic events, Pla joined the maqui, who fought against Franco’s security forces during the first 15 years of the Spanish post-Civil War. Transforming into a man, an identity he always desired, Pla fought for 18 months and was stigmatized by Franco’s propaganda regime.
A unique narrative approach
The Shepherdess is not a typical biographical film. It allows Florenci to move through space-time, between the mountain and the city, the past and the present, living simultaneously his years with the maquis and Lázaro’s transition. This innovative approach adds depth and complexity to the narrative.
A playful yet profound film
Cande Lázaro, who will also play Pla, emphasizes that the film is not a heavy drama. There is a playful element to it, offering a de-dramatizing vision of intersexuality. The film aims to show that life is simpler than it appears, highlighting the shared experiences of violence and love.
A balanced perspective
The film does not aim to present a black-and-white view of history. Pla, who was imprisoned from 1960 to 1977 for 29 murders carried out by the maquis, was liberated in 1977 and is now rehabilitated as a hero of the Spanish resistance. The film seeks to show that both the past and the present have their good times and challenges.
Aiming for broad appeal
Mansalva Films, the production company behind The Shepherdess, aims to achieve general audience distribution openings. They want to tell Florenci’s story in a way that is accessible and relatable, without great drama, ensuring that queer stories are not confined to niche audiences.
Watch the trailer
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit The Shepherdess.
The Shepherdess promises to be a groundbreaking film that not only tells a compelling historical story but also addresses contemporary issues of identity and inclusivity. With a talented cast and an innovative narrative approach, it is set to make a significant impact on the Spanish film industry and beyond.
