Indie film ‘Surfacing’ set to make waves at San Sebastián Film Festival
A new chapter for Argentine directors
The indie film scene is buzzing with excitement as Cecilia Atán and Valeria Pivato prepare to unveil their latest creation, “Surfacing” (“La Llegada Del Hijo”), at the prestigious San Sebastián Film Festival. This marks their second feature film, following the success of their debut, “The Desert Bride” (“La novia del desierto”). The film is set to compete in the New Director’s Competition, a testament to the directors’ growing influence in the cinematic world.
A delicate balance of emotion and passion
Visit Films, a New York-based indie sales outfit, has acquired international distribution rights for “Surfacing”. The company’s president, Ryan Kampe, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the film’s emotional depth and passionate storytelling. “Atán and Pivato have crafted a delicately balanced film that threads the fine needle of emotional subtlety and full-blooded passion,” Kampe said. This film promises to be a thrilling watch for audiences, exploring the duality of human existence.
Revisiting themes of motherhood and societal expectations
In “Surfacing”, Atán and Pivato delve deeper into the themes of motherhood and societal expectations, which they first explored in “The Desert Bride”. The film follows Sofía (played by Maricel Álvarez), a woman torn between her loyalty to her misguided son (Angelo Mutti Spinetta) and the happiness she has found during his incarceration. The directors describe the film as an exploration of the limits Sofía must confront on her journey, with her body becoming a battlefield where the roles of mother and wife vie for dominance.
A visual homage to Buenos Aires
The film’s narrative is elevated by its evocative surroundings, with many scenes filmed at unique locations in Buenos Aires, such as the antiquated Chacarita Cemetery. The directors pay homage to the city, reflecting its own struggle with duality. The Underground Pantheon of the cemetery, with its noble architecture and dramatic chiaroscuro effect, serves as a central visual anchor for the film. This interplay of contrasting spaces mirrors the internal contradictions of the protagonist, Sofía.
A collaborative effort
“Surfacing” is a Spanish-Argentine co-production, featuring a talented cast that includes Greta Fernández and Cristina Banegas. The film is produced by Fernanda del Nido at Spain’s Setembro Cine, Juan Pablo Miller at Argentina’s Tarea Fina S.L.R, and Cristina Zumárraga at Spain’s Tandem Films S.L. The project has received support from various organizations, including RTVE, ICAA, ICEC, INCAA, the Ibermedia Programme, and Europa Creativa MEDIA. The film is set to be released in Spain by Madrid-based Bteam Pictures in March 2025.
A fresh perspective on cinema
Atán and Pivato hope that “Surfacing” will provoke questions and spark imagination, freeing audiences from polarized thinking and opening the door to alternative perspectives. Their intention is to offer a fresh take on the dialogue cinema opens as a form of artistic expression about the world in which we live. The film’s imagery powerfully manifests the pain, absence, and internal conflict experienced by the protagonist, making it a compelling watch for cinema enthusiasts.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit Surfacing.
Personal reflections for cinema enthusiasts
As a cinema enthusiast, the anticipation surrounding “Surfacing” is palpable. The film’s exploration of motherhood and societal expectations resonates deeply, offering a nuanced portrayal of a woman’s internal struggle. The directors’ choice to film in Buenos Aires, particularly at the Chacarita Cemetery, adds a layer of authenticity and depth to the narrative. The visual contrast between the underground depths and the sunlit park above symbolically reflects the protagonist’s internal conflict, making it a visually and emotionally engaging experience.
In-depth analysis
“Surfacing” stands out for its ability to weave emotional subtlety with full-blooded passion. The directors’ previous work, “The Desert Bride”, set a high bar, and “Surfacing” promises to build on that foundation. The film’s narrative is not just about a woman’s struggle but also about the societal commandments that dictate our lives. This duality is reflected in the film’s visual style, with bright, clear spaces meeting dark, shadowy corners, echoing the protagonist’s inner turmoil.
Distinctive comments
The film’s ability to provoke questions and spark imagination is a testament to Atán and Pivato’s storytelling prowess. Their intention to offer a fresh perspective on cinema is evident in the film’s imagery and narrative. “Surfacing” is not just a film; it’s an artistic expression that challenges societal norms and invites audiences to explore alternative perspectives.
For those eager to delve into the world of “Surfacing”, the film’s trailer offers a glimpse into its emotional and visual depth. Visit Surfacing to watch the trailer and learn more about this compelling film.
Final thoughts
“Surfacing” is a film that promises to leave a lasting impact on its audience. With its exploration of motherhood, societal expectations, and internal conflict, it offers a fresh perspective on the human experience. The film’s visual style, narrative depth, and emotional resonance make it a must-watch for cinema enthusiasts. As we await its release, the anticipation continues to build, and “Surfacing” is set to make waves at the San Sebastián Film Festival and beyond.