Latin American and Spanish TV and film production: A vibrant snapshot
A new wave of storytelling
Backed by some of Latin America’s most renowned independent production labels, the Iberseries & Platino Industria’s Co-Production and Financing Forum offers a comprehensive look at the current landscape of TV and film production in Latin America and Spain. This year’s lineup is a testament to the region’s dynamic storytelling, blending social themes with entertainment genres like crime and comedy.
Spotlight on series projects
El Abogado Mattos (Colombia, Mexico)
A gripping true crime thriller, “El Abogado Mattos” revolves around David Durán, the lawyer of Colombian magnate Carlos Mattos. As Durán contemplates breaking his silence on Mattos’ bribery of judges while in jail, the series delves into the murky world of legal corruption. Produced by Federico Duran’s Rhayuela and Punta Fina, with Raul Prieto at the helm, this series promises to be a riveting watch.
Ana from Raval (Spain)
“Ana from Raval” is a social dramedy created by Mi hoa Lee, known for her standout performance in “Felix.” Set in Barcelona’s vibrant Raval neighborhood, the series follows Ana, an artist and single mother, as she navigates the challenges of raising her daughter while pursuing her dreams. Produced by La Charito Films and Angeli Pictures, this series promises a blend of entertainment, tears, and laughter.
Band of Buffoons (Spain)
From the veteran producer César Benitez’s Plano a Plano, “Band of Buffoons” is a darkly comedic action thriller. The series follows a group of artists in a psychiatric hospital who plan a heist against a big pharma company, igniting a corruption scandal. Directed by Alejandro Bazzano, the series explores the theme of being ‘different’ in a world that often values uniformity.
Daddy Issues (Spain, Colombia)
“Daddy Issues” is a dramedy and multi-platform mockumentary produced by Spain’s ECTV Media and Colombia’s Alibi Films. The series follows famed psychiatrist Samuel Mendes as he helps a journalist patient navigate paternity challenges. This series marks the debut of Colombia’s Mauricio Quintana and promises a unique blend of humor and drama.
Dad and Eleven (Mexico, U.S., Peru, Argentina, Spain)
Inspired by a true story, “Dad and Eleven” brings together eleven strangers of different ages and nationalities at a beach house, all invited by their absent yet captivating father. Created by Diego Martinez-Ulanosky at Caponeto, this series features deep, endearing characters and aims to cast a renowned global actor as the controversial patriarch.
Dangerous Love (Chile)
Set in the turbulent 1950s Chile, “Dangerous Love” tells the story of Alba, a young medic who falls for Zahiri, a member of the country’s leading drug clan. Created by Leonora González and written by Carla Stagno, this series explores the taboo of lesbianism and the complexities of love within the narcotics trade.
Duarte: Evita Behind the Icon (Argentina)
Directed by Paula Hernández, “Duarte: Evita Behind the Icon” focuses on the formative years of Eva Perón, best known as Evita. Produced by Argentine powerhouse Kapow, this series offers a portrait of a woman who built her identity and a universe for a crowd that believed in her ideals.
A Few, Good & Confident (Spain)
Set in 1977 Spain, “A Few, Good & Confident” is a thriller that follows a young delinquent who joins a revolutionary movement for prison reform. Produced by Iñaki Gómez at Bixagu Entertainment, this series portrays two years of jail-breaks, prison riots, and protests that shook Spain’s penitentiary system.
A Series of People (Spain)
From Nanouk Films, “A Series of People” follows an ex-TV star who ends up working as an extra on a chaotic shoot at a mansion. Created by Marina Jover, this series addresses timely issues with a blend of dark humor and tenderness.
Yo y punto (Spain)
“Yo y punto” is a half-hour dramedy that follows Axel, a 36-year-old woman diagnosed with premature menopause. Created by Lucas Mirvois, Mariam Hernández, and Pablo Ferreira, this series explores Axel’s journey to become a single mother.
Invited Ventana Sur project
How Grinchi and Mrs. Claus Bloodied Xtmas (Spain, Argentina)
“How Grinchi and Mrs. Claus Bloodied Xtmas” is a unique project where Grinchi, a frustrated comic artist, helps a mysterious woman dressed as Mrs. Claus dispose of a corpse. The series takes a darkly comedic turn as Grinchi’s viral comic sparks a movement for justice, turning Mrs. Claus into “The Christmas Avenger.”
Did you enjoy this article? Share it on your social channels and let us know your thoughts! Don’t miss out on the latest updates! Follow us on social media to stay informed about the newest releases.# Upcoming Latin American films to watch out for
A fresh wave of cinematic brilliance
The Latin American film industry is buzzing with a slew of new projects that promise to captivate audiences worldwide. From heart-wrenching dramas to thrilling neo-noir tales, these films showcase the region’s rich storytelling tradition and innovative filmmaking techniques. Here’s a closer look at some of the most anticipated releases.
A distant place: A tale of love and loss
A Distant Place is a poignant narrative set against the backdrop of Argentina and Spain. Directed by Alberto Lecchi, known for his work on “Epitafios” and “Madame Requin,” the film stars Ernesto Alterio and Soledad Villamil. The story, penned by Gerardo Pranteda, revolves around a pianist and a history teacher who grapple with a second chance at love amidst a devastating illness that threatens the musician’s reality. This film promises to be a deeply emotional journey, exploring themes of love, loss, and resilience.
Holy mother: A heist with heart
Holy Mother (Bendita María) is a unique intergenerational dramedy from Spain. Created by María Mínguez, the film follows María, an elderly parishioner facing eviction, who conspires with Edu, a young man on the brink of homelessness, to steal church funds meant for restoring a beloved Virgin statue. Directed, written, produced, and starred by women, this film aims to blend local and international flavors, delivering a tender yet humorous narrative that will resonate with audiences.
The invisible war: Radiation as a weapon
The Invisible War (Guerras Invisibles) is a compelling documentary from Mexico, directed by Marcela Arteaga. The film delves into radiation accidents in Mexico (1984), Brazil (1987), Chernobyl (1986), and Fukushima (2011), examining how social and economic disparities have turned radiation into a weapon in the struggle for survival. This thought-provoking piece is a triple winner at Guadalajara’s Co-Production Meeting, highlighting its critical acclaim and relevance.
Justino: A pastor’s rise
Justino is a powerful co-production between Brazil and Portugal, directed by José Eduardo Belmonte. The film tells the true story of Justino, a black and bisexual pastor who becomes a star of the Universal Church in the 1990s, leading its expansion in Europe. With distribution handled by Imovision in Brazil, this film promises to be a gripping exploration of faith, identity, and ambition.
La imagen de un crimen: A neo-noir thriller
La Imagen de un Crimen is a darkly humorous neo-noir thriller from Spain. Set up by Bixagu Entertainment, the film follows Iñaki, a retired air traffic controller who believes he has discovered a crime on Google Street View. With only a young teacher from his computer class believing him, they soon uncover a criminal conspiracy. This film, set to shoot in the Basque Country in 2026, promises to be a thrilling ride.
(Im)perfect mom: A journey through motherhood
(Im)perfect Mom (Mamá (Im)perfecta) is a collaborative effort between Colombia, Argentina, and Canada. Directed by Natalia Smirnoff, the film is inspired by a Penguin Random House bestseller and follows a new mother who develops an insatiable craving for alcohol. Distributed by Cineplex in Latin America, this film explores the unbreakable bonds between mother and child amidst the complexities of motherhood and addiction.
Mi otro verano: A love story in the wild
Mi Otro Verano is a Spanish-Uruguayan co-production directed by Marta Vazgo. The film tells the story of Carlota and Pol, whose intense affair is threatened by the shadows of their pasts. With a strong backing from producers across Spain and Uruguay, this film promises to be a raw and emotional exploration of love in contemporary times.
My little justice league: A child’s quest
My Little Justice League (Mi Pequeña Liga de la Justicia) is a heartwarming tale set in Montevideo, 1983. Directed by Bibiana Passadore, the film follows Lucía, a 10-year-old girl who creates superhero comic strips with her friends to help find her best friend’s family, who fled under suspicious circumstances. This film is a deeply emotional and personal story that can be enjoyed by audiences of all ages.
Queen of the woods: A neo-horror suspense
Queen of the Woods (Reina del Bosque) is a neo-horror suspense thriller starring Alfredo Castro and Clara Lago. Directed by Luján Loioco, the film follows a mother-to-be who is forced to take in her estranged dying father in an isolated mountain cabin. This film aims to delve deeply into emotions intertwined with the feminine experience, promising a gripping and emotional narrative.
Wildness: A Latin American Bonnie and Clyde
Wildness (Salvajes) is a crime drama set in Paris and Peru in the early ’70s. Directed by Claudia Huaiquimilla and Joanna Lombardi, the film tells the story of a past-her-prime jet-set model and a young surfer who get entangled in a flourishing narcotics business. This film aims to pay tribute to the genre while exposing its stereotypes, offering a fresh take on the classic “Bonnie and Clyde” narrative.
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