Diego Peretti’s directorial debut: “Death of a Comedian” set for 2025 release

A new chapter for Diego Peretti

Renowned Argentine actor Diego Peretti is stepping into the director’s chair for the first time with his feature film, Death of a Comedian (“La Muerte de un Comediante”). Scheduled for release in 2025, the film has already been acquired for world sales by FilmSharks, marking a significant milestone in Peretti’s illustrious career.

From TV star to film director

Peretti first gained widespread recognition through his role in the TV series The Pretenders (2001-04), directed by Damián Szifrón. Known for his versatility, Peretti has excelled in both comedy and drama, with notable performances in It’s Not You, It’s Me and The German Doctor. His ability to blend humor with thrilling narratives was also evident in The Heist of the Century.

Collaborating with Javier Beltramino

For his directorial debut, Peretti has teamed up with Javier Beltramino, a respected figure in Argentina’s animation scene and a former production manager at Telefonica Studios. Beltramino’s expertise in visual storytelling is expected to bring a unique aesthetic to the film.

Plot and character insights

Currently in post-production, Death of a Comedian stars Peretti as Juan Debré, an actor who has spent his entire career playing the hero of a TV series, unaware of his true self. Upon being diagnosed with a terminal illness, Debré escapes to Belgium, the land of his childhood hero—a forgotten comic book character. There, he embarks on a quest to become a real-life hero, risking his life for a just cause.

A journey with engaging characters

Debré’s journey leads him to three young, engaging immigrants, and together they embark on a mission that could provide the answers he seeks. The film also stars Malena Villa, who has been building an impressive resume with roles in El Angel, 100 Days to Fall in Love, Matadero, and The Wailing, which was prized at San Sebastian last year.

Visual and narrative style

To portray the protagonist’s existential crisis, Peretti has chosen to use visual and narrative resources that steer away from solemnity. Instead, the film relies on the aesthetics of comics to explore deep themes with a childlike perspective. Peretti cites surrealist René Magritte, emphasizing the importance of viewing the ordinary with fresh eyes: “I want to breathe new life into the way we look at the ordinary things around us. But how should one look? Like a child, the first time it encounters a reality outside itself.”

Community-based production

Death of a Comedian is produced by Orsai, a company known for financing its projects through a community-based crowdfunding model involving over 15,000 participants. The company is headed by Hernán Casciari, a multi-talented media figure who has expanded from radio in Spain to writing books, stage plays, and producing films and series.

Industry buzz and future prospects

FilmSharks’ international sales and acquisitions executive Federico Pascua will be introducing the film to buyers at this week’s Iberseries Platino & Industria. Pascua expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “Diego Peretti is one of the most renowned actors in Latin America, and we’ve been in love with this amazing project since day one. Teaming with Hernán Casciari’s Orsai vision to produce this film was a great match.”

Final thoughts

Death of a Comedian promises to be a compelling blend of drama, humor, and existential exploration, brought to life by a talented cast and crew. As Peretti transitions from actor to director, audiences can look forward to a film that challenges perceptions and offers a fresh take on the hero’s journey.

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