Italian
ECAM nurtures new talent with a mystical, politically charged narrative
Exploring new horizons with “The Wanderers”
Madrid’s ECAM Incubator is once again lighting the path for up-and-coming talent in the film industry. This time, it’s on the wings of “The Wanderers” (“Los olvidados”) by Jorge Cantos. This ambitious project is developed by Entre las Piedras and Mammut, produced by Eva Bodas, Álvaro Díaz Calvo, Sara de la Fuente, and Alberto Tortes, promising a poignant blend of social realism and mystical elements.
A journey of discovery
The Wanderers follows Hamza, an unaccompanied minor with unique extrasensory abilities, on an evocative journey to France. Guided by his dedicated social educator, Lucero, Hamza traverses the rural landscapes of Spain. Throughout this journey, past traumas surface, and the duo navigates the fragile boundaries of love and identity. Shooting is projected to start in late 2025 or early 2026, with the team actively seeking additional financing and international partnerships.
Unveiling the depths of love
In this film, Cantos skillfully weaves an intimate yet expansive narrative, fundamentally centered on the concept of love—the kind that stretches the limits of personal sacrifice. “The main theme is love, or rather, the boundaries of love,” Cantos explained. “It’s about what one chooses to do simply because the person they love needs them to.” Each character’s journey is marked by the wounds and growth of childhood, intricately detailed through a tapestry of emotions.
Magical realism adds another layer of depth to Hamza’s character, though Cantos underscores that this magic is not flamboyant. “It’s sensory, more tied to the characters’ emotions,” he elaborated, revealing how these subtle mystical elements enrich the storytelling.
A new perspective on social cinema
Producer Eva Bodas, who has been recognized for her emerging influence in the industry, emphasized the personal nature of the film. “We wanted to step beyond the conventional portrayals of unaccompanied minors. Hamza is a beacon of hope, light, and potential. His journey highlights the emotional battles many face, offering a fresh perspective,” she shared.
After participating in respected development programs such as The Film Academy Residency, The Incubator, and FocusCOPRO at Cannes, the team is gearing up for the EAVE Marketing Workshop in Luxembourg this November. A primary goal includes securing co-production partners in France that align with the narrative, while Spanish broadcasters like RTVE are being approached to present the project.
Social relevance and cinematic innovation
Hamza’s story is strikingly reflective of today’s European political climate. Cantos pointed out that the media often paints unaccompanied minors negatively, depicting them as threats or burdens. “We aimed to challenge that narrative. We wanted to display another side of these children—one that is hopeful and capable of healing,” remarked Cantos. This reciprocal relationship is beautifully depicted through Hamza and Lucero, as both characters find solace and purpose in one another.
The structure of The Wanderers stands out remarkably. Divided into three segments, it showcases each part from the emotional perspective of one of the three main characters—Hamza, Lucero, and Lucero’s boyfriend, Diego. “The story evolves, but the viewpoint shifts,” Cantos noted, offering a unique way to deeply connect with each character.
Blurring the lines between fiction and reality
Bodas aims to create politically charged cinema infused with a hint of magic. “Our goal is to blend fiction and non-fiction while narrating a deeply personal story about love, family, and the challenges that unaccompanied minors face,” she added.
With its meticulous mix of social realism, magical nuances, and emotionally resonant character dynamics, “The Wanderers” promises to meet and exceed its ambitious goals. For more on this unfolding narrative, stay updated and share your thoughts on our social media channels. Don’t miss a beat on new releases and cinematic insights by following us!
