Victoria Galardi returns to San Sebastian with ‘The Hedgehogs’

A celebrated filmmaker’s journey

Argentine filmmaker Victoria Galardi is making waves once again at the San Sebastian Film Festival with her latest project, The Hedgehogs (Los Erizos). This film, currently in development, is part of the festival’s prestigious co-production forum, marking another significant milestone in Galardi’s illustrious career.

A history of accolades

Galardi’s relationship with the San Sebastian Film Festival is a storied one. Her dramedy Cerro Bayo competed in 2010, earning the TVE-Otra Mirada Award. Earlier, in 2008, Lovely Loneliness, co-directed with Martin Carranza, vied for the Zabaltegi New Directors section’s hefty cash prize and won the Youth Jury Award. Her 2013 film I Thought it was a Party received nominations from the Argentine Academy for best editing, cinematography, and production design.

The plot of ‘The Hedgehogs’

Co-written by Galardi and Fabian Casas, The Hedgehogs delves into the lives of a couple who, after a decade of marriage, decide to part ways. To break the news to their young son, they plan one last family trip to the sea. The off-season coastal town they visit is a place filled with memories, greeted by a caretaker, his dog Rita, and a couple that reminds them of their lost youth.

As they engage in beach games, share meals, and have quiet arguments, the looming conversation with their son casts a shadow over their time together. When Rita goes missing and a storm approaches, their search for her becomes a metaphor for their fear—not just for the dog, but for the end of their love.

A deeper look into the narrative

Galardi explains, “It seems interesting to me to pose the contradiction of taking a family trip to a place where they were happy to end the separation, as if the memories of a life together were necessary to declare its end. And to also show the difficulty the couple faces in making and executing that decision: how painful it is to separate, how long it takes to unravel the bond that joins two people for years.”

The cast and production

The film features a talented cast led by Esteban Bigliardi, Pilar Gamboa, and Laura Paredes. The production is helmed by Argentina’s Tarea Fina, a company founded in 2009 by Juan Pablo Miller, known for producing both fiction and documentary films. Tarea Fina’s credits include the 2011 Cannes Golden Camera winner Las Acacias, La luz incidente, Los Sonámbulos, Ciencias Naturales, Alemania, and El llanto.

Uruguay’s Cinekdoque, founded by acclaimed filmmaker Federico Veiroj (La vida util, Acne), co-produces the film. Miller, Veiroj, and Marcela Avalos serve as producers for this family drama, which is slated to begin shooting in March and April of next year.

The significance of San Sebastian

The 72nd San Sebastian Film Festival, running from September 20 to 28, continues to be a beacon for filmmakers worldwide. For cinema enthusiasts, this festival is a treasure trove of diverse narratives and innovative storytelling. Galardi’s return with The Hedgehogs is a testament to her enduring talent and the festival’s commitment to showcasing compelling cinema.

Personal reflections for cinema lovers

For those who cherish the art of filmmaking, Galardi’s work offers a profound exploration of human relationships and emotions. Her films are not just stories but experiences that resonate deeply with audiences. The Hedgehogs promises to be another poignant addition to her repertoire, inviting viewers to reflect on the complexities of love, separation, and the passage of time.

Explore more

For a sneak peek into The Hedgehogs, check out the trailer. Dive into the world of Victoria Galardi and discover the magic she brings to the screen.

By weaving personal reflections and in-depth analysis, this article aims to provide a comprehensive look at Victoria Galardi’s latest project and her significant contributions to the world of cinema.