Sci-fi thriller ‘La Isla’ begins filming in October
A new chapter in Chilean television
The highly anticipated sci-fi thriller series “La Isla” is set to begin principal photography this October. This series, which has already garnered attention at prestigious events like Sanfic Series Lab, Conecta Fiction, and Iberseries, promises to be a groundbreaking addition to the genre.
Stellar cast and intriguing plot
Daniela Ramírez, known for her International Emmy-nominated performance in “Isabel: The Intimate Story of Isabel Allende,” will star alongside Néstor Cantillana from “NO.” The series, penned by Felipe Carmona (“Prison in the Andes”), follows a determined detective (Ramírez) who returns to her hometown in the mysterious Chiloé archipelago. Her mission: to investigate the disappearance of a Mexican archaeology student. The plot thickens as she grapples with the possibility that the case might be linked to the mythical Friendship Island, a place rumored to be associated with numerous disappearances, unexplained healings, and extraterrestrial activity.
Exploring global themes through local mythology
Producer and showrunner Pablo Díaz del Rio of Rio Estudios, Chile, emphasizes the series’ ambition to tackle global issues. “We want to tell a story that explores global issues, such as imagining life beyond Earth, the end of a cycle in humanity with the emergence of artificial intelligence, while also incorporating the rich cultural identity and mythology unique to southern Chile,” he said.
A new directorial vision
Rodrigo Susarte (“Gen Mishima,” “Invunche”) will take over directing duties from Claudia Huaiquimilla, who had to step down due to scheduling conflicts. Susarte’s vision for the series is both ambitious and thought-provoking. “We are at the beginning of the end of the world; society is fractured, and there is no point of return. Established values are crumbling, making it almost impossible to distinguish between good and evil in today’s societies. This framework seems fundamental to me in creating such a particular universe as ‘La Isla,'” he said.
A unique narrative approach
Susarte is particularly drawn to themes of metamorphosis and transformation. “Subverting the genre, articulating new universes necessary to expand the narrative logic that exists today in our film industry. The theme of metamorphosis and transformation is central to my artistic vision. I am drawn to the idea of showing extreme physical and psychological changes as a metaphor for personal and collective evolution,” he added. “In ‘La Isla,’ this journey allows us, through an episodic structure, to explore these points. The universality of loss and the fear of the unknown are also key topics in the story, transforming into possible narratives within the logic of science fiction. This motivates me to create a unique universe where the imaginative space can be reinterpreted, giving this series a distinctive quality for films made in the Southern Cone.”
Filming and production details
Principal photography is set to begin on October 21 in the Los Ríos region of Chile. Rio Estudios is actively seeking a Mexican co-producer for Season 2, which is likely to be set in Mexico. According to Díaz, there is a similarly mysterious island in Mexico called Isla Vermeja.
The role of VFX in ‘La Isla’
Backed by state-run agencies CNTV and Corfo, the series is co-produced by Filmo Estudios, the Santiago-based post-production/VFX house behind notable works like Pablo Larrain’s “El Conde” and Maite Alberdi’s Oscar-nominated “The Eternal Memory.” “Because this is a sci-fi thriller heavy in VFX, Filmo Estudios plays a vital role in the aesthetics and narrative of the series,” said Díaz.
Distribution and future prospects
Miami-based MGE, run by Esperanza Garay, will handle the distribution of the series. With such a strong team and compelling storyline, “La Isla” is poised to make a significant impact on the sci-fi genre and beyond.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit La Isla.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the upcoming series “La Isla,” offering insights into its themes, production details, and the creative minds behind it. Whether you’re a fan of cinema, TV series, or just love a good sci-fi thriller, “La Isla” is definitely one to watch out for.