Sanfic 2024: A celebration of Latin American cinema and TV
Santiago, Chile — The 2024 edition of Sanfic, Santiago de Chile’s premier film festival, concluded with a grand awards ceremony, where Santiago Maza and Diego Luna’s passion project, State of Siege, took top honors. This year’s event, running from August 18-25, showcased the festival’s growth and its significance as a key cultural event in South America.
Sanfic’s growth and resilience
While other Latin American film festivals have faced budget cuts, Sanfic has not only maintained but also expanded its reach. By 2023, ticket sales had bounced back to pre-pandemic levels, with 40,000 tickets sold. Gabriela Sandoval, head of Sanfic Industria, noted a 55% increase in submissions, reflecting the post-pandemic recovery and the festival’s growing appeal.
“The caliber of this year’s entries was exceptionally high, prompting us to introduce new awards,” Sandoval remarked. “It’s the best edition we’ve had in terms of projects, players, new voices, and incentives.”
Carlos Nuñez, a key figure at Sanfic, highlighted the return of young audiences to cinemas and the festival. The rise of streaming services has also increased interest in non-English language films and series, benefiting Sanfic’s diverse lineup.
Chile’s cinematic prowess
Sanfic opened with a tribute to Chilean filmmakers Pablo Larrain, Sebastián Lelio, and Maite Alberdi. Since 2012, their films have garnered five Academy Award nominations, making Chile a standout in South American cinema. Their works, such as Jackie, Spencer, and The Mole Agent, have received international acclaim for their unique storytelling and artistic vision.
Fremantle recently renewed its first-look deal with the Larrains’ Fabula, underscoring the global recognition of Chilean cinema.
Mastering co-productions
In an era where co-productions are essential to manage costs and pool expertise, Chile has excelled. Nearly half of the industry news from Sanfic Industria involved international co-production deals. Notable examples include Quijote Films’ involvement in The Settlers and Griselda González Gentile’s new project, Hollow Flowers.
Emerging talent
Sanfic and Sanfic Industria have become platforms for new talent. First-time filmmakers Laura Donoso and Alfredo Pourally won awards for their debuts, Sariri and The Fabulous Gold Harvesting Machine, respectively. Eleven of the thirteen festival prize winners were first or second-time filmmakers, highlighting the depth of talent in Chile.
Focus on female directors
A panel session at Sanfic Industria brought together female filmmakers to discuss gender perspectives in film and series. Moderated by Sandoval, the panel included Maite Alberdi, Caro Bloj, Rocío García, and Luz Orlando Brennan. They emphasized the progress made in gender issues and the challenges that remain.
“There is more parity, but in reality, it doesn’t exist,” Alberdi noted, pointing out that 85% of U.S. films are directed by men. She shared her personal experiences of discrimination after becoming a mother, highlighting the need for continued advocacy.
Bina Daigeler’s masterclass
German costume designer Bina Daigeler, a 2024 Sanfic Industry Award recipient, delivered a masterclass on costume design. Her work spans films like Mulan, Tar, and collaborations with Pedro Almodóvar. Daigeler emphasized the importance of preparation, research, and understanding the director’s vision.
“My costumes must represent the interior world, psychology, and sentiments of the actors,” Daigeler explained. “A costume designer must understand and present a director’s vision. Every director is their own world.”
Notable deals and projects
Sanfic Industria saw several significant deals and project announcements:
- The Weird: Nicolasa Ruiz’s debut feature, produced by Cordyceps Content.
- In Her Place: Maite Alberdi’s Netflix-backed fiction film.
- El Show del Gran Luciferio: Caye Casas’ follow-up to The Coffee Table.
- The House of the Spirits: Prime Video’s adaptation of Isabel Allende’s novel.
- The Last Witness: A documentary featuring Chilean rock band Los Bunkers.
- Domestic Animals: Directed by Rafael Martínez Moreno, featuring Angie Cepeda and Juan Pablo Raba.
- Cupid’s Arrow: Ernesto Melendez’s directorial debut, with a soundtrack by Cecilia la Incomparable.
- Here is Better Than There: Directed by JP Echeverría Echegoyen, selected for the Venice Production Bridge.
- Hollow Flowers: A trans-media animation project co-produced by Luminosa Venture Films.
- Criminal Body: A co-production involving Germany, Bolivia, Argentina, and France.
- La Isla: A sci-fi thriller starring Daniela Ramirez, set to film in Southern Chile.
Sanfic 2024 has once again demonstrated the vibrancy and resilience of Latin American cinema, providing a platform for both established and emerging talents. The festival’s commitment to diversity, co-productions, and gender equality continues to shape the future of the industry.
For more information and to watch trailers of the mentioned films and series, visit the following links:
- State of Siege
- Sariri
- The Fabulous Gold Harvesting Machine
- The Mole Agent
- Jackie
- Spencer
- The House of the Spirits
- The Last Witness
- Cupid’s Arrow
- La Isla
For music enthusiasts, explore the soundtracks and albums mentioned in the article on Spotify:
Sanfic continues to be a beacon of creativity and innovation in the world of cinema and TV, celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of Latin America.