As part of its comprehensive focus on Spanish cinema at the Berlin International Film Festival, Selection reflects on the nation’s vibrant participation in this year’s European Film Market (EFM) Co-Production Market. This platform showcases the diverse narratives emerging from Spain, highlighting its cultural richness and creative storytelling, which continue to captivate audiences and industry professionals alike.
Among the unique Spanish films showcased at this year’s Berlinale’s 22nd Co-Production Market, a variety of genres and themes were represented. ?Konbini?, produced by Aquí y Allí Movies, stands out as a rare co-production with Japan. Meanwhile, Ainhoa Rodríguez?s ?Lady, Don?t Play? presents an intriguing anti-film noir narrative focused on female monsters. Other notable titles include ?Males and Days?, which explores a gay romantic drama set between Barcelona and London, and the family-centric stories ?March 14th? and ?Death in Torrevieja?, the latter incorporating elements of a murder thriller within a resort town backdrop.
What truly unites these five projects is their shared commitment to addressing pressing social issues, a hallmark of Spain’s emerging generation of filmmakers. This focus on relevant themes not only reflects the societal challenges faced in contemporary life but also demonstrates the filmmakers’ dedication to telling stories that resonate with audiences and provoke thought on important matters.
All five films made their market debut at the European Film Market (EFM), where they were among approximately 35 feature film projects from 27 countries participating in the Co-Production Market, which ran from February 15-19. This event is a significant networking opportunity for filmmakers and industry stakeholders looking to collaborate and explore potential partnerships within the vibrant European film landscape.
Exploring Family Dynamics in ?March 14th? (?Catorce de Marzo?) by Alberto Gross Molo and Co-Screenwriter Tom?s Bayo Encontra
One of the standout projects from this year?s Co-Production Market, ?March 14th? received a ?10,000 ($10,500) cash prize for the best new project at the Talent Project Market. Produced by Contraria Media, known for their collaboration on Gross Molo?s previous short films along with Ayhe Productions and Solita Films, this poignant narrative follows siblings Héctor (11) and Gema (6) as they navigate the emotional turmoil of their parents? impending divorce trial. With their future hanging in the balance, they must choose which parent to live with, leading to fears of separation if their choices differ. As described by Laura Egidos of Contraria Media, the film beautifully explores themes of familial love and the pain that arises from conflicts with loved ones, transcending the divorce theme to delve into deeper emotional connections.
Unveiling Human Connections in ?Konbini? by Pedro Collantes, Tomoe Kanno, and Sayaka Akitsu
?Konbini? centers on Kisayo, a sound artist struggling to make ends meet while working late shifts at a Tokyo convenience store. One night, he intervenes when a senior man attempts to steal, igniting a surprising connection between two disparate lives. Currently in early development, this co-production is supported by the Spanish Film Institute ICAA and Japan’s Tsutaya Programme. Collantes notes, ??Konbini? presents a powerful narrative that reflects a harsh reality, yet is told in such a tender manner that it captivates the audience. It?s a dream to lead and take part in this international collaboration with Culture Entertainment, one of Japan?s most dynamic production companies boasting over 30 years of experience.?
Exploring Maternal Bonds in ?Lady, Don?t Play? (?Ni?a, no juegues?) by Ainhoa Rodríguez
The film features six-year-old María who lives with her mother in a roadside hostel-restaurant in Extremadura. As her mother battles chronic stomach pain and often disappears at dawn, a disturbing roadside encounter forces them to flee. As secrets unravel, María begins to question her mother?s true nature and her own identity. Co-produced by Les Films du Worso and Tentación Cabiria, Rodríguez describes her horror film as an exploration of the ?female monster? myth, delving into maternal relationships and the conflict between personal identity and societal expectations. Told from a child?s perspective, this narrative pays homage to cinematic traditions while offering a fresh, subversive viewpoint.
Delving into LGBTQ+ Identity in ?Males and Days? (?Els homes i els dies?) by Arnau Vilaró
Produced by Nanouk Movies, Local Movies, and Lluís Mi?arro, ?Males and Days? draws inspiration from the life of the late Hispanic Studies scholar David Vilaseca. Set against the backdrop of 1992 Barcelona, the film follows Vilaseca’s return from London after completing his PhD and experiencing a tumultuous breakup. Amid the excitement of the Olympics and the AIDS crisis, he begins documenting his experiences of love between men, later achieving acclaim after it is published. Supported by ICEC, Creative Europe Media, and 3CAT, the project is also seeking support from Televisión Espa?ola and CNC. Its producers emphasize the film’s unique perspective on identity, pre-Olympic Barcelona, and the LGBTQ+ struggles seldom depicted in Spanish cinema.
Males and Days
Thrilling Mystery and Social Commentary in ?Death in Torrevieja? (?Muerte en Torrevieja?) by Adriana Arratia
Participating in the Talent Project Market at the Berlinale Co-Production Market, this co-production by Maqueta Movies and Nakamura Movies is set during a sweltering summer in the tourist hotspot of Torrevieja. It follows the story of Chetia, a single mother striving to raise her unwanted son amidst shady dealings and illegal betting operations. Her precarious existence is shattered when a tourist dies mysteriously at one of her parties. The cast includes Caterina Hurtado Fernández and Ana Jiménez La Santa. Producers highlight that 25-year-old Adriana Arratia employs a unique narrative style and is committed to shedding light on the stories of women living on the fringes of society. Her film embodies contemporary themes, strength, and raw authenticity, ensuring a resonant viewing experience.
