Catalan Cinema Shines at the Locarno Film Festival
The 77th edition of the Locarno International Film Festival is preparing to highlight Catalan productions that have captured the attention of the public and critics. Among them, there are three notable works: ‘Salve Maria’, directed by Mar Coll; ‘Reinas’, by Klaydia Reynicke; and the short film ‘La herida luminosa’, by Christian Avilés.
Featured Productions and Their Themes
A Reflection on Motherhood in ‘Salve Maria’
The film ‘Salve Maria’, produced by Escándalo Films and Elástica Films, is one of the highlights of this edition. Mar Coll, renowned for her ability to explore complex human relationships, presents a narrative that crosses the boundaries between drama and thriller. Based on the novel ‘Les mares no’ by Katixa Agirre, the film, which focuses on motherhood, is narrated in Catalan and features the emerging talent of Laura Weissmahr, accompanied by Oriol Pla.
‘Queens’: A Global Success in the Piazza Grande
‘Queens’, another highly relevant work, will be screened in the emblematic Piazza Grande. This film has had an impressive run, having been recognized at renowned festivals such as Sundance and Berlin, where it received the Grand Prix of the Generation K Plus. Audiences will eagerly await its presentation at this prestigious festival.
Support for New Voices in Cinema
Catalan participation at Locarno 2023 is not limited to screenings, but also includes a strong representation in professional development initiatives. Carlota Darnell, from Cornelius Films, and Laura Egidos, from Contraria Media, have been chosen to participate in Match Me, a platform that supports new female producers in the film industry.
Promising Short Film Among the Selected
‘The Luminous Wound’ on the International Stage
Christian Avilés brings ‘La herida luminosa’, a short film that has been acclaimed in various competitions and is now preparing to become part of the Filmmakers Academy, a programme that promotes emerging filmmakers. Its inclusion in this festival reinforces the rich diversity and quality of Catalan cinema.
Conclusions on the Future of Catalan Cinema
With four additional projects selected for Locarno Pro – First Look, including works by directors such as Victor Diago and Ariadna Seuba, Catalan cinema is proving its worth on the international stage. The festival, which runs from 7 to 17 August, becomes a vital platform for the emergence and recognition of new voices in the film industry.