Key Facts
Fandango Sales has acquired international sales rights for Sergio Castro-San Martín’s feature ‘The Chilean’ ahead of its world premiere at the Locarno Film Festival. The film is a period drama set in 1976, exploring themes of exile, immigration, and political turmoil through the story of a Chilean miner with a dangerous skill.
Plot and Setting
The narrative follows Aldo Marín, a Chilean miner who escapes the Pinochet regime and settles in Turin, Italy. There he meets Luciana, a doctor who performs illegal abortions. As Aldo attempts to rebuild his life, his past catches up with him in the form of a curse: he is an expert bomb maker. The film delves into the dualities of language, identity, and political disillusionment.
Director’s Vision
Castro-San Martín explains that the 1970s were a pivotal decade for both Chile and Italy, with parallel social and political movements. He aimed to create a period film that feels contemporary, avoiding propaganda or didacticism. The director shifted the protagonist’s goal from assassinating Pinochet (as in the source book) to a simpler, universal desire: reuniting with his family. This reframing makes the story more human and transcends ideological boundaries.
Cast and Production
Camilo Arancibia stars as Aldo, with Sara Serraiocco, Gaetano Bruno, Andrew Bargsted, and Lorenzo Richelmy in supporting roles. The film is produced by Dispàrte, Equeco, and Cinédokké in association with Redibis Film. It is inspired by Juan Cristóbal Guarello’s book Aldo Marín, Carne de Cañón but takes creative liberties.
Impact and Relevance
The film addresses contemporary issues of immigration and exile, reflecting the mass migrations triggered by forced exile in Chile and Latin America. Castro-San Martín notes that today’s political landscape has blurred ideological lines, and the film explores how revolutionary ideals have been orphaned. The protagonist’s internal struggle—accumulated anger, grief, and betrayal—mirrors a society on the brink of explosion.
What Readers Should Know
- The film premieres at Locarno, a major platform for auteur cinema.
- Fandango Sales’ acquisition signals strong international interest.
- The story is deeply personal yet politically charged, avoiding simple propaganda.
FAQ
What is 'The Chilean' about?
Set in 1976, the film follows Chilean miner Aldo Marín who flees to Turin after the coup, where he meets a doctor performing illegal abortions. His talent for building bombs threatens his new life.
Who directed 'The Chilean'?
The film is directed by Sergio Castro-San Martín.
When and where will 'The Chilean' premiere?
The film will have its world premiere at the Locarno Film Festival.
Who stars in 'The Chilean'?
Camilo Arancibia plays Aldo Marín, alongside Sara Serraiocco, Gaetano Bruno, Andrew Bargsted, and Lorenzo Richelmy.