‘The 47,’ a Feel-Good Chronicle of How a Bus Driver Changed Barcelona, Smashes Box Office Records in Spain

As a movie enthusiast who has spent countless hours immersed in the rich tapestry of cinematic art, I must confess that “The 47” has left an indelible mark on my heart and mind. This Spanish masterpiece, under the skillful direction of Marcel Barrena, is more than just a movie; it’s a poignant reminder of the power of unity, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit.

The Spanish-produced series “The 47,” featuring lead actor Eduard Fernández, is dominating the Best Actor Goya Awards competition and shattering box office records in Spain.

Under Marcel Barrena’s direction, who previously demonstrated a knack for appealing to a wide audience with films that tackle social issues, as seen in “Mediterráneo: The Law of the Sea”, the success of “The 47” will undoubtedly bolster TMS as it continues to expand its cinematic offerings as a major growth strategy in an increasingly competitive market landscape.

On September 6, “The 47,” primarily filmed in Catalan and distributed by Spain’s leading independent film distributor A Contracorriente Films, as well as a renowned national film champion, has now become the most-watched Catalan-language movie in cinemas over the past four decades.

Following its debut, the movie skyrocketed straight to the top of the box office rankings on September 18, which is known as ‘Spectators Day’ in Spain, a day when tickets are discounted, thereby drawing larger crowds. Notably, no other Catalan-language film has managed this feat over the past ten years.

So far, “El 47” has been screening for 10 weeks in Spanish theaters, with a total gross of approximately €2.9 million ($3.1 million) as of November 10th.

Reasons look to cut several ways.

According to its producer Javier Méndez, the 47″ television series has gained nationwide attention and popularity, both socially and in media circles. It has remarkably resonated with viewers, delivering a powerful message about the integration of people who helped construct our city outskirts. This message remains just as relevant today as it was back then, serving as a strong reminder of community spirit.

Additionally, based on local feedback, “The 47” is considered an uplifting film with social themes, but one that’s grounded in reality and emphasizes authenticity. It narrates the actual tale of Manolo Vital, a bus driver residing in Torre Baro, a hillside settlement near Barcelona constructed by immigrants, many of whom, like Vital, hailed from Extremadura.

1972 saw Vital orchestrating a large-scale protest on the local highway with the aim of securing running water for Torre Baró, which he successfully achieved. However, the neighborhood and the local Spanish Communist Party, to which Vital belonged, were more interested in establishing public transportation. Transportes de Barcelona and the Barcelona City Hall contended that due to the poor condition of the streets and their narrow, steep turns, it was impractical to introduce bus service.

On May 7, 1978, Vital, a bus driver for Barcelona’s primary public transit company, decided to prove the authorities wrong by driving bus route 47. Along his journey, he gathered supporters, turning it into a large-scale demonstration of pride among the working class in the outer districts. As a result, Torre Baró acquired its own bus route.

As a movie buff, I find ‘The 47’ particularly striking due to its portrayal of Vital, the embodiment of the common hero, brilliantly brought to life by Eduard Fernández.

This movie, jointly crafted by Barrena and esteemed screenwriter-producer Alberto Marini (“Retribution,” “Sleep Tight”), is additionally included in The Mediapro Studio Distribution’s roster for global distribution.

Méndez expressed his hope that the film’s ability to evoke empathy would resonate globally, as was observed during the Recent Spanish Cinema event in Los Angeles a few weeks ago, where the ‘El 47’ sensation seemed to break through geographical barriers.

The movie serves as a strong illustration of the importance of mobilization, as it’s crucial for Spain’s center-left Socialist Party to counteract the rising extreme right Vox party, which, at one point, appeared likely to win Spain’s last general elections in July 2023, if not checked, possibly in alliance with the conservative Popular Party.

2024-11-18 16:18

‘The 47,’ a Feel-Good Chronicle of How a Bus Driver Changed Barcelona, Smashes Box Office Records in Spain

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