Spain’s Batiak Films, Elora Post House Board Immigration Horror Feature ‘Tenants,’ Heading to Ventana Sur’s Proyecta (EXCLUSIVE)

As a film enthusiast with a soft spot for horror and immigrant stories, I find myself utterly captivated by “Tenants”. Having spent my formative years in Madrid myself, I can relate to the experiences of Edwin and Maria, the Peruvian protagonists, as they navigate the city in search of a better life. The fact that the film is rooted in real-life immigrant struggles makes it even more compelling.

Spanish film companies Batiak Films and Elora Posthouse have come on board as co-producers for Maria Paz Barragán’s immigration horror feature “Tenants”. The movie, set in Madrid, will be presented at this year’s Ventana Sur Proyecta sidebar by its Peruvian lead producer, Final Abierto.

Tenants” is a prime illustration of Latin America’s evolving and multifaceted genre landscape as well as its growing industrial bonds with Spain. This Spanish-language film, set in 2003, narrates the tale of Edwin and Maria, immigrants from Lima, Peru, who migrated to Madrid in pursuit of a better life. With limited means, they secure the cheapest house available, unbeknownst to them that it is haunted by racist specters intent on oppressing the couple.

As a Madrid resident hailing from Peru, Barragán explains: “This horror film carries a social message, exploring the experiences of many immigrants, particularly those like myself. The narrative unfolds towards the end of the 20th century, when Spain saw an influx of immigration reaching global highs. Peruvians were one of the most significant immigrant groups at that time. While the story is set in the past, to amplify the cultural impact, if we were to place it in today’s world, its relevance would remain just as strong.

In this project, Barragan will be at the helm and has collaborated with Spanish author Jordi Farga (“The Debut”) on drafting the script. The Association of Producers and Cinematographers of Peru’s president, Norma Velasquez, and Clara Santaolaya, founder of Batiak Films, are taking charge of production.

Velasquez expressed his enthusiasm when the topic of ‘Tenants’ arose, stating he jumped at the opportunity to be part of it. He’s been fascinated with the horror genre for quite some time, and he saw this as an ideal chance to delve into it, especially since he’d be collaborating with skilled peers like María Paz and Jordi. Additionally, the fact that this project would take place in cities significant to their individual journeys – Madrid and Lima – made it even more appealing.

Currently, “Tenants” is undergoing advanced stages of refinement, as the complete crew has been gathered and the script is being polished accordingly. The aim is to finalize the screenplay and commence filming during the winter season of 2025.

This film has garnered attention and accolades on a global scale, winning various awards and grants such as:

Batiak Films is quickly making a name for itself within the independent Spanish film industry, boasting several notable short films and features in its collection. This year alone, they have produced “Devil’s Load,” which was showcased in competition at the Miami Film Festival, and “The Human Hibernation,” an award-winning piece by FIPRESCI at the Berlinale.

Elora Posthouse has a diverse portfolio of work in Spanish productions. This ranges from high-profile advertisements for Real Madrid, Disney, and Papa John’s, to premium series like Movistar+’s “Buen trabajo” and Prime Video’s “El pueblo”. Her repertoire also includes feature films such as “En otro lugar” directed by Jesús del Cerro and Juan Francisco Viruega’s “Amenece”, which was selected for the San Sebastian International Film Festival. (Good job!)

2024-11-25 16:46

Spain’s Batiak Films, Elora Post House Board Immigration Horror Feature ‘Tenants,’ Heading to Ventana Sur’s Proyecta (EXCLUSIVE)

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