Nour Films Takes French Rights to Lav Diaz’s ‘Magellan’ Ahead of Cannes Premiere (EXCLUSIVE)

Distribution agreement sealed by Sales agency Luxbox for “Magellan,” directed by Lav Diaz and featuring Gael García Bernal, with Nour Films for France. This film will make its debut in the Premiere section of the Cannes Film Festival during its world premiere.

The movie, set in the 16th century, tells the story of Magellan, a daring Portuguese explorer brimming with ambition. Facing opposition from the King of Portugal who dismisses his vision of world discovery, Magellan manages to convince the Spanish royalty to finance his groundbreaking journey across the seas to the mythical eastern lands.

The journey proves more challenging than anticipated, leaving the team on the brink due to food scarcity and rebellion among the crew. Upon arrival at the Malayan Island Chain, Magellan’s perspective shifts dramatically. He develops an intense passion for conquest and conversion, which in turn ignites revolts beyond his ability to suppress.

(This version retains the original meaning while using more contemporary language and simpler sentence structures.)

In a collective announcement, the Nour Films team declared: “The film ‘Magellan,’ crafted by Lav Diaz, showcases exceptional evocative strength, setting it apart as a fresh masterpiece. This Filipino director presents a visual tapestry of the 16th century that envelops viewers in a rich sensory experience while offering an unyielding political viewpoint on colonial brutality.

Gael García Bernal portrays a complex and unnerving Magellan, brimming with inconsistencies. His captivating yet reserved acting brings this legendary figure to life, never glorifying him. We’re honored to back this monumental film by Nour Films.

At Berlinale 2018, “Touch Me Not” was distributed by Nour Films, the same company that also handled the distribution of the Cannes 2023 Caméra d’Or winner, “Inside the Yellow Cocoon Shell.” Additionally, they distributed the Berlinale 2023 documentary “Seven Winters in Tehran” and the Berlinale 2024 Teddy Award winner, “All Shall Be Well.

The creator of the film “Magellan” is Joaquim Sapinho, from Rosa Filmes in Portugal. Alongside him, there are several co-producers: Andergraun Films (Spain), Black Cap Pictures (Philippines), Ten17P (Philippines), El Viaje Filmes (Spain), Volos Films (Taiwan), Lib Films (France), and AKP21 (France).

Diaz’s past movies include “The Woman Who Left,” which was awarded the Venice Golden Lion in 2016, and “From What Is Before,” which received the Golden Leopard at Locarno in 2014.

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2025-05-09 21:30