Oscar-Nominated Doc ‘La Corona’ to Be Adapted as Scripted Feature (EXCLUSIVE)

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The 2008 Oscar-nominated documentary “La Corona” is set to be transformed into a full-length narrative film for the cinema. This project is a joint effort between an experienced group of international producers and filmmakers, aiming to breathe fresh life into the captivating tale of a beauty pageant that took place within El Buen Pastor, Bogotá’s women’s maximum-security prison in Colombia.

Initially helmed by directors Isabel Vega and Amanda Micheli, the film “La Corona” gained significant recognition upon its HBO debut. It was honored with a Special Jury Mention at the Sundance Film Festival and lauded for its powerful, emotive narrative. Excited about the upcoming adaptation, the co-directors shared their enthusiasm: “We’re delighted that this distinctive tale still resonates deeply, and we can’t wait to work alongside this skilled team to share it with a wider audience.”

Upon its premiere on HBO, “La Corona,” directed by Isabel Vega and Amanda Micheli, received critical acclaim. It was recognized at the Sundance Film Festival with a Special Jury Mention and praised for its compelling emotional narrative. The directors are eager about the upcoming adaptation, stating: “We’re thrilled that this unique story continues to strike a chord, and we can’t wait to team up with this talented group to introduce it to a broader audience.

The movie explores the emotional aspects of imprisonment by focusing on females with intricate backgrounds who find resilience, hope, and friendship in an unconventional way – a beauty contest within a prison. It’s set to showcase their power and vulnerability while addressing themes such as self-identity, empowerment, and re-entering society.

As a cinephile, I’m thrilled to share that Secuoya Studios (“Zorro”), teaming up with Black Sheep Productions under the guidance of Mónica Aguirre, is spearheading this project. Alongside them, industry veterans Vince Gerardis (“Game of Thrones,” “House of the Dragon”) and Hope Rieser Farley from Startling are lending their expertise. Infinity Hill, led by Axel Kuschevatzky, Cindy Teperman, and Phin Glynn (“Argentina, 1985”), are also onboard, as well as Runaway Films, the trailblazers of the original documentary’s production.

The script for this project is being crafted by renowned writer María Renée Prudencio (“Dive,” “Señorita 89”), a recipient of the Ariel Award. Notable screenwriter María Camila Arias (“One Hundred Years of Solitude,” “Birds of Passage”) is providing script consultation. Colombian actress Natalia Reyes, known for her roles in “Birds of Passage” and “Terminator: Dark Fate”, will not only take on the lead role but will also produce the film.

Prudencio expressed her enthusiasm for the project, saying, “I’m absolutely delighted to collaborate with such an accomplished group of women who are dedicated to crafting narratives that delve into themes of empowerment and liberty during these challenging periods.

The filming will occur entirely within Bogotá, led by a team predominantly composed of women. The production is collaborating extensively with Fundación Acción Interna, established by Johana Bahamón, as well as ex-inmates and specialists in social reintegration. This partnership aims to maintain accuracy and respect while depicting the stories of imprisoned females.

The narrative centers around four females competing for the title in the yearly prison-held beauty contest, a representation of dignity and change amidst the dismal surroundings of incarceration.

This “La Corona” adaptation, powered by a talented crew, strives to shine light on previously unheard tales. The goal is to give a stronger platform to women who are typically overlooked, and ignite discussions about fairness, empathy, and resilience within the prison system.

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2025-04-02 11:16