Paz Vega’s Directorial Debut ‘Rita’ Closes U.K. With Signature Entertainment For Filmax (EXCLUSIVE)

As a seasoned movie enthusiast with a penchant for authentic stories that resonate deeply, I must say, “Rita” has piqued my interest. Hailing from Spain and directed by none other than the charismatic Paz Vega herself, this film seems to be a poignant exploration of childhood, family dynamics, and societal norms – all set against the backdrop of 1984 Seville.


In August, “Rita,” the initial directorial work by renowned Spanish actress Paz Vega (“Spanglish,” “Lucia & Sex”), will have its world premiere at Locarno. Already, it has secured significant early sales in key markets, following its debut at the American Film Market.

Film production company Filmax has entered into a partnership with Signature Entertainment for their U.K. and Ireland markets. Some of the titles that Signature Entertainment will be releasing under this deal include “The New Boy,” “Unicorns,” and Viggo Mortensen’s “The Dead Don’t Hurt.

As a movie enthusiast, I’m excited to share that in a standalone agreement, BookMy Show has secured the rights for our beloved nation, India. Meanwhile, Ivan Díaz, the head of international at Filmax, anticipates finalizing more such deals. He’s optimistic about it!

The initial sales report indicates that “Rita” is quickly gaining popularity, with its United States debut in Chicago, its domestic introduction in Spain in Valladolid, and now screenings at the Tallinn, Seville, and Huelva film festivals.

In addition to being penned by Vega, who drew inspiration from her own upbringing in Triana, Sevilla, “Rita” can be described as a poignant account – tinged with nostalgia – of a child’s idyllic yet progressively troubled life in 1984 Seville, as the school year comes to an end for Rita.

A seven-year-old child resides in a household filled with common experiences for her age, yet she often longs to leave this home, which is marked by tension due to the volatile behavior of her father, a taxi driver from Madrid who frequently lashes out at his Sevillian wife, Mari, and their younger brother, Lolo. He attributes much of his misfortune in life to her.

The intricate details resonate authentically: They include the auditory elements like the humming metallic fan at the film’s start, tactile sensations such as descending the frosty metal rungs of a bunk bed ladder, and the casual acceptance of José Manuel’s violent tendencies within a patriarchal society.

When Mari shares with her sister that she’s considering ending their marriage, her sister subtly inquires about how José Manuel might respond, given his reputation as a man of strong moral principles.

In this tale, Vega takes on the role of Mari. However, the perspective from which we see the story is that of Rita, a charming young character skillfully portrayed by Sofía Allepuz, as acknowledged by many critics.

Besides proposing that Vega could direct, “Rita” additionally suggests several techniques such as:

The deal was agreed between Diaz and Max Hart, Signature’s acquisitions & development executive.

Díaz expressed his excitement about finalizing an agreement with the esteemed Signature company. Historically, the U.K. and Ireland have been challenging territories for Spanish dramas, but this deal underscores Paz Vega’s successful debut as a director, showing that her work has managed to break through these barriers,” said Díaz in simpler terms.

Rita left us amazed by its outstanding performances and quiet strength, signifying an exceptional directorial first for the renowned Paz Vega. We’re thrilled to share this film with audiences in the U.K. and Ireland,” Hart expressed.

The movie recently premiered in Tallinn and is set to screen during the Seville European Film Festival this coming Sunday, as one of their major opening weekend features. Meanwhile, Vega won a Premio Luz award at the upcoming Huelva Ibero-American Film Festival, which begins next weekend.

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2024-11-10 20:17