Renowned Chilean actors Alfredo Castro, Paulina García, and Benjamín Vicuña are set to star in the new horror series “The Unwelcome,” adapted from Ernesto Garratt’s book “Allegados.” The series premieres at the Sanfic Series LAB, part of the Santiago International Film Festival, and promises to captivate audiences with its unique blend of suspense and cultural storytelling.
Star-Studded Cast Brings Horror to Life
The dynamic trio, Alfredo Castro (“The Count”), Paulina García (“Gloria”), and Benjamín Vicuña (“Envious”), joins forces for this compelling adaptation. Based on Garratt’s book, “The Unwelcome” is the first of a trilogy that is planned to unfold over three seasons. The presence of these acclaimed Chilean stars is expected to add depth and intensity to the series.
Behind the Scenes: A Creative Collaboration
With the project making its debut at Sanfic Industria Series LAB, there is a buzz around its potential for international collaboration. Producer Claudia Pérez-Muñoz, of By LACE Films, is at the helm, having completed scripts for the second season. The series’ post-production is a collaborative effort with Yagán Films Chile for sound and Chemistry, México for image editing.
Visionary Directing Team
Director Andrés Martínez-Ríos, returning to the helm after a decade, will oversee some episodes, along with Oscar Chamo Godoy and María José San Martín. This team aims to uniquely blend fantasy and realism, elevating “The Unwelcome” beyond traditional horror storytelling.
A Story Rooted in Chilean Culture
Set in 1980s Chile, the narrative follows a young boy and his mother, played by García, living as “allegados” with their abusive relatives. The boy’s imagination manifests a vampire, portrayed by Vicuña, intertwining the mundane and the supernatural. This compelling plot weaves magical realism with social commentary, engaging audiences on multiple levels.
“The Unwelcome” is part of a diverse lineup at the Sanfic Series LAB, which includes genres like comedy, crime drama, and fantasy. As the series prepares to start filming in 2026, the anticipation continues to build for this innovative contribution to Chilean cinema.
