Chilean production company Clara Films has taken a significant step by establishing an outpost in Madrid. This expansion marks their entry into the local Spanish film scene with the debut feature “An Imaginary Kingdom” (“Un Reino Imaginado”). The directorial venture is headed by Chilean filmmakers residing in Madrid, Belén Abarza and Eduardo Bunster. This strategic move reflects their commitment to blending cultural narratives and enhancing international cinematic collaborations.
Setting the Stage in Madrid
Clara Films’ decision to set up operations in Madrid underscores its ambition to tap into Spain’s thriving film industry. Company head Clara Larraín, who has been settling in Madrid since 2022, shared her enthusiasm: “We’re excited to join ‘An Imaginary Kingdom,’ which feels especially fitting as our first production in Spain.” Larraín emphasized the film’s artistic depth, highlighting how its themes of fragility are expressed with tenderness and humor.
Clara Films, esteemed for its role as an associate producer of the Venice Best Screenplay winner “The Ivy,” continues to forge its path. Larraín will also be present at Madrid’s Iberseries & Platino Industria, further cementing their presence in the Spanish film arena.
The Minds Behind the Magic
The project benefits from the creative synergy of Abarza and Bunster, whose backgrounds in cinematography and the performing arts bring layered storytelling to the screen. Their previous collaborations include the short films “Teo” and “The Flight of Chaika”, which have garnered attention at international festivals. “An Imaginary Kingdom” follows Juan Reyes, a Chilean playwright dealing with the challenges of life as an undocumented migrant in Madrid. His journey intersects with Lola, a young woman from Murcia, creating a poignant story of friendship and resilience.
Drawing from personal experiences, the film blends fiction with documentary-style elements, offering an intimate portrayal of life in a new land. The directors see their work as “a space where affection and hardship can coexist,” aiming to highlight the displacement and humanity within everyday life.
Forging New Paths
Starting with Holoscópica and now with Clara Films as a co-producer, “An Imaginary Kingdom” symbolizes the evolving landscape of Latin American talent in Spain. Larraín stated that the collaboration strengthens “the development of a diaspora of Latin American talent rooted in the Spanish capital.” This aligns with the broader trend of Latino companies leveraging Spain’s advantageous film incentives and co-production treaties.
At the recent San Sebastian Film Festival, official announcements from ICAA hinted at Spain’s expansion of its bilateral treaties, aiming to include new agreements with countries in Asia. This strategic move promises to foster cross-cultural collaborations and diversify storytelling in the global film industry.
