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Paris, September 22, 2023 – Luxbox, a Paris-based film production and distribution company, has announced significant territory pre-sales for the highly anticipated San Sebastian competition title, “Puan.” The film, directed and written by María Alche (“A Family Submerged”) and Benjamín Naishtat (“Rojo”), aims to provide a unique perspective on Argentina’s societal landscape and its relation to European ideals, all while infusing a lighter tone compared to typical Latin American arthouse cinema.

Major Territory Buyers

The first major territory secured for “Puan” is France, with Condor Distribution leading the way. Condor Distribution has previously featured releases from renowned auteurs such as Kelly Reichardt, Casey Affleck, Agnieszka Holland, Paul Schrader, Denis Villeneuve, Michel Franco, and Ira Sachs.

Barcelona-based La Aventura Cine, known for its strong portfolio of Spanish-language titles, has acquired rights for Spain. La Aventura Cine notably released “The Permanent Picture” in 2023 and “The Rite of Spring” in 2022.

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In Brazil, Vitrine, which has been distributing films by acclaimed directors since 2010, has secured the rights for “Puan.” The film is set to captivate audiences in both Brazil and Spain.

Plot and Philosophical Duel

“Puan,” a term of endearment referring to Buenos Aires University’s Faculty of Philosophy and Literature, kicks off with the sudden death of a middle-aged man while jogging in a lush park near Puan. This event marks the beginning of a philosophical showdown between Marcelo (Marcelo Subiotto), a philosophy lecturer, and Rafael Sujarchuk (Leonardo Sbaraglio), a charismatic contender who challenges Marcelo’s claim to a coveted academic chair. As the two engage in a “hilarious philosophical duel,” Marcelo’s life and the fate of Argentina are sent spiraling into chaos.

The film explores Marcelo’s journey of self-discovery and identity as he questions his allegiance to European ideas and philosophy, ultimately pondering the direction of Argentina in the context of decolonization.

Positive Reception from Distributors

Vitrine’s director, Silvia Cruz, praised “Puan” as a “great film” and a “pleasant surprise,” while Alexis Mas, founder and CEO of Condor Distribution, expressed excitement about working with the film’s directors again, describing “Puan” as a “sophisticated comedy” that offers unique insights into the world of academia.

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Ferrán Herranz of La Aventura Cine highlighted the film’s exceptional balance between intelligence and light-heartedness, stating that “Puan” combines the qualities sought after by distributors and viewers alike.

Production Details

“Puan” is produced by Barbara Sarasola-Day and Federico Eibuszyc’s Pucará Cine, known for backing Naishtat’s previous works such as “The Movement” and “Rojo,” as well as Barbara Francisco’s Pasto Cine, a 13-year-old firm behind films like “A Family Submerged” and “The Student,” the debut film by Santiago Mitre, director of “Argentina, 1985.”

The film also boasts an impressive list of co-producers, including Infinity Hill, Pandora Filmproduktion from Germany, Atelier de Production from France, Kino Produzioni from Italy, and Bubbles Project from Brazil. These co-producers have previously collaborated on notable projects, further solidifying the international appeal of “Puan.”

“Puan” is expected to make a significant impact at the upcoming San Sebastian Film Festival, and audiences worldwide are eagerly awaiting its release as it promises to offer a thought-provoking yet entertaining take on the philosophical and societal questions of our time.

Source: https://dominioncinemas.net
Category: Film