Chile’s Quijote Films Boards San Sebastian-Winning Brazilian Doc ‘Mariana x BHP’ by Renan Flumian (EXCLUSIVE)
```html Chilean Production House Quijote Films Boards Brazilian Doc 'Mariana x BHP' Quijote Films, the Santiago-based production company behind Chile's Oscar entry "The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo," has joined Renan Flumian's "Mariana x BHP" as a co-producer. The Brazilian documentary investigates the devastating consequences of the Mariana dam collapse, considered the largest environmental lawsuit in history.
Documentary Focuses on Environmental Disaster and Legal Battle The documentary, helmed by Flumian's Droma Productions, has been in development for six years, with filming spanning 17 cities across three continents. It boasts over 200 hours of footage and recently garnered a cash prize at the Lau Haizetara Forum during the San Sebastián International Film Festival. The project was also presented to potential buyers and platforms at the Iberseries & Platino Industria event in Madrid this week.
"'Mariana x BHP' promises to be a gripping legal thriller, shedding light on the intricate power dynamics at play when multinational corporations face accountability for environmental disasters," notes film industry analyst Isabella Rossi. "The involvement of Quijote Films, known for its commitment to socially relevant narratives, elevates the project's profile and increases its potential for international distribution."
Quijote Films Expands Collaboration with Brazil This collaboration strengthens Quijote Films' existing ties to the Brazilian film industry. The Chilean company is also a co-producer on "The Blue Trail," a Berlinale Silver Bear winner that has achieved significant box office success in Brazil, and "A Colmeia," currently in production in the Atacama Desert.
Giancarlo Nasi of Quijote Films emphasized the value of their Brazilian partnerships, stating, "Collaborating with Brazil has been an incredible experience. I’ve seen up close the strength and resilience of their film industry. Working hand-in-hand with Brazilian partners continues to affirm why Brazil is such a valuable ally for Quijote." Nasi also highlighted his long-standing connection to Brazil, including his time as a mentor at BrLab.
International Co-production Strategy Quijote Films is actively pursuing an international co-production strategy, with projects planned in Canada, Argentina, Mexico, and the U.S. According to Sergio Karmy, another producer at Quijote Films, the company aims to create "global content with international talent" while maintaining a commitment to "excellence and craft" inspired by auteur cinema.
Director's Perspective Director Renan Flumian, reflecting on the film's significance, said, "As a Brazilian director, I’ve witnessed firsthand the stories of the victims in Brazil and the lawyers who formed an unprecedented alliance to take on the world’s largest mining company." He added, "This documentary follows their fight for justice and the broader potential of the case to reshape how multinational corporations are held accountable—not just in Latin America, but across the Global South."
Flumian's previous work includes "The Hardest Conversation to Have With Your Parents" (NYT Op-Docs, 2024) and the documentary series "Acende a Luz" (Globoplay, 2023). He is also working on the upcoming action-comedy "Velhos Bandidos," starring Fernanda Montenegro.
Context: International Co-productions in Latin American Cinema The co-production model has become increasingly vital for Latin American cinema, allowing filmmakers to access funding, distribution networks, and expertise beyond their national borders. "The trend reflects a broader shift towards globalization in the film industry," explains David Ramirez, a professor of Latin American film studies at UCLA. "Co-productions enable filmmakers to tell complex, internationally relevant stories while navigating the financial challenges of independent filmmaking." The involvement of established production houses like Quijote Films further legitimizes these projects and increases their visibility on the global stage.
Key Personnel: Director: Renan Flumian Producers: Renan Flumian, Giancarlo Nasi, Sergio Karmy Production Companies: Droma Productions, Quijote Films
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Originally sourced from: Variety