Pluto Film Acquires Global Sales Rights for Chilean Thriller 'Summer War' - A Psychological Journey at Cannes and Tribeca
Pluto Film, based in Berlin, has acquired the global sales rights to the Chilean psychological thriller "Summer War" ("Guerra de Verano") before its debut at Cannes' Marché du Film and the 25th Tribeca Film Festival in June. Directed by Alicia Scherson, known for "Play," the film is her second adaptation of a novel by Chilean author Roberto Bolaño, following "The Third Reich." The movie features an international cast, including Dan Beirne, Lux Pascal, David Gaete, and Aline Kuppenheim, set in 1989 Chile during the end of military dictator Augusto Pinochet's regime. The story revolves around Udo Berger, a Wargame enthusiast, who becomes entangled in a mysterious disappearance while on vacation with his girlfriend Ingrid.
Pluto Film's managing directors, Daniela and Benjamin Cölle, praised Scherson's adaptation of Bolaño's work, highlighting the film's exploration of obsession and human behavior against the backdrop of the Chilean coast. The deal was brokered with producer Isabel Orellana of Araucaria Cine, who emphasized Pluto Film's understanding of positioning the film as a dark psychological thriller. "Summer War," a co-production between Chile, Uruguay, Argentina, and Italy, involves multiple production companies and was initially titled "1989" during its development at the San Sebastian Film Festival's Co-Production Forum. Scherson expressed the challenge of delving into a male protagonist's world obsessed with war games.
The film's producers, including Orellana, Juan José López, Pedro Barcia, and Nicolás Grosso, along with executive producers, are gearing up for its premiere at Cannes and Tribeca. The collaboration between Pluto Film and the production team aims to bring this unique arthouse thriller to a global audience. With its intriguing storyline and talented cast, "Summer War" promises to captivate viewers with its blend of mystery and psychological depth. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project as it makes its mark on the international film festival circuit.