Snow Country: A Sci-Fi Drama Exploring Migration and Identity
Snow Country, a sci-fi drama by Víctor Iriarte from Spain and France, has been awarded the Screen International ECAM Forum Award for its strong international co-production and festival potential. The film, produced by Valérie Delpierre of Inicia Films and co-produced by Andrea Queralt of 4A4 Productions, explores migration, inherited identity, and the border between physical and virtual lives. With funding from Creative Europe Media and support from various institutions, the project aims to secure co-producers and distributors in Uruguay and Japan.
The collaboration between Delpierre, Queralt, and Iriarte, who previously worked together on Foremost By Night, has been instrumental in the development of Snow Country. The team's participation in programs like EAVE's 'Ties That Bind' has provided the necessary time and resources for Iriarte to research and write the script thoroughly. The project, set to be a Spain-France-Portugal co-production, aims to replicate the success of Foremost By Night and build on its festival run and audience response in France.
Snow Country follows the Hirata family in Uruguay and Japan, focusing on Johnny's desire to break free from tradition and his sister Kaneko's embrace of their heritage. The story unfolds against the backdrop of an economic crisis and a journey to Japan's "snow country," exploring themes of identity, solitude, and companionship. Iriarte's unique visual and sonic universe, inspired by the Japanese concept of 'yūgen,' aims to delve into the characters' inner struggles and the possibility of rewriting their destinies.
Inicia Films and 4A4 Productions, known for their successful projects like Summer 1993 and Sirât, are working together to bring Snow Country to life. With a strong emphasis on international co-production and festival potential, the film is poised to captivate audiences with its exploration of complex themes and visually stunning storytelling.