Bendita Film Sales has secured worldwide distribution rights to “The Fortunate Isles,” a historical drama set in the 15th-century Canary Islands, prior to its international debut at the Toronto International Film Festival’s Discovery program. The film represents the second collaborative feature from directors Helena Girón and Samuel Delgado, whose previous work “They Carry Death” garnered recognition at major European film festivals including Venice and San Sebastián.
This Spanish-Greek co-production tells the story of Fátima, an enslaved woman living under a French marquis who monopolizes the archipelago’s freshwater supply. When locals resist colonial rule and the well becomes depleted, Fátima embarks on a journey across the barren terrain to secure water and ensure the community’s survival. The narrative examines themes of colonialism, resource scarcity, and collective resistance during a pivotal moment in Canary Islands history.
The cast includes breakthrough performer Luisa Ahl Laabiad alongside established actors Lou Castel and Grégoire Colin. The production involved multiple countries, with filming occurring in the Canary Islands and post-production completed in Athens. The project received financial support from Spanish film authorities, the Canary Islands regional government, the Greek Film Institute, and European funding programs, with the screenplay selected for development at several international film labs and workshops.
Originally reported by Variety →
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