Golden Goblet nominee ‘The Reborn’ brings Latin American grit to festival

The cast of "The Reborn," shortlisted for the Golden Goblet Awards Main Competition, talked about the film to the media at the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival crew meeting on Monday, June 16.

Centering on crime and redemption, the film depicts two brothers crossing the borders to embark on a journey of rebirth.

At the meeting, director Santiago Esteves unveiled the core theme: "Rebirth in this film holds a dual meaning. It signifies both a personal rebirth for the characters and a profound transformation in social and emotional connections."

Entangled in illicit activities, the character played by Pedro Fontaine undergoes significant internal conflict. 

“He faces deep contradictions," Fontaine explained. "He must overcome emotional and moral constraints while continuously growing. Ultimately, he forces himself to mature and change."

Amidst the internal turmoil, the brothers confront violence and threats. Their shared ordeal becomes a crucible, forcing painful reconciliation and a complex emotional evolution from mutual animosity towards an unexpected redemption. 

Beyond portraying intense internal conflicts and dramatic relational transformations, the cast also infused the film with layers of artistic ingenuity.

"We employed Latin American narrative style to idealize the fraternal bond we aim to convey," said producer Nicolás Grosso. "This distinct style permeates not only the narrative but also the cinematography and score."

Filmed in the majestic landscape of Mendoza, Argentina, with the Andes Mountains towering in the background, the movie integrates stylized music and meticulously crafted design elements. Every aspect reinforces the themes of brotherhood and family ties, steeped in rich Latin American cultural resonance.

Reflecting on their participation in the festival, both Santiago Esteves and Nicolás Grosso shared their aspirations for Latin American cinema in China. 

"It is an honor to participate in the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival," said Esteves. "Witnessing the remarkable boom in China's film market since 2000, we hope our work allows Chinese audiences to experience the borderless nature of cinematic art."

Nicolás Grosso then added: "May cinematic collaboration and exchange transcend borders. Chinese films should find their way to Latin American markets, just as Latin American cinema should enable more Chinese audiences to experience its unique flavor, fostering international resonance."