Film Factory is set to bring Icíar Bollaín’s latest film, “I’m Nevenka,” to the Berlin market. The movie recounts Spain’s first high-profile case of sexual harassment and stars Mireia Oriol, known for her role in “The Girl in the Mirror.” Many of the team members from Bollaín’s previous film, “Maixabel,” including Urko Olazaba, who won a Best Supporting Spanish Academy Goya Award for his role in “Maixabel,” will reunite with Oriol in I’m Nevenka
Disney will handle the distribution of the film in Spain, and it is scheduled for release in the fourth quarter of 2024. This acquisition by Film Factory reflects their commitment to promoting stories that not only entertain but also spark important discussions about societal issues.
“I’m Nevenka” is based on the true story of Nevenka Fernández, a young woman whose courage and resilience became a pioneering symbol in the fight against sexual harassment in Spain. At the age of 23, Fernández faced public scrutiny and societal backlash when she accused her boss, the mayor of Ponferrada, of sexual harassment in 2000. This case was a significant moment in Spain’s social and cultural landscape, occurring almost two decades before the global #MeToo movement.
Director Bollaín explained that Nevenka’s actions took place at a time when the term “harassment” was not widely recognized, and she stood up for justice and survival in the face of public scrutiny. She faced the media’s portrayal of her as a social climber.
Bollaín’s previous film, “Maixabel,” received critical acclaim and won three Goya awards. It also performed well at the box office in Spain, grossing €2.8 million ($3.0 million) in 2021, despite the challenges posed by COVID-19. Bollaín is collaborating once again with co-writer Isa Campo for “I’m Nevenka.”
“I’m Nevenka” is not only a historical account but also a reflection on enduring issues such as power dynamics, gender discrimination, and the bravery required to confront them.
Film Factory Launching at Berlin Icíar Bollaín's 'I’m Nevenka,' Starring Mireia Oriol and Urko Olazaba in a Powerful Story of Spain's First High-Profile Sexual Harassment Case … https://t.co/PzZ9ZJMI64
— Variety (@Variety) February 1, 2024
Vicente Canales, CEO of Film Factory Entertainment, expressed his excitement about joining another project by Icíar Bollaín, highlighting her influence in the Spanish film industry. He believes that “I’m Nevenka” will achieve similar success to Maixabel since it addresses a subject that unfortunately remains relevant today. Source
