Mubi to Release ‘La Mesías,’ From Cannes Best Director Winners, in the U.K., Germany, Canada, Australia and Beyond (EXCLUSIVE)

Mubi has acquired “La Mesías,” a six-part Spanish series from directors Javier Ambrossi and Javier Calvo, who won the Cannes Best Director award for their film “La Bola Negra.” The show will be released in several countries, including the U.K., Canada, Australia, Germany, and beyond.

“La Mesías” features a complex narrative structure that jumps back and forth between different time periods. By using 16 mm film in certain scenes, the show effectively captures the impressionism of memory and highlights the fragility of human recollection.

At its core, “La Mesías” is a powerful critique of the messianic complex – where individuals or groups claim divine authority and demand absolute loyalty. The central family is torn apart by their mother’s fanatical devotion to Christianity, which culminates in her declaring herself the daughter of God. This bizarre scenario serves as a catalyst for Enric’s quest to rescue his sisters from their overbearing mother.

Through its characters’ struggles, “La Mesías” highlights the importance of education and critical thinking in breaking free from ideological conditioning. As Javier Calvo noted during our set visit, “It’s very difficult to unlearn what you’ve been taught – I’m talking about education – the past resounds in your body forever.” The show explores this theme as characters grapple with their own experiences and try to make sense of the world around them.

The show also raises questions about the responsibility that comes with influence. Montse, the messianic mother, has a profound impact on her children’s lives, shaping their perceptions of reality and dictating their actions. This theme is echoed in the present day as Enric seeks to rescue his sisters from her grasp.

“La Mesías” boasts a talented cast, including Roger Casamayor, Macarena García, and Carmen Machi. The show’s score, composed by Rosalía producer Raül Refree, adds depth and atmosphere to the narrative, while the cinematography effectively captures the beauty of rural Spain.

In an era where faith-based programming often prioritizes didacticism over nuanced exploration, “La Mesías” stands out as a bold and unflinching portrayal of the complexities of family and faith. With its complex characters, non-linear narrative structure, and thought-provoking themes, this series is sure to captivate audiences in multiple countries.

As Enric navigates his past and present, he grapples with the legacies of his upbringing – a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. “La Mesías” offers a powerful warning about the dangers of unchecked influence and the importance of critical thinking in shaping our lives. With its release on Mubi, this Spanish series joins a growing list of international productions that are pushing the boundaries of storytelling and challenging audiences to think critically about the world around them.