Acclaimed Mexican actress Marina de Tavira, who received an Oscar nomination for her remarkable portrayal of a mother in Alfonso Cuarón’s critically acclaimed film “Roma”, is set to star in the highly anticipated series “Home Eight” (“Casa 8”). This project has quickly become one of the standout offerings at this week’s Bogotá Audiovisual Market (BAM), showcasing the vibrant landscape of Latin American cinema.
In exciting casting news, the talented actress Verónica Bravo, recognized for her nomination for the 2023 Canacine Prize for her role in “Sobreviviendo Mis XV”, is also attached to play a pivotal role in this gripping series. Her involvement adds significant star power and depth to the production, which is generating considerable buzz among industry insiders and audiences alike.
Currently in the development phase and actively seeking international production partners, “Home Eight” is being produced by the renowned Mexican production company Mandarina Cine. This year, Mandarina won a prestigious SXSW Audience Award for their film “Corina,” which has been nominated for an impressive eight Ariel Awards, showcasing their commitment to producing high-quality cinematic experiences that resonate with viewers.
Mandarina Cine also produced the critically acclaimed film “The Devil Smokes (and Saves the Burnt Matches in the Same Box)”, which won the first Best Film award in the inaugural Berlinale Perspectives section, specifically dedicated to debut films. This recognition highlights Mandarina’s role as a key player in the landscape of contemporary Mexican cinema.
The film “The Devil Smokes” was described by Variety as “a childhood survival story as unusual and beguiling as its title.” Similarly, “Home Eight” is positioned as one of the most unique selections at BAM. This psychological thriller intertwines elements of fantasy and metaphysical themes, centering on a group of terminally ill women seeking solace in a clandestine home where they can die with dignity. However, their plans are disrupted by a shocking revelation: The Witch, their spiritual and scientific leader, has developed an experimental method capable of reviving the dead, according to the synopsis.
When one of the deceased unexpectedly returns to life, the once-cohesive community begins to fracture. The Witch’s assistant becomes their greatest adversary, igniting a profound ethical and emotional struggle as the women grapple with the reality of accepting death or fighting against it. This transformative journey will alter their lives forever, bringing to light the complexities of life, death, and the human spirit.
“Brenda Navarro is an essential voice in our literature, crafting heart-wrenching worlds that resonate on both personal and societal levels. I would be thrilled to collaborate on this project,” stated de Tavira, expressing her enthusiasm for the story and its themes. The collaboration promises a captivating exploration of profound human experiences.
“I am deeply moved by the opportunity to be part of a collective of women telling a courageous, risky, painful, and honest story, all guided by one of the most exciting young voices in our country’s contemporary literature, Brenda Navarro. May the story be told with authenticity and depth!” de Tavira passionately remarked, emphasizing her commitment to the narrative.
“As a storyteller, Brenda Navarro possesses the sensitivity and social awareness necessary to write from a place of pain, aiming not to replicate it but to dismantle it. Her emergence in the film and television landscape, with imagery as potent as her writing, is a natural evolution. At Mandarina, we are honored and excited to embark on this journey with her,” said Carlos Hernández Vázquez, co-founder of Mandarina Cine, who established the company with Gabriel Gavica in 2018. Their vision continues to shape the future of Mexican cinema.
Bravo further noted that she and Hernández are actively pursuing international partnerships to produce “Home Eight,” describing it as “a narrative about women with a community primarily composed of women, where the central theme is the fear of living in the face of an unjust world, filled with women striving to assert control over their choices. ‘Home Eight’ is a horror drama where the desire to die with dignity is met with the punishment of eternal life.” This thought-provoking premise tackles significant societal issues and personal struggles.
“Home Eight” was awarded first prize in the 2024 Episode 0 category at the prestigious Guadalajara Film Festival, further establishing its potential impact within the industry and among audiences.
Navarro was also part of the writers’ room for the acclaimed series “Cometierra”. Her debut novel, “Empty Homes,” has been translated into 10 languages, reflecting her international appeal. Additionally, the film adaptation of “Ceniza en la boca” is currently in post-production, directed by the talented Diego Luna, promising to bring her evocative storytelling to the big screen.
Co-produced by Mandarina Cine and marking a significant collaboration between Turkey and Mexico, Seyfettin Tokmak’s “Empire of the Rabbits” received accolades for Best Director in Taipei and Best Screenplay at the Tallinn Black Nights Festival, further showcasing the quality of productions emerging from this vibrant cinematic landscape.
Marina de Tavira is represented by the Talent on the Road agency, while Verónica Bravo is represented by Lumina Management, reflecting their prominence in the entertainment industry and the growing recognition of their talents.
