Luxbox Secures Global Sales for Lisandro Alonso's 'Double Freedom' Ahead of Cannes Premiere
Luxbox, a Paris-based film sales company, has officially acquired the global sales rights for "Double Freedom," the highly anticipated follow-up to director Lisandro Alonso's acclaimed debut, "La Libertad." This acquisition positions the film for its world premiere at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival's Directors' Fortnight, marking a significant moment for both the filmmaker and the sales agency. The project continues the narrative journey of its central figure, Misael, delving into his life two and a half decades after his initial cinematic appearance, while also offering a profound commentary on artistic autonomy and evolution.
Released in 2001 within Cannes' Un Certain Regard section, Alonso's original work, "La Libertad," garnered considerable attention for its distinctive minimalist approach. This style, which prioritizes cinematic experience over conventional plot progression, made waves within the film community and was championed by influential figures such as Mexican filmmaker Carlos Reygadas. It came to symbolize a new wave of Latin American cinema, celebrated by its admirers for its embrace of creative freedom and a departure from traditional narrative structures.
"Double Freedom" revisits Misael, portrayed by Misael Saavedra, as he navigates his solitary existence as a woodcutter, a quarter-century after audiences first encountered him. A pivotal, unforeseen event disrupts his routine, imbuing the film with a potent political dimension. Beyond the character's journey, the movie itself serves as a powerful declaration from Alonso regarding the essential pursuit of creative independence and the diverse methodologies through which such freedom can be realized.
Fiorella Moretti, CEO of Luxbox, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating that the reunion of Lisandro Alonso and Misael, 25 years on, creates a profoundly political and impactful cinematic experience. She underscored the film's deeply moving and memorable quality, and reaffirmed Luxbox's pride in their ongoing partnership with Alonso, acknowledging his unique artistic vision. The collaboration builds on a foundation of mutual trust and understanding of Alonso's distinctive cinematic voice.
The production of "Double Freedom" is a collaborative effort, with Fernando Buscuñán's Chile-based Planta serving as a key producer. Planta is also involved in another film selected for Directors' Fortnight, "La Perra," directed by Chilean filmmaker Dominga Sotomayor. Additionally, Augusto Matte, operating from his London-based Dartford, is a lead producer alongside Alonso's own label, 4L. The co-production team further includes Les Films Fauves, The Match Factory, Cimarrón, Pulpa Film, and Carte Blanche, bringing together a diverse array of international partners to realize this artistic endeavor.
The film's journey to the screen has been supported by a strong and established relationship between the filmmakers and Luxbox. Bascuñán highlighted the previous successful collaboration on "Simon of the Mountain" as a crucial factor in choosing Luxbox for "Double Freedom," emphasizing the trust built and the company's deep understanding of how to position such a film in the market. Matte further reiterated that Fiorella Moretti's extensive experience working with Lisandro Alonso on distribution, international sales, and production ensures that no one comprehends his cinematic language, target audience, and the effort required to bring his work to the world better than she does. This collective expertise, coupled with the contributions of artistic producer Ilse Hughan, ensures that "Double Freedom" is in the most capable hands.
