Spanish Star Paz Vega's Directorial Debut "Rita" Sells Out Key Markets

LOS ANGELES, CA - Paz Vega, known for her roles in "Spanglish" and "Lucia & Sex," has stepped behind the camera for her first feature film "Rita," which premiered at the Locarno Film Festival this August and has now secured its first significant market sales following its showcase at the American Film Market.

Sales company Filmax has successfully closed deals for distribution in the UK and Ireland with Signature Entertainment, a distributor noted for recent hits like "The New Boy" and "Unicorns," as well as the upcoming "The Dead Don’t Hurt" starring Viggo Mortensen. In a separate transaction, BookMy Show has acquired the rights for India. Ivan Díaz, head of international at Filmax, anticipates more deals on the horizon.

"Rita" is not only Vega’s directorial debut but also a deeply personal project, reflecting her own childhood in Triana, Sevilla. The film captures the bittersweet essence of a working-class childhood in 1984 Seville, focusing on young Rita, portrayed by newcomer Sofía Allepuz, whose performance has been universally praised by critics. The narrative, rich with period details and a child’s perspective, explores the harsh realities of domestic life under the shadow of an abusive father.

The film has already garnered attention on the festival circuit, with screenings at Chicago for its U.S. premiere, Valladolid for its Spanish debut, and now at festivals in Tallinn, Seville, and Huelva. Vega herself stars as Mari, the beleaguered mother in the story, highlighting the film's autobiographical elements.

Max Hart from Signature Entertainment expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “'Rita' blew us away with its incredible performances and subtle power, marking a truly impressive directorial debut from the iconic Paz Vega. We are delighted to be releasing the film in the U.K. and Ireland.”

"Rita" is scheduled for a special screening at the Seville European Film Festival this Sunday, and Vega will be honored with the Premio Luz at the Huelva Ibero-American Film Festival next weekend.

This venture into directing by Vega, coupled with the film's critical acclaim, underscores a promising new chapter in her illustrious career, proving her versatility both in front of and behind the camera.