Bendita Film Sales has secured international rights to 'Donkey Princess,' the latest feature from Cristóbal León and Joaquín Cociña, set to premiere at the Locarno Film Festival.
New Delhi, India Jul 9, 2026 ALN: Bendita Film Sales has acquired international sales rights to “Donkey Princess,” the latest feature from Chilean filmmaking duo Cristóbal León and Joaquín Cociña, which is set to world premiere in the main International Competition at the Locarno Film Festival. This acquisition marks a significant moment for both the filmmakers and the sales company, as it reaffirms their ongoing collaboration and mutual appreciation for innovative storytelling.
The deal renews Bendita’s relationship with León and Cociña after the Tenerife-based sales company handled “The Hyperboreans,” the pair’s 2024 feature, which premiered in Cannes’ Directors’ Fortnight. This continuity in collaboration suggests a shared vision and trust between the filmmakers and the sales team, which is crucial in an industry where securing international distribution can be a challenging endeavor.
“Donkey Princess” marks León and Cociña’s third feature, following their debut “The Wolf House” and “The Hyperboreans.” Their previous works have established a unique niche in the film industry, characterized by a blend of visual artistry and thematic depth. Set in a fairy-tale kingdom where love has been forbidden, the film follows Princess Diana, whose father, King Arthur, outlaws love after the death of her mother. This narrative choice reflects a common theme in fairy tales: the conflict between personal desire and societal constraints.
At just 15 years old, Diana falls for Lalo, a young man from a neighboring kingdom. The forbidden nature of their love adds an element of tension and urgency to the story. When the King discovers the romance and banishes Lalo, Diana uses a magical bracelet to travel across worlds and parallel space-times in search of her lost love and her dreams. This fantastical element allows for a rich exploration of different realms and experiences, echoing the classic trope of the hero's journey.
Described by León and Cociña as their way of “reimagining the history of fantasy cinema,” “Donkey Princess” takes audiences through a series of worlds that also function as cinematic genres, transitioning from medieval fantasy to Hitchcock-inspired interiors, retro sci-fi, and real locations. This ambitious approach not only showcases their versatility as filmmakers but also reflects a broader trend in contemporary cinema where genre boundaries are increasingly blurred.
The directors noted that “Donkey Princess” differs from their previous work by featuring “actors performing in a naturalistic style” within constantly evolving visual environments. This shift towards a more grounded performance style may resonate with audiences seeking authenticity in character portrayals, contrasting with the often stylized and abstract nature of their earlier projects.
Produced by León & Cociña Films and Globo Rojo Films in Chile, “Donkey Princess” is co-produced by Metonymie in France, Viking Film in the Netherlands, Montelona Films in Uruguay, and Autentika Films in Germany. This international collaboration highlights the filmmakers' ability to engage with diverse cinematic traditions and resources, enhancing the film's production quality and reach.
“We’re thrilled to renew our collaboration with León & Cociña Films after ‘The Hyperboreans,’” said Luis Renart, CEO at Bendita Film Sales. “‘Donkey Princess’ is another remarkable leap in Cociña and León’s endlessly inventive body of work, where meticulous handcrafted filmmaking and an unmistakably original sense of humor come together in truly unexpected ways.” Renart's comments underscore the expectation that the film will not only entertain but also provoke thought and discussion among viewers.
Producer Catalina Vergara, founder of León & Cociña Films and a producer at Globo Rojo, expressed, “With this third feature, we continue to champion a way of producing and making films that fosters the creation of new cinematic narratives. In this latest work, León & Cociña take us on a journey through a story that moves across different genres, leading audiences into a new cinematic experience.” Vergara's statement emphasizes the filmmakers' commitment to innovation and their desire to push the boundaries of conventional storytelling.
The film’s score is composed by Jean-Benoît Dunckel, one half of the French electronic duo AIR, known for their work on Sofia Coppola’s “The Virgin Suicides.” The choice of Dunckel as composer suggests a deliberate effort to create an atmospheric soundscape that complements the film's visual style and narrative complexity. Music plays a critical role in enhancing emotional engagement and can significantly influence audience perception of the story.
As anticipation builds for its premiere at the Locarno Film Festival, “Donkey Princess” promises to be a unique addition to the landscape of contemporary cinema, showcasing the innovative storytelling and artistic vision of León and Cociña. The film's exploration of themes such as love, loss, and the quest for identity through fantastical elements positions it as not just a work of entertainment, but also as a commentary on societal norms and the human experience.
Furthermore, the film's presence at prestigious festivals like Locarno highlights the increasing global interest in Latin American cinema, which has been gaining recognition for its bold narratives and distinct aesthetic. This trend signals a growing appreciation for diverse voices in the film industry, encouraging filmmakers from various backgrounds to share their stories on international platforms.
In conclusion, “Donkey Princess” is not just a film; it represents a convergence of creativity, cultural exploration, and innovative filmmaking. As León and Cociña continue to carve their niche in the cinematic landscape, their work invites audiences to reflect on the complexities of love and the power of imagination, making it a highly anticipated release in the coming months.
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