Paraguayan cinema continues to make waves internationally. The Paraguayan film Narciso, the latest feature by director Marcelo Martinessi, will have its world premiere at the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale). Specifically, in the Panorama section, a space renowned for bold and innovative storytelling. Panorama highlights films that challenge conventions and offer fresh perspectives. Festival organisers described NARCISO as a work that “engages critically with its time through a singular vision,” signalling the film’s thematic depth and unique approach.
A historic collaboration
The project marks one of Paraguay’s most ambitious international coproductions to date. Produced by La Babosa Cine alongside Sebastián Peña Escobar and Martinessi himself, the film also involves Belén Vierci and partners from Brazil, Portugal, Germany, Spain, France, and Uruguay. This collaboration demonstrates Paraguay’s increasing presence in global cinema. By combining local talent with international expertise, the film bridges cultural perspectives while maintaining a distinctly Paraguayan voice.
Set in 1959 Asunción, Narciso tells the story of Narciso Arévalos. Narciso is a young man whose passion for rock’n’roll clashes with a society under a consolidating military regime. Inspired by Bernardo Aranda’s life and a historical novel by Guido Rodríguez Alcalá, the film explores themes of desire, oppression, and social tension.
The soundtrack blends 1950s rock’n’roll with iconic Paraguayan popular music, including tracks like Che La Reina, Galopera, and Bienvenido Hermano Extranjero. These musical choices help capture the era’s energy while rooting the story in Paraguayan culture.
From Asunción to the world
Filmed entirely in Asunción, the production used over ten city locations. Also, the team employed a crew of around 60 professionals from Paraguay and abroad. Post-production, including editing, sound mixing, and visual finishing, was carried out over a year across Montevideo, São Paulo, Toronto, Lisbon, and Paris.
The film received support from INAP, the National Secretariat of Culture, and the Ibermedia Program. La Babosa Cine partnered with international production houses, including Pandora Filmproduktion (Germany), Esquina Filmes (Brazil), La Fábrica Nocturna Productions (France), BTEAM Prods (Spain), Oublaum Filmes (Portugal), Bocacha Films, and Guay Films (Uruguay).
Local cast with international appeal
Narciso features a strong Paraguayan cast, including Diro Romero, Manuel Cuenca, Margarita Irún, and Arturo Fleitas. International actors Nahuel Pérez Biscayart (France-Argentina) and Mona Martínez (Spain) bring added dimension to the ensemble. The supporting cast includes Natalia Cálcena, Aníbal Ortíz, Belén Vierci, Alberto Sánchez, Mimí Monte, Maca Candia, Liz Fernández, and Florencia Boccia.
The film’s visual and sound design play a key role in recreating the period. Art direction by Carlo Spatuzza and Babi Targino, cinematography by Venezuelan-French director Luis Arteaga, and sound work by Fernando Henna and Miguel Martins create an immersive experience. Spanish Goya-winning composer Zeltia Montes crafted the original score, further enhancing the film’s international appeal.
The remarkable achievement of Narciso is rooted in the collaboration between Paraguayan artists and international professionals. By combining local actors, directors, and crew with experienced talent from Europe and South America, the film brings together diverse perspectives and skills.
Read more: Under The Flags, The Sun: Paraguay’s Oscar Hope After Berlin Triumph
