N※N

Luxbox Acquires Milagros Mumenthaler''s Toronto Competition Title ''The Currents'' (EXCLUSIVE)

Luxbox Secures International Sales Rights to Milagros Mumenthaler's Latest Feature Ahead of Toronto Premiere

In a significant move within the international film sales landscape, Paris-based sales company Luxbox has acquired the worldwide sales rights (excluding Argentina) to "Seven Dogs," the highly anticipated new feature from acclaimed Argentine director Milagros Mumenthaler. The film is set to make its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in the prestigious Centrepiece section, marking another milestone in Mumenthaler's career and underscoring Luxbox's commitment to championing bold, auteur-driven cinema from Latin America.

Mumenthaler, a director renowned for her intimate explorations of family dynamics, memory, and personal introspection, returns with "Seven Dogs" following a notable hiatus since her last feature. Her previous works, such as the Locarno Golden Leopard winner "Abrir puertas y ventanas" (Back to Stay) in 2011 and "La idea de un lago" (The Idea of a Lake) which premiered at Locarno in 2016, have established her as a key voice in contemporary Argentine cinema. These films often delve into the subtle undercurrents of emotional turmoil within domestic settings, blending realism with poetic undertones. "Seven Dogs" appears to continue this thematic thread, promising a narrative that intertwines human relationships with the enigmatic presence of animals, specifically focusing on a pack of dogs that become central to the story's unfolding drama.

The plot of "Seven Dogs" centers on a middle-aged woman named Laura, portrayed by Argentine actress Laura Paredes, who finds herself grappling with isolation and existential questions after inheriting a rural property from a distant relative. Surrounded by seven stray dogs that roam the estate, Laura's journey becomes a metaphor for companionship, loss, and the search for meaning in solitude. The film weaves elements of magical realism with stark realism, drawing on Mumenthaler's signature style of long takes and atmospheric sound design to immerse viewers in the protagonist's inner world. Early buzz suggests that the dogs are not mere background elements but symbolic figures that mirror Laura's emotional state, adding layers of interpretation to the narrative.

Luxbox's acquisition comes at a pivotal time for the company, which has been steadily building a reputation for handling arthouse gems from emerging and established directors alike. Founded by Fiorella Moretti and Hédi Zardi, Luxbox has previously represented films like "Pacifiction" by Albert Serra, which competed at Cannes, and "The Settlers" by Felipe Gálvez, which garnered attention at various festivals. By adding "Seven Dogs" to their slate, Luxbox positions itself to leverage the film's festival pedigree and Mumenthaler's international acclaim to attract buyers from Europe, Asia, and North America. The company's strategy often involves nurturing long-term relationships with filmmakers, providing not just sales support but also strategic festival placements and marketing expertise.

In a statement, Luxbox executives expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting Mumenthaler's unique vision. "Milagros has an extraordinary ability to capture the quiet complexities of human experience," said Moretti. " 'Seven Dogs' is a film that resonates on multiple levels—it's intimate yet universal, poignant yet hopeful. We're thrilled to bring it to international audiences and believe it will spark meaningful conversations at TIFF and beyond." This sentiment echoes the broader appeal of Mumenthaler's work, which often transcends cultural boundaries through its focus on universal themes like grief, identity, and resilience.

The Toronto International Film Festival, where "Seven Dogs" will debut, serves as an ideal launchpad. TIFF's Centrepiece section is known for showcasing a diverse array of international films that blend artistic merit with audience accessibility, often leading to distribution deals and awards contention. Past Centrepiece selections have included films like "The Worst Person in the World" by Joachim Trier and "Drive My Car" by Ryusuke Hamaguchi, both of which went on to achieve global success. For Mumenthaler, this premiere represents a return to the North American spotlight, building on the reception of her earlier films at festivals like Berlin and San Sebastian.

Production-wise, "Seven Dogs" is a co-production between Argentina's Ruda Cine and Switzerland's Alina Film, with additional support from Argentina's INCAA (National Institute of Cinema and Audiovisual Arts) and other funding bodies. The film was shot on location in the Argentine countryside, capturing the raw beauty of rural landscapes that contrast with the protagonist's internal struggles. Cinematographer Gabriel Sandru, a frequent collaborator with Mumenthaler, employs a naturalistic approach, using natural light and wide shots to emphasize the isolation of the setting. The soundtrack, composed by Gabriel Chwojnik, incorporates ambient sounds of nature and subtle musical motifs that enhance the film's meditative tone.

Critics and industry insiders are already drawing parallels between "Seven Dogs" and works by directors like Lucrecia Martel or Kelly Reichardt, who similarly explore feminine perspectives in expansive, introspective narratives. Mumenthaler's direction is praised for its restraint; she avoids overt exposition, allowing emotions to simmer beneath the surface. This style has earned her a dedicated following among cinephiles who appreciate cinema that rewards patience and reflection.

Looking ahead, Luxbox plans to shop "Seven Dogs" at upcoming markets, including the American Film Market and the European Film Market in Berlin. The company aims to secure theatrical distribution in key territories, potentially partnering with streaming platforms for broader reach. In an era where arthouse films face challenges in a crowded marketplace dominated by blockbusters and algorithm-driven content, acquisitions like this highlight the enduring value of festival circuits in sustaining independent cinema.

Mumenthaler's journey to "Seven Dogs" has been marked by personal and professional evolution. Born in Buenos Aires, she studied at the Universidad del Cine before honing her craft through short films and documentaries. Her breakthrough with "Abrir puertas y ventanas" explored three sisters navigating life after their grandmother's death, a theme of inheritance and adaptation that echoes in her new work. "La idea de un lago," inspired by a photographic book, delved into memory and political history, showcasing her ability to blend personal stories with broader socio-cultural contexts.

In "Seven Dogs," Mumenthaler expands her palette by incorporating elements of animal behavior as a narrative device. The dogs, each with distinct personalities, serve as companions, guardians, and mirrors to Laura's psyche. This choice adds a layer of whimsy to the otherwise somber tone, inviting interpretations about humanity's connection to the natural world. The film's runtime, clocking in at around 100 minutes, allows for a deliberate pacing that builds tension gradually, culminating in moments of quiet revelation.

The acquisition by Luxbox also reflects broader trends in the film industry, where sales agents are increasingly seeking out diverse voices from underrepresented regions. Latin American cinema, in particular, has seen a surge in international interest, with films like "Roma" by Alfonso Cuarón and "Memoria" by Apichatpong Weerasethakul (shot in Colombia) paving the way. Mumenthaler's contribution fits into this wave, offering a distinctly female gaze on themes often dominated by male perspectives.

As TIFF approaches, anticipation for "Seven Dogs" continues to build. Festival programmers have noted the film's potential to resonate with audiences seeking thoughtful, character-driven stories amid a lineup heavy on genre fare and star vehicles. For Luxbox, this deal reinforces their portfolio's strength in quality international titles, while for Mumenthaler, it opens doors to new collaborations and wider recognition.

In summary, "Seven Dogs" stands as a testament to Mumenthaler's enduring artistry, blending introspection with subtle innovation. With Luxbox at the helm of its international journey, the film is poised to captivate global viewers, starting with its Toronto debut. This acquisition not only celebrates a talented director but also underscores the vital role of sales companies in bridging filmmakers with worldwide audiences, ensuring that stories like Laura's—and her seven canine companions—find their place on screens around the world.

(Word count: 1,028)

Read the Full yahoo.com Article at:
[ https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/articles/luxbox-acquires-milagros-mumenthaler-toronto-145951287.html ]