Igor Legarreta's 'The Blind Ants' Premieres at San Sebastián

Director Igor Legarreta's third feature, 'The Blind Ants,' had its world premiere on September 18 at the 74th San Sebastián International Film Festival. The film is set for a Spanish theatrical release on October 9, distributed by Buena Vista International Spain.

Set in the Basque Country in 1930, the story follows the Jauregui family. An English ship carrying valuable coal is stranded on the Biscay coast during a violent storm. The local people of Algorta scramble to salvage the cargo to survive a harsh winter. The Jaureguis' decision to brave the storm for the 'black gold' leads to tragic, life-altering consequences.

A Coastal Western

Legarreta described the film to Variety as a 'coastal Western.' It is based on the novel by Ramiro Pinilla. The director said adapting the book was a 'long and complex process.' He aimed not to betray the novel's love for American fiction from the first half of the twentieth century. The entire film was shot in Bizkaia, within the Basque Country, to preserve the coastal atmosphere.

'The film aims not to betray that love, and I truly believe that there are not many films with the character and visual strength of "Blind Ants,"' Legarreta said.

Production and Cast

The film is a major Basque period production. It is produced by Lamia Producciones, Lamia Films, Lazona Zinema, and others, with co-production from Belgium's Caviar Antwerp. Producer Luis Ferrón of Lazona Zinema told Variety the goal was to create an artistically ambitious Basque-language film with international appeal. Partnering with Playtime for international sales and Buena Vista for Spanish distribution is intended to reach a wide audience.

The cast features prominent Basque and Spanish actors.

Director's Vision and Challenges

Legarreta was drawn to the emotional connections in Pinilla's novel. He cited life on the Basque coast and a family's struggle to maintain dignity. Assembling the large, familial cast was a key challenge. The director sought actors who could create a real sense of family, a goal he believes was achieved.

He has a long working history with star Itziar Ituño. 'Working with her is always a pleasure,' Legarreta said. He praised her generosity and capacity to connect with real emotions.

The most significant production challenge involved the storm sequences. Half of the novel's action occurs on a cliff during a stormy night. The team built a large set to ensure safety and control over the elements. Legarreta highlighted the production design led by Mikel Serrano as a standout element in overcoming this technical and creative hurdle.

The film is competing for the Irizar Award for Basque Cinema in the San Sebastián festival's Zinemira section.