Spanish filmmaker Alex de la Iglesia is set to begin production on his upcoming feature, The Misunderstanding, in Chile. Speaking at the Santiago Film Festival, the director expressed enthusiasm for the project, which marks his first time filming in the country. The film is a collaboration between his production company Pokeepsie Films and Chilean studio Rio Estudios.
De la Iglesia noted that the Santiago Film Festival played a pivotal role in bringing the project together. He met Chilean producer Pablo Diaz through Gabriela Sandoval, the head of the festival's industry section, during the event last year. This connection facilitated the development of the film, allowing the team to scout locations and finalize plans for the production.
The plot centers on a misunderstanding between two fictional nations, Lithovenia and Stalovakia, which have been on the verge of conflict for years. Tensions escalate at a United Nations assembly when Field Marshal Stroheim storms out after a respectful comment is misinterpreted as an insult. The film is described as an absurdist comedy that blends farcical humor with the existential weight of war narratives.
Producer Pablo Diaz highlighted the suitability of Chilean landscapes for the film's battle sequences. He stated that the country offers ideal terrain for trenches and barracks. When de la Iglesia visited for a location scout in mid-year, he also identified downtown Santiago as a valuable setting for the story.
The production schedule for the coming four weeks includes filming at several mansions in Santiago, including the former U.S. embassy. The team will also move outside the city to construct battlefield sets with trenches. This logistical plan allows the crew to utilize both urban and rural environments effectively.
Lead actor Benjamin Vicuna, who plays a hapless Minister of Foreign Affairs, described the project as a series of fortunate events. He reflected on the miracle of bringing together the right people and resources to make a film. Vicuna suggested that the project feels destined to happen and that there is a contemporary need to discuss war through the lens of comedy and reflection.
De la Iglesia discussed the thematic core of the film, noting that it reflects a current sense of chaos and absurdity in the world. He questioned the nature of those in power, describing them as potentially mad, incompetent, or monstrous. The director chose to portray these figures as deeply stupid to magnify the consequences of their errors in a high-stakes environment.
The director shared his personal perspective on the changing nature of reality. He explained that as one ages, the world outside can begin to resemble internal thoughts. This leads to questions about whether the world has changed or if it is being perceived through a distorted lens. He views his work as a way to make sense of reality through the creation of a parallel world.
De la Iglesia remarked that reality has now become that parallel world, making his work both a shield and a tool for understanding life's hardships. The cast also includes Maria Barranco, Mona Martinez, Hugo Silva, Fernando Tejero, Oscar Casas, and Miguel Rellan.
The production is backed by Spanish broadcaster RTVE, streamer Movistar+, and Beta Entertainment. The film is expected to resonate with audiences by challenging them to reflect on the current state of global affairs through its satirical narrative.
