Rapidly building a packed sales slate at Berlin, Filmax has pounced on “Leo & Lou,” a feel-good road movie set against the stunning, windswept landscapes of Galicia in northern Spain and produced by Zeta Studios, producer of Netflix hit “Elite.”
Filmax will unveil first-look images at Berlin’s European Film Market.
In the film, Leo, described as a mute young orphan girl with a world of thoughts inside her, and Lou, a jaded, middle-aged nihilist, take a journey together. “As their paths intertwine, an unbreakable bond forms, one built on trust, compassion and adventure,” Filmax said in a statement.
“Lou & Leo” toplines Isak Férriz, key cast in Netflix global hit “Burning Body,” and Julia Sulleiro. Written by Carlos C. Tomé and Carlos Solano, “Leo & Lou” marks Solano’s debut as a feature film director after his Goya-nominated short film “Strangers on the Road.”
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The ensemble also features Manuel Manquiña (“Airbag”), Marta Larralde (“Cocaine Coast”), with special appearances by María Pujalte (“Merlí”) and Maggie Civantos (“Locked Up”).
The film is also produced by Frida Films, in co-production with the U.K.’s Lunatica and Romanian Motion Picture Management and backed by LipSync and Richmond Pictures, RTVE and Galicia’s CRTVG.
Antonio Asensio (“Élite”), Miriam Rodríguez (“From Good to the Hood”), Paloma Molina (“Just One Small Favor”), Luisa Romero (“Out of Sync”), Miranda Ballesteros (“Farming”), and Rodrigo Ruiz-Tarazona (“The Glass House”) serve as producers.
“This is an uplifting tale of family, and like in any family, there’s always room for adventure, comedy, and a strong emotional bond,” said Rodríguez, at Zeta Studios.
“It explores universal themes—like the idea of home, the longing for belonging, the power of friendship, and new definitions of family. The film’s heartfelt charm and sensitivity make it a truly modern story, one we believe will resonate with everyone who experiences it,” she added.
“I have no doubt that with this film, we have a real gem on our hands. “Leo & Lou” feels like the kind of film that people really want to watch during these times we’re living in,” said Ivan Díaz, head of international, Filmax. “It is also a film that’s full of worthy values and sentiments, making it perfect for young and teenage audiences as well. There is, moreover, great potential for an international remake.”