Urban Factory, Fidelio Films Board Psycho-Thriller ‘Los Eastman’
France’s Urban Factory and Mexico’s Fidelio Films Join Colombian Filmmaker Mauricio Leiva-Cock’s Thriller “Los Eastman”
France’s Urban Factory and Mexico’s Fidelio Films have come on board for Colombian filmmaker Mauricio Leiva-Cock’s latest project, the psychological thriller “Los Eastman,” which has been selected for the Fantastic Round Robin at Cannes’ Fantastic Pavilion.
Discovering the project at Colombia’s BAM Producers Meeting, Urban Factory’s Frédéric Corvez and partner Florencia Gil were immediately drawn to its ambition and unique approach. Corvez commented, “It is rare and exciting to read a true page-turner. Mauricio masterfully uses elements of horror to portray and expose toxic class struggle — which, in my view, lies at the very heart of the genre.”
“Los Eastman” is set against the backdrop of a devastating pandemic and follows a housekeeper trapped in servitude by her wealthy employers who ultimately seeks violent revenge. The film explores themes of freedom, privilege, and corruption in a gripping narrative that blurs the lines between social drama, psychological thriller, and horror.
Inspired by a real-life newspaper article discovered during the COVID pandemic, Leiva-Cock and co-writer Diego González Cruz crafted a story that evolves from a social drama into a chilling tale of suspense and social critique, what they refer to as “Social Gore.”
The collaboration between Urban Factory and the Colombian production company Cuatro Ojos signifies a growing interest in elevated Latin American genre cinema that blends political commentary with suspense and violence.
With partners Sebastían Hernández, Juan Manuel Betancourt, and Daniela Echeverri, Leiva-Cock emphasizes the importance of programs like the BAM Producers Meeting in fostering international partnerships and supporting the development of Colombian projects.
Joining the project are David Figueroa Garcia and Mauro Mueller of Fidelio Films in Mexico, leveraging Leiva-Cock’s experience in the region, including his work on acclaimed series like “Falco” and “The Head of Joaquín Murrieta.”
Production team members like editor Sebastían Hernández and VFX supervisor Juan Manuel Betancourt bring a wealth of experience from projects like “One Hundred Years of Solitude” and “Memory,” enhancing the creative vision of “Los Eastman.”
Lead producer Daniela Echeverri, known for her work on award-winning shorts and films, will oversee the production of “Los Eastman,” ensuring a seamless execution of Leiva-Cock’s daring vision.
“Los Eastman” has already garnered recognition at prestigious industry events like Sitges FanPitch and the Sanfic Mórbido Lab, demonstrating its potential to captivate audiences with its innovative storytelling and compelling themes.
The 79th Cannes Film Festival provides a fitting platform for the film’s journey, showcasing the diversity and creativity of the global film industry.
