‘Alba’ Helmer Ana Cristina Barragán Debuts ‘The Ivy’ at Venice Horizon
Ana Cristina Barragán’s latest film, “The Ivy” (“Hiedra”), is set to make its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival on September 3rd as part of the Horizons sidebar. This marks her third feature following the success of her previous films, “Alba” and “Octopus Skin,” each of which delves into themes of family and adolescence, with a focus on characters who feel disconnected from the world around them.
In “The Ivy,” we follow the story of Azucena, a 30-year-old woman, and Julio, a teenager living in a foster home. The two characters come from vastly different backgrounds but find themselves drawn to each other in ways they don’t fully understand. Their interactions lead to a unique bond that challenges both of them to confront their past and their own vulnerabilities.
Barragán explains that with “The Ivy,” she is exploring the concept of childhood wounds and how they manifest physically in the body. She is particularly interested in themes of abandonment and post-traumatic stress, and how these experiences leave a lasting impact on individuals. The title of the film, inspired by the ivy plant, symbolizes the resilience and beauty that can emerge from difficult circumstances.
The cast of “The Ivy” is predominantly made up of non-professional actors, with the exception of Simone Bucio, who plays Azucena. Francis Eddú Llumiquinga delivers a powerful performance as Julio, bringing a depth and authenticity to his character.
Barragán’s fascination with childhood and adolescence stems from the belief that the wounds we carry from those formative years stay with us for life. Working with adolescent actors adds a raw and hypnotic quality to the film, enhancing the emotional depth of the story.
The production of “The Ivy” was a collaborative effort between companies from Ecuador, Mexico, France, and Spain. Despite initial setbacks with casting, the film was able to come together with the support of executive producer Karla Souza and the dedication of the cast and crew.
Following its premiere at Venice, “The Ivy” will be showcased at the San Sebastian Film Festival, where Barragán developed the script for the film. The drama has already received recognition, winning prizes at Cinélatino Toulouse Films in Progress 2025.
Overall, “The Ivy” promises to be a poignant and visually striking exploration of trauma, resilience, and the enduring power of human connection. With its unique storytelling and captivating performances, the film is sure to leave a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.
