Java Films Debuts ‘Franco,’ ‘Achille Lauro’ at Rendez-Vous, Le Havre

“Franco: Spain’s Scorned Memory” is a new documentary marking the 50th anniversary of Spanish dictator Francisco Franco’s death, making its market debut at this year’s Unifrance Rendez-Vous in Le Havre. Produced by Paris-based Galaxie Presse, the film delves into the legacy of Spain’s infamous leader and how his memory is fueling the country’s new far-right movement.

Despite laws prohibiting the glorification of the Spanish Civil War and Francoism, Franco’s anthem “Cara al sol” is still heard at rallies organized by Spain’s extreme right-wing Vox party. Vox has embraced Franco’s narrative on Spanish national identity, making the rehabilitation of the dictator a central theme in its electoral campaigns.

Scheduled to air in France in November on Histoire TV, “Franco: Spain’s Scorned Memory” is set to enter the international sales market for the first time at Le Havre. Java Films, the distributor behind the documentary, is also bringing a range of politically-charged films to the market, including “That Friday,” a gripping account of the 2015 Bataclan attacks in Paris.

“That Friday” explores the individuals captured in the first images of the attack, shedding light on their lives a decade later. Commissioned by LCP, the documentary is slated to premiere on Nov. 13 in France and has already been picked up by RTBF, a Belgian broadcaster.

Another addition to Java Films’ lineup is “Achille Lauro,” a film revisiting the 1985 hijacking of the cruise ship Achille Lauro off the coast of Egypt. Directed by Simone Manetti and co-commissioned by Arte and Germany’s WDR, the documentary offers a comprehensive look at the harrowing event and its aftermath.

Additionally, the distributor is showcasing “Zelensky,” a portrait of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky directed by Yves Jeuland. Featuring rare access to the president and those who have known him since childhood, the film has garnered strong interest since its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, securing deals with CNN Portugal, Radio Canada, TVP in Poland, and RTS in Switzerland.

Donatien Pierda, co-director of operations, sales, and acquisitions at Java Films, expressed excitement about participating in the Rendez-Vous, emphasizing the importance of showcasing socially conscious and impactful documentaries to potential buyers. The opportunity for on-site screenings allows for valuable feedback and accelerates the reach and impact of these compelling films.