Acclaimed Filmmaker Diana Toucedo’s Anticipated Drama "To Live in a Shout" Gains Momentum with Estibaliz Urresola On Board
The film world is buzzing with excitement as Diana Toucedo, a renowned writer, director, and editor, gears up for her latest project, To Live in a Shout. Currently in development, this gripping drama has just welcomed the talented Estibaliz Urresola as a co-writer, significantly enhancing its artistic prospects. The film is set to make waves at the upcoming Malaga Festival’s MAFIZ industry event, where it will be pitched at MAFF, the festival’s co-production and financing platform. This prestigious showcase underscores the project’s potential to captivate audiences and industry professionals alike.
To Live in a Shout delves into the compelling story of Lola, a dedicated U.N. human rights activist whose life takes a dramatic turn when her Syrian friend Fariya vanishes while attempting to enter Europe. Driven by an unrelenting determination to uncover the truth, Lola finds herself risking everything—her career, relationships, and even her personal safety. As she delves deeper into the mystery of Fariya’s disappearance, she is confronted with the harsh realities of the migration system she once fervently believed in. This narrative not only highlights the personal struggles of its protagonist but also sheds light on the broader, often brutal, complexities of global migration.
Diana Toucedo’s impressive body of work underscores her versatility and expertise in the film industry. With over 30 feature films under her belt as an editor, including the critically acclaimed Tobacco Barns and Julia Is, as well as the popular Movistar Plus+ series Hierro, Toucedo has established herself as a master of her craft. Her directorial endeavors have also garnered significant attention, particularly her debut feature Thirty Souls, which premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival in 2018. Her transition into directing has been seamless, reflecting her deep understanding of storytelling and cinematic expression.
Joining Toucedo on this project is the equally accomplished Estibaliz Urresola, whose recent success with 20,000 Species of Bees earned her a Silver Bear at the 2023 Berlin Film Festival. Urresola’s ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate universally, as seen in her award-winning short film Cuerdas, makes her a valuable asset to To Live in a Shout. Her storytelling approach, which grounds global issues within local contexts, adds a layer of authenticity and depth to the film’s themes. Her collaboration with Toucedo promises to bring a fresh perspective to the narrative, blending their unique strengths to create a powerful and thought-provoking film.
Production of To Live in a Shout is set to begin in 2026, with renowned Catalan producer Alba Sotorra at the helm. Sotorra’s extensive experience in co-productions, evident in projects like The Return: Life After Isis and Upon Entry, which have garnered international acclaim, including an Independent Spirit Award nomination, ensures that the film is in capable hands. Her production company, Homemade Films, along with Miramemira, is dedicated to bringing socially relevant stories to the forefront, aligning perfectly with the themes of To Live in a Shout. Sotorra’s involvement not only enhances the project’s credibility but also guarantees a meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality cinema.
The collaboration between Diana Toucedo and Estibaliz Urresola, combined with Alba Sotorra’s production expertise, positions To Live in a Shout as one of the most anticipated Spanish films in the near future. This project not only promises to deliver a gripping drama but also serves as a poignant commentary on the challenges faced by migrants and activists worldwide. As the film progresses towards production, audiences and critics alike are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to experience this compelling narrative on the silver screen. With such a talented team behind it, To Live in a Shout is poised to make a significant impact in the world of cinema.
