Bendita Film Sales Unveils 'Dance of the Living' at San Sebastián World Premiere

A New Film from the Canary Islands Makes Its Mark

Bendita Film Sales, a boutique sales agency known for its work with films such as The August Virgin, Samsara, and Manas, has recently taken on Dance of the Living (La Lucha). This film marks the second feature directed by José Alayón and is set to make its world premiere at San Sebastián’s prestigious New Directors strand. The project is part of the growing Canary Island homegrown film industry, showcasing the talents of the region and gaining attention as an anticipated release.

Written by producer-writer-director Marina Alberti (Aitana) and Samuel M. Delgado, who also directed the Alayón-produced Venice Critics’ Week title They Carry Death, Dance of the Living takes place on the arid desert island of Fuerteventura. The story follows Miguel and his daughter Mariana as they struggle to move forward after the death of their wife and mother, Pilar. Their lives revolve around traditional Canarian wrestling, a cultural practice that plays a central role in the film.

Miguel, however, suffers from a chronic knee injury, while Mariana becomes increasingly frustrated with the world, leading her to break combat rules. As the championship final approaches, father and daughter find themselves on uncertain ground, searching for a way back to each other before it's too late.

Canarian wrestling, according to Alayón, represents one of the last surviving spaces of cultural resistance in the archipelago. He described it as originating from the islands' earliest inhabitants and continuing to endure in the collective imagination. "Every gesture, every movement, every action, repeated for over 500 years like a ritual, carries both ancestral mystery and the defiance of what refuses to disappear," he said. "There's something unique about this practice that goes far beyond sport."

Alayón emphasized that the spirit of the tradition—the quiet pride in holding one's ground and refusing to yield—has become the driving force of his film. He highlighted how the practice reflects a deeper connection to heritage and identity, which resonates throughout the narrative.

Renart, a representative of Bendita Film Sales, praised the film for its subtlety and depth. He noted that it tells the story of a father and daughter who drift apart after a loss and try to reconnect through a tradition that defines and confines them. "It's a film that speaks of pain, pride, and the strange tenderness that sometimes holds families together," he added.

Alayón's direction captures these themes with quiet precision, creating an intimate and restrained yet universally resonant experience. His sensibility blends rare classicism with a singular way of seeing the world. Bendita Film Sales is proud to present his vision to international audiences, beginning with the world premiere in San Sebastián.

The film's visual universe is equally striking, capturing the stark beauty of Fuerteventura. Shot in 16mm, the cinematography ranges from the arid mountains, seemingly plucked from Mars, to the barren scrub desert where Miguel and Mariana live. The film also features scenes of light caught in a shot of house lights in a valley seen from night darkness through dawn.

Dance of the Living is produced by El Viaje Films, based in Tenerife. Founded by Alayón in 2004, the company has a strong track record, including Lav Diaz's 2025 Cannes Première title Magellan, Macu Machín's double Malaga Fest winner The Undergrowth and Matadero, and works from Santiago Fillol, co-writer of Sirât.

Another key player in the production is Blond Indian Films, founded in Colombia by director and sound designer Carlos Esteban García and Danish producer Katrin Pors. The company co-produced the Cannes Directors’ Fortnight standout Birds of Passage.

As the film prepares for its premiere, it stands as a powerful example of the evolving landscape of Canary Island cinema. With its rich storytelling and visually compelling narrative, Dance of the Living promises to captivate audiences and highlight the unique cultural heritage of the region.