Acclaimed director Sebastián Lelio premiered his new musical film, *The Wave* (*La Ola*), at the Cannes Film Festival, and it’s already generating significant buzz. The film is a powerful and moving portrayal of the “Feminist May” protests that swept through Chile in 2018, a wave of civil disobedience sparked by widespread harassment and abuse against women. Lelio, known for his female-centric narratives, masterfully captures the energy and emotion of these historic events through the lens of a musical, creating a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience.
*The Wave* follows Daniela López, a young music student who becomes deeply involved in the protests after a personal incident with her voice teacher’s assistant. The film features a talented cast of young Chilean actors, including Paulina Cortés, Lola Bravo, and Avril Aurora, all making their mark on the international stage. Lelio’s decision to use the musical genre isn’t merely stylistic; it serves as a powerful tool to express the complexities and emotions surrounding the protests, a sentiment he shared in a recent interview.
In a conversation with Deadline, Lelio discussed his inspiration, the film’s unique approach to the musical genre, and the broader context of global political activism. He emphasized the iconic nature of the Feminist May protests, describing the images of masked female students marching as incredibly powerful and inspiring. This prompted him to explore the events through the medium of a musical, believing it to be the perfect vehicle to convey sentiments that words alone could not capture. This is a conscious departure from the often nostalgic nature of musicals, aiming for a more self-aware and relevant approach that reflects the current socio-political climate.
Lelio highlighted the film’s unapologetically musical nature, emphasizing the political cacophony depicted through elaborate singing and dancing numbers. He also acknowledged the current global backlash against student activism and protests, suggesting that *The Wave*’s themes resonate deeply with contemporary audiences. While acknowledging the complexities of real-life change, he believes the film offers a valuable portrayal of a pivotal moment in Chilean history. The casting process, involving hundreds of young actresses, also served as a launchpad for a new generation of Chilean talent.
The collaborative spirit extended beyond the cast, with Lelio co-writing the screenplay with three female writers, Manuela Infante, Josefina Fernández, and Paloma Salas, resulting in a nuanced and multifaceted narrative. The film’s score, composed by long-time collaborator Matthew Herbert, incorporates elements from street chants and the work of 17 female songwriters, further emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the project. The choreography, by Ryan Heffington, embraced a raw and authentic style, perfectly complementing the film’s overall aesthetic.
Produced by Juan and Pablo Larraín’s Fabula, with Fremantle and Participant Media, *The Wave* is not just a film; it’s a powerful statement on the ongoing fight for gender equality and the enduring spirit of activism. It’s a testament to Lelio’s directorial vision and his commitment to telling female-focused stories that resonate on a global scale.
