The Wave (La Ola) is a musical film by Oscar-winning filmmaker Sebastián Lelio, inspired by the wave of feminist civil disobedience that swept Chile in the spring of 2018. This movement, known as the “Feminist May”, was a turning point for Chilean consciousness around women’s rights and reverberated across the world. The movie’s original musical compositions have been collaboratively created by 17 female Chilean musicians, bringing a unique and authentic voice to the film.
The choreography for The Wave is led by award-winning Ryan Heffington, known for his work with recording artists like Sia and Florence and the Machine. Together with the film’s award-winning composer Matthew Herbert, the team aims to use the power of dance and music to explore themes of change, resistance, and empowerment. Director Sebastián Lelio expressed his fascination with using the musical genre to depict the inspiring young feminist movement in Chile and the political potential of individual and collective voices.
Newcomer Daniela López stars as a music student who becomes involved in the growing feminist movement on her university campus. Through the excitement of protest marches, she confronts her own experiences of mistreatment and finds the courage to share her story. As she becomes a central figure in the movement, she is forced to navigate her identity as a survivor in a society resistant to change. The cast includes other newcomers such as Avril Aurora, Lola Bravo, and Paulina Cortés, adding fresh talent to the film.
The Wave is produced by a talented team under the Fabula banner, with co-financiers Participant and Fremantle. The producers aim to share narratives that resonate with audiences, particularly highlighting the journey of Latin American feminists who have challenged paradigms and secured rights through activism. The screenplay, written by Sebastián Lelio, Manuela Infante, Josefina Fernández, and Paloma Salas, draws from real experiences of women during the 2018 protests, capturing the essence of what comes after a feminist uprising.
Manuela Infante, one of the writers, brings a personal connection to the narrative as she was present during the 2018 protests. Infante stood close to the female students who took a stand, and their experiences became a foundation for The Wave. The film delves into the aftermath of the feminist movement, addressing the complexities of change and resistance in a society striving for progress.
The Wave is not just a musical film; it is a powerful portrayal of resilience, empowerment, and the impact of collective action. Through the creative vision of Sebastián Lelio and the collaborative efforts of a diverse team, this movie aims to inspire and provoke thought on the continuing journey towards gender equality and social change. It stands as a tribute to the brave individuals who have raised their voices for a better world, and a reminder of the ongoing work needed to create a more inclusive and equitable society.
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