Igor Legarreta’s ‘The Blind Ants’ Premieres at San Sebastián
Igor Legarreta’s third feature, ‘The Blind Ants’, debuted at the 74th San Sebastián International Film Festival. Set in 1930‑Biscay, the story follows the Jauregui family’s perilous attempt to salvage coal from a stranded English ship during a violent storm. The film, a Basque‑language production w…
By Felo News Desk · Published
On September 18, director Igor Legarreta’s latest feature, The Blind Ants (Inurri Itsuak), opened at the 74th San Sebastián International Film Festival. The film, which is part of the festival’s Zinemira section dedicated to Basque cinema, is competing for the Irizar Award for Basque Cinema.
Plot and Setting
Set in the Basque Country in 1930, the narrative centers on an English cargo ship that runs aground on the rugged shores of Biscay during a ferocious storm. The vessel carries tons of coal, a precious commodity that could mean survival for the local community during a harsh winter. The Jauregui family, a tight‑knit Basque household from Algorta, decides to risk everything and brave the relentless weather to salvage some of the black gold. Their daring choice leads to tragic outcomes that irrevocably alter the family’s future.
Production and Collaboration
Legarreta, who previously directed the acclaimed films All the Moons and When You Stop Loving Me, founded a production company in the Basque Country with a mission to merge local talent and resources into films that are both artistically ambitious and technically polished. The Blind Ants exemplifies that vision: a Basque‑language story with a universal appeal, backed by high production values. The film is distributed in Spain by Buena Vista International Spain and was produced by a coalition of Basque studios, including Lamia Producciones, Lazona Zinema, Buendía Estudios Bizkaia, Bruja del Norte AIE, and Sideral Cinema, with co‑production from Belgium’s Caviar Antwerp.
Cast and Crew
The ensemble features Urko Olazábal, who earned a Goya Award for Best Supporting Actor for Maixabel, and Itziar Ituño, known for Money Heist and Intimacy. Other notable actors include Josean Bengoetxea, Miren Gaztañaga, and Carlos Santos. The film’s production design, led by Mikel Serrano, was crucial in recreating the storm‑laden coastline, especially during the climactic night on the cliff where a massive set was constructed to ensure safety and control over the elements.
Director’s Perspective
In an interview with Variety, Legarreta explained that adapting Ramiro Pinilla’s novel was both a blessing and a challenge. While the source material provided a solid narrative framework, translating its literary depth into visual storytelling required careful balance to preserve the original’s spirit. Legarreta described the film as a “coastal Western,” a genre blend that highlights the rugged determination of the Jauregui family against nature’s fury.
Legarreta also reflected on his long‑standing collaboration with Itziar Ituño, noting that their shared history from university short films to recent projects has fostered a comfortable and productive working relationship. He praised the rest of the cast for their authentic portrayal of a Basque family, emphasizing the importance of chemistry and genuine familial bonds on screen.
Filming took place entirely in Bizkaia, ensuring the authenticity of the coastal atmosphere. One of the most demanding scenes involved a stormy night on a cliff, where the production team built an extensive set to replicate the harsh conditions while maintaining safety protocols.
Release and Reception
Following its festival premiere, The Blind Ants will be released in Spanish cinemas on October 9. The film’s international sales partner, Playtime, and distributor Buena Vista aim to bring the story to a broad audience, both within Spain and abroad.
Critics and audiences alike have praised the film’s blend of historical context, emotional depth, and visual storytelling. The narrative’s focus on resilience, family, and the harsh realities of life on the Basque coast resonates with viewers, offering a fresh take on period drama and Western tropes.
As the film prepares for its theatrical run, anticipation remains high for its potential to win the Irizar Award and to further cement Legarreta’s reputation as a leading voice in contemporary Basque cinema.
Key facts
- World premiere at 74th San Sebastián International Film Festival
- Set in 1930 Biscay, follows Jauregui family’s perilous rescue mission
- Produced by Basque studios with Belgian co‑production
- Directed by Igor Legarreta, known for previous acclaimed films
- Features a strong ensemble cast including Urko Olazábal and Itziar Ituño
- Filmed entirely in Bizkaia with elaborate storm set
- Set for Spanish release on October 9, competing for Irizar Award
Why it matters
‘The Blind Ants’ showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Basque Country while blending genre elements to appeal to a global audience, highlighting the region’s growing influence in international film.
Frequently asked questions
When will The Blind Ants be released in theaters?
The film will open in Spanish cinemas on October 9.
What genre does the film belong to?
It is described as a coastal Western set in the Basque Country.
Who directed The Blind Ants?
Igor Legarreta, the director of All the Moons and When You Stop Loving Me.
Where was the film shot?
It was filmed entirely in Bizkaia, Basque Country.
Sources
- [1] variety.com — originally reported as “World Premiering at San Sebastián, Igor Legarreta Describes His Third Film ‘The Blind Ants’ as a Coastal Western Set in the Basque Country”
