Showcasing Humans as a Part of the Natural Cycle, Jaione Camborda’s ‘The Rye Horn’ Premieres at Toronto’s Prestigious Platform Program

variety.com:

Callum McLennan Toronto’s Platform is set to be enriched by Jaione Camborda’s poignant second feature “The Rye Horn.” The film, set against the backdrop of 1970s Galicia, unravels the tale of María, a midwife thrust into a life on the run following a devastating incident.

Her path to freedom takes her from Galicia to Portugal, retracing ancient smugglers’ trails. The film, supported by the Galician broadcaster TVG and the region’s Agency of Cultural Industries (Agadic), was brought to life under the banner of Andrea Vázquez’s Miramemira (“Fire Will Come,” “Sica”) and Camborda’s own label, Esnatu Zinema, and Elástica Films, behind “Alcarràs” and “Creature.” Portugal’s Bando à Parte and Belgium’s Bulletproof Cupid co-produce.

Elastica also distributes in Spain. With the film also bound for San Sebastian main competition, for its European premiere, Camborda’s return to her hometown is particularly poignant. “For me, it’s like a gift… I grew up in the Basque Country, and I am from San Sebastian.

Camborda’s vision shines through her representation of the bond between nature and humanity. “I wanted to make a film where nature was the protagonist,” Camborda explained, emphasising her desire to showcase humans as a part of the natural cycle, almost “as an animal.” The casting of the lead role was a crucial element, with Janet Navas, a contemporary dancer, embodying the raw physicality Camborda sought. “For me, what was really important [was] Janet… she moves and carries herself very physically,” Camborda elaborated, highlighting the dancer’s “powerful presence.” Galicia during the 70s was a time fraught with political tension, marking the twilight of Franco’s reign.