“Aida, the Movie,” a spinoff of the popular Spanish TV series “Aida,” is set to make its way across the Atlantic next year, a rare move for a broad Spanish comedy. The film will be released by Wiesner Distribution on Feb. 6 in the U.S., Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and several Central American countries, including Costa Rica, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Panama. Outsider Pictures, led by Paul Hudson, is partnering with Wiesner for the U.S. release.
The movie initially premiered in Spain on Jan. 30 through Sony Pictures Entertainment Iberia. Directed by Paco León, known for his work on films like “Carmina or Blow Up” and “Kiki, Love to Love,” as well as the original “Aida” series, the comedy reunites León with the original cast members from the sitcom. The ensemble includes Carmen Machi, Miren Ibarguren, Mariano Peña, Eduardo Casanova, and many others, along with 96 actors chosen through an open casting call on the film’s Instagram account.
“Aida, the Movie” continues the story of Aída, a single mother struggling to raise her teenage children in the fictional Madrid neighborhood of Esperanza Sur. The TV series, which aired from 2005 to 2014 on Telecinco, garnered a cult following and launched the international careers of its lead actors.
Described as a blend of fiction and meta-cinematic storytelling, the film takes viewers behind the scenes of an episode of the series, blurring the lines between actors and characters both on and off-screen. It delves into themes like the boundaries of humor, the influence of comedians, and the complexities of fame.
Outsider Pictures and Wiesner Distribution have a history of collaborating on U.S. theatrical releases, with upcoming projects including “The Condor’s Daughter” and “Under Therapy.” Cynthia Wiesner, founder and president of Wiesner Distribution, expressed excitement about bringing “Aida, the Movie” to American audiences, highlighting its universal humor and authenticity.
Produced by Globomedia and Telecinco Cinema, with the involvement of Mediaset España and Mediterráneo Mediaset España Group, the film features renowned actors like León and Machi. Both will be present at the movie’s Miami premiere on Feb. 5 next year.
The release of “Aida, the Movie” marks a significant moment for Spanish cinema, as the comedy genre makes its way to international audiences. With its stellar cast, engaging storyline, and meta-narrative approach, the film is poised to capture the hearts of viewers beyond Spain’s borders.
