Portuguese Public Broadcaster RTP Joins Spanish Series “Millennial Mal”
With a growing focus on Spain as a natural partner, Portuguese public broadcaster RTP has recently announced its involvement in the series “Millennial Mal.” Created by actor, screenwriter, and stand-up comic Lorena Iglesias, the show is co-directed by Andrea Jaurrieta, known for her work on the film “Nina.”
Produced by Oscar winner Tornasol Media, Ukbar Filmes, and Spanish SVOD platform Filmin, with RTP as the anchor broadcaster in Portugal, “Millennial Mal” follows the story of Judith, a 42-year-old librarian who receives a university grant due to a bureaucratic error. To access the grant, she must pass herself off as under 30 and undergo a Gen Z makeover with the help of two younger women. However, Judith starts to believe in her new facade, leading to unexpected consequences.
According to Iglesias, the series explores the question of how women would experience their youth differently in today’s world of social media and changing societal norms. Inspired by women screenwriters such as Tina Fey, Nora Ephron, and Amy Sherman-Palladino, Iglesias aims to blend personal and political themes with humor in “Millennial Mal.”
Starring Iglesias as Judith, the series is a collaborative effort between Tornasol producers Mariela Besuievsky and Gerardo Herrero, Filmin co-founder Jaume Ripoll, and Ukbar Filmes’ producer Pandora da Cunha Telles.
RTP’s involvement in “Millennial Mal” not only enhances the production quality but also strengthens the partnership between Portugal and Spain, says Besuievsky. The series is currently in production in Spain, with filming locations in Navarre and Portugal, and a diverse cast and crew from both countries.
“Millennial Mal” is the first TV show to be developed at Spain’s Film Academy Residence program, showcasing the growing collaboration between the two countries in the television industry.
Aside from “Millennial Mal,” Tornasol Media and Ukbar Filmes have been active in the TV landscape, with successful series like “The Clan Olimpia” and “Turn of the Tide.” Filmin, known for its arthouse content, has also ventured into series production with projects like “Selftape.”
As Portugal and Spain continue to collaborate on various TV productions, the industry looks towards a future of shared creativity and storytelling across borders.
