Table of Contents
‘Sundays’ (‘Los Domingos’), directed by Alauda Ruiz de Azua, has achieved notable international sales following its success at the San Sebastián Film Festival, where it won the Golden Shell for Best Film. Le Pacte, based in Paris, has negotiated distribution rights in key markets including Germany, Italy, Nordic countries, Mexico, and Australia. This strategic rollout reflects the growing demand for engaging narratives from emerging filmmakers recognized on the festival circuit.
The film also received awards for Best Film and Best Actress for Patricia López Arnaiz at the Forqué Awards, reinforcing its frontrunner status for the upcoming Goya Awards in Spain. ‘Sundays’ has emerged as one of the top ten Spanish films according to Film Affinity España, indicative of the increasing appreciation for innovative storytelling within Spanish cinema.
Key international distribution deals
Following its initial success, Le Pacte has announced several significant international agreements for ‘Sundays.’ MFA+ FilmDistribution has acquired rights for Germany and Austria, while Movies Inspired has secured distribution for Italy. Angel Films will handle the film’s release in the Nordic regions, and Palace Films has acquired rights for Australia and New Zealand. This extensive distribution strategy underscores the film’s universal themes and potential appeal to diverse audiences.
The film’s reach within Europe has also expanded, with deals established with various distributors across Benelux (Cherry Pickers), Greece (Weird Wave), Poland (Rafael Films), Switzerland (Agora Films), Romania (Independenta), Portugal (Leopardo Filmes), and Croatia (Kino Mediteran). This robust sales trajectory positions ‘Sundays’ favorably for future international opportunities.
HBO partnerships enhance visibility
In a significant development, Le Pacte has partnered with HBO for the first pay TV and SVOD window in Latin America and Europe. This collaboration will enhance the film’s visibility and facilitate a theatrical release in Latin America, with specific agreements in Mexico through Cine Video y TV and in Colombia via Babilla Cine.
Le Pacte is also managing the film’s release in France, scheduled for February 11, 2026. Ongoing discussions for additional territories indicate that the film’s international presence is likely to expand, increasing its potential audience reach.
Exploring the narrative of ‘Sundays’
‘Sundays’ tells the poignant story of Ainara, a 17-year-old student at a religious school in northern Spain. The film begins with Ainara asking her aunt Maite to persuade her father Iñaki to allow her to attend a retreat organized by local nuns. The narrative explores Ainara’s internal struggles and her quest for spiritual guidance, complicated by her family dynamics.
Ainara’s journey is further affected by the emotional fallout from her mother’s death and her father’s challenges in maintaining his restaurant. Guided by a charismatic young priest, Ainara navigates her connection to God, whom she believes communicates with her. The film centralizes the question of whether Ainara’s longing for maternal warmth and spiritual fulfillment is rooted in her unresolved grief.
Family dynamics and psychological exploration
The film transcends a simple coming-of-age narrative; it offers a deep exploration of familial tensions and the lack of empathy within the family unit. Ainara’s father, Iñaki, and her aunt, Pilar, often interpret her aspirations through a self-centered lens, failing to acknowledge her unique perspective. Only Ainara’s grandmother and Maite’s husband provide the understanding she seeks, recognizing that Ainara’s desires may not align with their expectations.
The cast features newcomer Blanca Soroa in the lead role, whose performance as Ainara has garnered critical acclaim, positioning her as a strong contender for upcoming Spanish awards. The film also includes notable actors such as López Arnaiz, Miguel Garcés, Juan Minujín, and Mabel Rivera, each contributing to the film’s rich tapestry of performances.
Production insights and future prospects
The film also received awards for Best Film and Best Actress for Patricia López Arnaiz at the Forqué Awards, reinforcing its frontrunner status for the upcoming Goya Awards in Spain. ‘Sundays’ has emerged as one of the top ten Spanish films according to Film Affinity España, indicative of the increasing appreciation for innovative storytelling within Spanish cinema.0
The film also received awards for Best Film and Best Actress for Patricia López Arnaiz at the Forqué Awards, reinforcing its frontrunner status for the upcoming Goya Awards in Spain. ‘Sundays’ has emerged as one of the top ten Spanish films according to Film Affinity España, indicative of the increasing appreciation for innovative storytelling within Spanish cinema.1