“Morro,” a new directorial effort from Rodrigo García Saiz, has been selected for the New Directors section at the San Sebastián Film Festival. The film tells the story of Mateo, a veterinarian working in rural Mexico who lives with unresolved guilt stemming from the loss of his son. His isolated existence is disrupted when he treats Morro, a dog belonging to a local drug lord, leading to an unexpected emotional connection that gradually restores his sense of purpose.
García Saiz, who previously directed “Lluvia” and now resides in Madrid, described the project as his most personal work to date. The director drew inspiration from a real-world encounter facilitated through a friend, conducting research in conflict zones before collaborating with screenwriter Carlos Armella to develop the narrative. Rather than focusing on explicit violence or drug trafficking activities, the film examines the moral and psychological dimensions of living in areas affected by violence and the role that unconditional companionship can play in healing.
The production faced the challenge of casting an appropriate dog for the lead role. García Saiz ultimately selected an untrained animal that he felt possessed the necessary qualities and authentic appearance. The chosen dog formed a bond with lead actor Gustavo Sánchez Parra, who appeared in “Amores Perros” and the Cannes-winning film “Leap Year.” Parra took the animal home during production.
A distinctive aspect of the production involved the decision to shoot on 35mm film stock, a technical choice the director characterized as a return to fundamentals. Working with the expensive medium required strict focus and discipline on set, with crews prohibited from using cell phones during filming. García Saiz cited support from film stock suppliers including Kodak and PhotoKem in enabling this approach, which he credited with contributing to the film’s distinctive aesthetic quality.
The film is produced by Calouma Films in partnership with Central Films and The 42 Film, with producers including Paola Cortés, Alberto Müffelmann, Julia Cherrier, and Pablo Guerrero. The San Sebastián Film Festival runs through September 26.
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