Directors Explore Argentinian Culture in ‘The River Train’ Debut

Directors Lorenzo Ferro and Lucas A. Vignale unveil their debut feature film, The River Train (El Tren Fluvial), at the Berlin International Film Festival on February 16, 2024. This film offers a contemplative glimpse into Argentinian culture through the eyes of a young boy navigating the complexities of family expectations and personal dreams.

The narrative follows nine-year-old Milo, portrayed by non-professional actor Milo Barría, who strives to become a great Malambo dancer while grappling with the pressure of being the ‘perfect’ son. This traditional folk dance, primarily performed by gauchos, is a significant aspect of Argentina’s cultural heritage. Milo dreams of escaping his mundane responsibilities of household chores and nightly practice to explore the vibrant city of Buenos Aires that he has only seen in films.

Creative Collaboration and Cultural Reflection

Ferro and Vignale, who co-wrote and co-directed The River Train, previously collaborated on the short film La Pasión. Their partnership began unexpectedly just before the COVID-19 pandemic when they worked together on a music video. “We became friends on a motorbike, and now we have the same tattoo,” Ferro shared, highlighting their bond. Vignale emphasized their complementary skills, stating, “Lorenzo is the master of text, writing movies and doing the conceptual part, and I really like all the other stuff that is technical.”

The film’s storyline is enriched by real-life elements, including a pivotal scene filmed during a Malambo competition. This unscripted moment arose when the filmmakers learned that Barría would be participating in the event. Ferro recalled, “We had one take, because Milo and his partners went onto the stage one time. That was the competition.” This authenticity adds a layer of depth to the film, which is further enhanced by the inclusion of Barría’s actual family in the cast.

Honoring Argentina’s Cinematic Legacy

The title The River Train pays homage to Argentine cultural legacy, referencing a poem by Francisco Madariaga. The filmmakers discovered a recording of Madariaga reciting his poem on YouTube and decided to incorporate it into the film. “We were considering who could recite that poem, and then we found this recording,” Vignale explained.

The film features a blend of actors and non-professionals, creating a realistic portrayal of life in the Argentine countryside. Ferro highlighted a significant character who connects with Milo in Buenos Aires, noting that the actor had only appeared in one previous film, Chronicle of a Boy Alone, which inspired their project.

As they celebrate their feature film premiere, Ferro and Vignale are already looking ahead. “We are now shooting a short film that is a poem,” Vignale revealed. Ferro added with enthusiasm, “With an iPhone,” showcasing their innovative approach to filmmaking. They plan to continue pursuing individual projects while also reuniting for future collaborations.

The world premiere of The River Train promises to be a captivating exploration of Argentine culture, resonating with audiences through its rich storytelling and authentic representation. The film is produced by Cinco Rayos and is set to make waves in the international film scene.