Filming has just begun on Gaua (meaning Night in Basque), the third feature film by Paul Urkijo Alijo, following his debut Errementari: The Blacksmith and the Devil [+lire aussi :
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critique
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fiche film], a hit on streaming platforms after its theatrical release in 2022, where it nearly reached one million euros in box office takings, with 157,870 viewers (according to ICAA data). The new adventure from the Álava-born filmmaker blends the unsettling mythological world of nocturnal beings with the imagery of rural superstition, creating an epic universe filled with mystery and emotion.

Gaua stars Yune Nogueiras (recently seen in the box-office hit  Undercover [+lire aussi :
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fiche film]), Elena Irureta (acclaimed actress in the series Patria [+lire aussi :
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fiche série], and set to appear at the upcoming Berlinale in Sorda) and Iñake Irastorza (who was recently in the series Cristóbal Balenciaga [+lire aussi :
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fiche série]). The cast is completed by Xabi Jabato, Erika Olaizola, Manex Fuchs and Elena Uriz.  

The film, shot in Basque over seven weeks at various locations throughout the Basque Country, tells the story of Kattalin (played by Yune Nogueiras) who, in the 17th century and in the mountains of this region, at the height of the witch hunts, leaves the farmhouse in the middle of the night to escape from her husband. Lost in the darkness of the forest, she feels a presence following her. Along the way, she encounters three friendly women who, while washing clothes, share scary stories and gossip about the village. To her astonishment, she finds herself becoming a part of these tales.

Paul Urkijo Alijo explains the origin of the project: “Since I was a child, I’ve been fascinated by the stories related to the night that are prevalent in the mythology of our country. Stories that taught young children to be wary of the dangers of the dark, as well as legends about spirits, demons and witches—figures born from the persecutions of the 17th century, which have since evolved into symbols of female empowerment.  This subject has always intrigued me, and with Gaua I aim to bring it to the big screen in a spectacular, disturbing, and epic way. More terrifying, yet beautiful scenes from the nocturnal legends of our oral tradition.”

Gaua is a production by Irusoin, Ikusgarri Films, Vilaüt Films and Gaua AIE, which is supported by EITB, Prime Video, RTVE, ICAA, the Basque Government, Vitoria-Gasteiz City Council and the Provincial Council of Álava. Filmax will manage its international sales and distribution in Spanish cinemas. After its theatrical release, it will be available on Prime Video.