A Majorcan producer and screenwriter joked with director Albert Pinto and lead Anna Castillo that this film would change lives. The remark proved prophetic. Within three days of its premiere, Netflix viewership surpassed 24 million, and the drama led global rankings across platforms.
Since then, the film has become the most-watched international feature of the year, topping charts in 61 countries and remaining in the top 10 in 93. Those impressive figures reflect the collaboration of two Majorcans, Ernest Riera and Miguel Ruz, whose long-standing work in the audiovisual sector has been built through diverse partnerships.
The project emerged from an idea kept in a drawer: a sketch that evolved into a complete script. The thought began with a premise from Indiana List, which the writers initially found difficult to advance. The outline was handed to Ruz, who saw potential and brought it to Ernest Riera, the executive producer, who helped shape the film alongside Jordi Roca of Rock & Ruz.
As Riera explains, a story needed more than mere survival to connect with audiences. The team pushed for heightened emotion and drama, trusting that a powerful central arc would draw viewers in. Beyond genre, the core aim was to spark interest and emotional engagement, transforming the project into a gripping emotional drama.
Ruz pursued a global platform with resolve. Netflix showed interest after talks with the production team linked to the film Enforcer, released by Mario Casas. A major studio connected with Warner Bros. looked to finance the project, yet Netflix ultimately backed the Spanish film, achieving success beyond expectations without a traditional promotional push.
diverse audiences
The release date was September 29, and word of mouth carried the film forward. Riera notes that different audience segments connected with the movie for varied reasons, helping sustain momentum. The director and lead actor earned praise for their performances. Although neither Ruz nor Riera had collaborated with Pinto before, they recognized his work in Malasaña 32 and chose him for the project.
The production is described as an emotionally charged survival story, anchored by strong performances. The direction, along with the prequel and related projects, contributed to a broader narrative arc that resonated with viewers across regions.
“Female Tom Hanks”
For Anna Castillo, the lead role marked a personal and professional breakthrough. Ruz described the actor as a cinematic presence reminiscent of iconic Hollywood performances from the 1980s, citing films like Cast Away and Captain Phillips. Riera also points to Everest as an influence, noting that the film centers a robust emotional core. The central character’s strength, even in moments of vulnerability, creates a compelling contrast that anchors the drama.
The Majorcan team emphasizes their ambition to contribute to global cinema regardless of language. Rock & Ruz aims to broaden the Spanish film industry on the international stage, a goal aligned with Netflix’s decision to shoot on location in Spain. The team has studied and worked in the United Kingdom and the United States, with Riera guiding the script, drawing on experience from projects such as 47 Meters Down and other acclaimed productions.
The director Pinto steered the narrative from a dystopian frame toward a more intimate human story. The setting places Mia and Nico in a totalitarian environment where they must leave their lives behind to seek refuge in a sea container. The dystopian backdrop was chosen to deepen viewer identification with the protagonists. The social undertone mirrors current global concerns, yet the aim remains universal, focusing on character and connection rather than spectacle alone. Researchers note that the film’s accessibility across cultures and languages is a core strength, delivering a universal message that resonates with audiences worldwide.