Spain's film & TV giant The Mediapro Studio is teaming up with Catalan pubcaster 3Cat and its online platform to co-produce a new thriller series titled 'El Mal' ('Quiet'). The series is based on a true story about a serial killer who terrorized the streets of locked-down Barcelona in March-April 2020.
The eight-part series, unveiled on April 8 at MipTV, will feature acclaimed actors David Verdaguer and Ángela Cervantes in leading roles. Verdaguer, known for his work in 'Jokes & Cigarettes' and 'Summer 1993,' will star alongside Cervantes, a double Goya nominee for her performances in 'La Maternal' and 'Chavalas.'
'Quiet' is set to debut on 3Cat's platform initially, with The Mediapro Studio Distribution holding the global commercial rights. The series is created and lead written by Lluís Alcarazo, the mind behind Oriol Paulo's crime thriller 'Night and Day' and the documentary feature 'Special Case.'
The storyline follows an investigation to unmask the identity of a serial killer who targets the most vulnerable members of society, specifically the homeless. Against the backdrop of the Covid-19 lockdown in April 2020, the plot unfolds as authorities apprehend a suspect accused of brutally murdering homeless individuals in their sleep on the streets of Barcelona.
With 'Quiet,' Alcarazo explores the theme of silenced voices, drawing parallels between the muted homeless population and the deadly virus spreading silently. Verdaguer and Cervantes portray a team of detectives leading the investigation, navigating personal relationships and the harsh reality faced by those living on the streets.
The series is helmed by executive producers Laura Fernández Espeso, Javier Méndez, Lluís Alcarazo, and Bernat Elías from The Mediapro Studio, with Oriol Sala-Patau and Conxa Orea serving as executive producers for 3Cat. Marta Pahissa, a seasoned director with credits in various acclaimed productions, will direct the series, which is slated to commence filming in Barcelona soon.
Javier Méndez, The Mediapro Studio's head of cinema and co-head of television, expressed excitement about 'Quiet,' noting its homage to classic thriller styles reminiscent of filmmakers like David Fincher and Michael Mann. Drawing inspiration from films such as 'Seven,' 'Zodiac,' and 'Collateral,' the series promises a detailed exploration of crime investigation in the intriguing yet subdued setting of Barcelona.
