Pacifica Grey Lands Distribution Rights to Award-Winning ‘The Blue Trail‘

San José, Costa Rica – In a significant move for independant cinema, Pacifica Grey, a leading Costa Rican distributor and producer, has secured the distribution rights to Gabriel Mascaro’s acclaimed film, “The Blue Trail.” The film, celebrated at both the Berlin and Guadalajara film festivals, is poised for a Central American release on November 13.

Central American Film Distribution: Pacifica Grey’s Strategic Acquisition

Marcelo Quesada and Karina Avellán, who head Pacifica Grey, are strategically focusing on expanding their Ibero-American film offerings.

“While our editorial line is focused on bringing diverse cinema from all over the world, this year we set out to bring more Ibero-American films to theaters across the region,” Quesada stated. “That’s why ‘The Blue Trail’ (Brazil) joins ‘Querido trópico’ (Panama) and [Jonas Trueba’s] ‘The Other Way Around’ (Spain) as part of our 2025 releases, currently representing 50% of our lineup.”

This acquisition underscores Pacifica Grey’s commitment to distributing thought-provoking and diverse cinematic works across Central America.

Pacifica Grey: Beyond Distribution – production and Film Industry Engagement

Pacifica Grey’s influence extends beyond distribution. In April, they released the Oscar-nominated “The Seed of the Sacred Fig.” Their diverse slate also includes Andrea Arnold’s “Bird,” starring Barry Keoghan. On the production front,they’ve boarded Alexandra Latishev’s “Sirens,” a participant in the Tres Puertos Costa Rica lab. They have a track record of producing acclaimed dramas such as “Clara Sola” in 2021.

The company also actively supports film industry development. Pacifica Grey organized Locarno’s 3rd Costa Rica Industry Academy training program from June 23-26.

Quesada noted, “The Academy was a grate success.The participants were highly engaged, and the tutors were incredibly generous with their insights,” emphasizing its role in connecting different generations within the film community.

“The Blue Trail”: A Dystopian Fable Resonating with Global Audiences

“The blue Trail,” lauded as “the greatest South American houseboat movie since ‘Fitzcarraldo,'” presents a dystopian narrative set in Brazil. The film follows Tereza, a 77-year-old woman navigating a society that marginalizes citizens over 75, viewing them as economic burdens.

Quesada elaborated on the film’s appeal: “Mascaro creates a playful and joyful universe within a serious and politically charged context…It’s a film as deep in its themes as it is unique in its formal universe.”

Costa Rica Media Market: Showcasing Regional Cinema

Karina Avellán recently participated in the Costa rica Media Market (CRMM) panel on independent cinema, alongside Lynette Coll and Miguel Gomez, highlighting the growing prominence of Central American films on the international stage.

Avellán noted the significant progress in the region’s film industry, stating, “[In the early 2000s] we were starting to develop our stories and, suddenly in 2019, we had a film from Central America in Berlin and one in Cannes, and every year since we have had at least one Central American film in a major international showcase.”

Did You Know? The Costa Rica Film Festival, where “The Blue Trail” premiered locally, is a key event for showcasing Central American cinema. The 14th edition will take place in june 2026.

Key Facts: Pacifica Grey and “The Blue Trail”