A Beloved Creature

Rodrigo Sorogoyen, the acclaimed Spanish director, has unveiled Ljubljeno Bitje (translated as The City of Love), his most personal and formally ambitious family drama yet. The film, which has been officially selected for the Cannes Film Festival’s competition lineup, marks a return to form for Sorogoyen, who previously gained international recognition with his emotionally resonant storytelling. Set to premiere on September 24, 2026, the film explores themes of reconciliation, memory, and unresolved tensions within a family. The story follows Esteban Martínez, a renowned filmmaker, as he reunites with his estranged daughter Emilio, an actress whose career has never fully taken off. Their reunion takes place during the production of a new film set in Western Sahara in the 1970s. As they work together on the project, long-buried wounds and unresolved questions about their relationship begin to surface. The narrative intertwines past and present, drawing parallels between the historical backdrop of the film and the emotional landscape of the family. The film stars Javier Bardem and Victoria Luengo in leading roles, with Raúl Arévalo also joining the cast. Bardem, known for his nuanced performances, plays Esteban Martínez, while Luengo portrays Emilio, the conflicted and searching daughter. The collaboration between Bardem and Sorogoyen adds depth to the emotional core of the film, given their history of working together on several critically acclaimed projects. Sorogoyen, alongside his longtime collaborator Isabel Peña, co-wrote the screenplay, ensuring a deeply personal touch to the narrative. The script delves into the complexities of familial bonds and the lingering effects of past decisions. The production team includes Nacho Lavilla and Eduardo Villanueva as producers, with Clara Lago and Javier Bardem serving as executive producers. This ensemble of seasoned professionals underscores the film's ambition and artistic integrity. Set against the rugged landscapes of Fuerteventura, the film’s setting mirrors the internal conflicts of its characters. The island’s harsh beauty becomes a metaphor for the emotional terrain the protagonists navigate. The decision to anchor the story in a specific time and place, Western Sahara in the 1970s, adds historical weight to the narrative, allowing the filmmakers to explore how the past continues to shape the present. The release date of September 24, 2026, aligns with the Cannes Film Festival’s schedule, placing Ljubljeno Bitje among some of the most anticipated films of the year. With its blend of intimate family drama and historical context, the film promises to challenge audiences with its layered storytelling and emotional resonance. As Sorogoyen’s latest work, Ljubljeno Bitje represents both a personal journey and a cinematic exploration of human connection.