After years of anticipation and a pause enforced by the pandemic, the production of Mandylion, driven by La Plomada Producciones and Fonofox, will continue until April 30. Filming will take place in various locations across the province, including the capital Jaén, Castillo de Locubín, Valdepeñas de Jaén, and Torredonjimeno.
The film's plot revolves around the investigation into the theft of the Holy Face from the Jaén Cathedral, an event that triggers a series of crimes and pursuits. This project marks director Luisje Moyano's fifth feature film and features a cast led by Pablo Castañón, alongside actors such as Cuca Escribano, Cristina Mediero, José Varela, Manuel Salas, Sol Navajo, and Agnés Kiraly.
“"We will be fortunate to see the filming in our streets, which will be an added attraction. Its success will be ours because it will allow us to highlight all the heritage of the city and the province."
During the film's presentation, Jaén's mayor, Julio Millán, highlighted the positive impact of the filming on the province, emphasizing its potential as a tourist and heritage showcase. Similarly, the Deputy for Culture and Sports, África Colomo, praised Moyano's career and the project's deep roots in the region, noting how Jaén's natural and historical settings are integrated into the narrative.
“"It is a very beautiful and very special day, because the project that was about to start in 2020 was paralyzed and now it gains strength and momentum. The city of Jaén is perhaps the protagonist of this story. We are going to bring out all its light and all its virtues."
Director Luisje Moyano expressed his excitement about the start of filming, emphasizing the strong emotional component of shooting in his homeland. For his part, Raúl Cueto, the novel's author, described the film adaptation as a dream come true, hoping the movie will not only live up to the book but surpass it. Actress Cristina Mediero also highlighted the local nature of the project and the support for cinema in the province.
The synopsis of Mandylion follows Mario Sonseca, a police officer from northern Spain stationed in Jaén, who becomes embroiled in a complex investigation after a student is hit by a car. What initially appears to be an accident escalates into a series of criminal events, including a desecration at the old cemetery and the theft of the Holy Face, all framed within an initiatory journey for the protagonist.
