Berto Romero and Javier Ruiz Caldera discuss their new film ‘5 More Minutes’ at the San Sebastián Festival, highlighting its unique narrative and themes.
The film ‘5 More Minutes’ (‘5 Minutos Más’), a time-warping drama directed by Javier Ruiz Caldera, is set to premiere in the main competition at the San Sebastián Festival. Berto Romero, the film's writer and star, plays alongside Belen Cuesta in a story that explores the complexities of a relationship on the rocks against the backdrop of an impending apocalypse. The announcement comes from Variety, reflecting the film’s unique narrative that draws in audiences seeking innovative storytelling.
In a recent discussion with Variety, Ruiz Caldera expressed his intent to create a film that diverges from his previous works by presenting a fresh challenge. He noted that Romero's script compellingly melds multiple genres, including fantasy, thriller, and comedy, creating a cinematic experience that stands out in contemporary film. The narrative is structured around repetitions of time, focusing specifically on five-minute intervals, making every moment significant for both the characters and the audience.
Berto Romero added that the film's challenge allows viewers to genuinely feel the emotional weight of each passing moment. The characters are embroiled in their struggles, facing not only personal conflicts but also an external existential threat, intensifying the stakes. The depiction of a relationship trying to mend amid chaos could resonate with audiences, highlighting the tension between ordinary life and extraordinary circumstances.
The film is noted for its ambitious technical challenge, requiring that every sequence maintains a five-minute runtime without edits. Ruiz Caldera highlighted the extensive rehearsal process undertaken to achieve this level of precision, ensuring that the performances appear spontaneous within a meticulously choreographed format. This approach aims to immerse the audience in a visceral experience, inviting them to engage deeply with the unfolding drama.
Shot in the picturesque Girona countryside, the film leverages its stunning backdrop to contrast with the darker impulses of the narrative. This location choice plays a vital role, as noted by Ruiz Caldera, who emphasized the juxtaposition of beauty and turmoil as central to the film’s atmosphere.
The production was made possible through partnerships with Movistar Plus, El Terrat, and Ikiru Films, with distribution handled by Filmax. This collaboration instills confidence in the film's potential reach and visibility in the Spanish market, as the producers aim to connect the unique story with a broad audience.
The premiere of '5 More Minutes' at San Sebastián presents a valuable opportunity for both Romero and Ruiz Caldera to showcase their artistic vision and the film's thematic complexity. With a blend of humor, suspense, and existential questions, it could appeal to a diverse audience eager for innovative narratives. As anticipation builds, the reception at the festival may influence further audience engagement and distribution success.
For more entertainment news, see Massih Parsaei’s Debut Film 'Lovers Sleep Alone' Premieres at San Sebastian and Emmys 2026: Inside Star-Studded Parties in Hollywood.
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