Halley Production Boards Thriller 'Carro Seco' About Barcelona Real Estate Crisis

Halley Production and Javier Polo's 'Carro Seco'

On September 7, 2026, Variety reported that Paris-based Halley Production has officially come on board as the production company for Javier Polo's upcoming thriller, "Carro Seco" (also known as "Carreau"). This project was highlighted at the Iberseries & Platino Industria’s Co-Production and Financing Forum in Madrid. Halley Production is collaborating with Los Hermanos Polo Films, directed by Javier Polo and his brother, Guillermo Polo, alongside Barcelona's Lastcrit.

Setting and Themes of 'Carro Seco'

Set against the backdrop of Barcelona's ongoing housing crisis, "Carro Seco" dives into the controversial world of real estate speculation. The film centers on a serial killer who targets wealthy and unscrupulous real estate speculators using an unconventional weapon: heavy metal pétanque balls. The narrative juxtaposes a vigilante's violent actions against a deepening social issue, raising questions about morality in the face of gentrification and displacement.

The film portrays a character styled like a traditional pétanque player, described as a modern-day Robin Hood by executing those who profit from the suffering caused by housing crises. This unique angle not only offers thrilling entertainment but also turns the lens on critical social injustices that confront many urban landscapes today.

Production Collaboration and Vision

Halley Production's involvement is designed to leverage its extensive experience with international co-productions, particularly between France and Spain. Andrea Marcelli, a partner at Halley Production, emphasized the natural synergy in creating the film due to the cultural significance of pétanque in both nations. He articulated the film's ambition to depict Barcelona's transformation through gentrification, resonating with similar issues faced in Paris and other European cities.

Producers involved in the film include Victoria Pérez de la Cruz from Los Hermanos Polo Films, Javier Polo, Guillermo Polo, Víctor Cuadros, and Guillem Moreno. The screenplay is co-written by María Mínguez and Merli Marlowe, each bringing their storytelling talents from prior successful projects.

Halley Production Boards Thriller Carro Seco: Cast and Current Development Status

As of the latest announcements, the cast for "Carro Seco" has not yet been disclosed. The filmmakers are leveraging their presence at Iberseries & Platino Industria to seek further partnerships for international distribution. Production for the film is targeted for 2027, emphasizing the filmmakers' intent on delivering a thought-provoking and visually unique film.

In highlighting the film's moral complexities, Javier Polo stated, "Carro Seco uses the tension of a psychological thriller to address one of today's most urgent social conflicts: silent evictions and real estate speculation." This suggests the filmmakers are aiming for a project that is not only engaging but also sparks dialogue on pressing societal issues.

What happens next

The involvement of Halley Production marks a significant step in bringing "Carro Seco" to fruition, especially with its focus on the ramifications of real estate practices in Barcelona. With production slated for 2027, the upcoming months will be crucial for solidifying the cast and expanding the film's promotional efforts ahead of filming. The industry's current appetite for socially conscious narratives may also boost interest in the film, as audiences increasingly seek entertainment that reflects relevant cultural and societal themes.

For more updates, you can read about other projects at the Iberseries and their importance in connecting creators across borders, including Arte France’s ‘Tax Me (If You Can)’ Secures Global Distribution Deals and Lav Diaz's 'An Entry Into the Sadness of a Portuguese Woman' in Post-Production.