Sci-fi maestro Nacho Vigalondo recently chatted about his his latest cinematic venture, Daniela Forever, at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival. The film, a unique blend of sci-fi and romance, explores the complexities of love and loss through Vigalondo’s signature innovative lens.

Nacho Vigalondo’s Daniela Forever premiers at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival

Daniela Forever is a 2024 science-fiction romantic drama film written and directed by Nacho Vigalondo. The story follows Nicolas (Henry Golding), who grieves the loss of his girlfriend, Daniela (Beatrice Grannò), after a fatal accident. In his desperation, he joins a clinical trial for a drug that opens the door to lucid dreaming. There, he reunites with Daniela and rebuilds their life together.

However, as he sinks deeper into the dream world, the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur. Which leads him down a path of emotional and psychological turmoil. The film explores the complexities of grief and the lengths people will go to cope with loss. It delves into the blurred lines between reality and fantasy. Also, this film further questions the consequences of escaping into an idealized world. At its core, Nacho Vigalondo’s Daniela Forever examines the enduring power of love. Furthermore, it explores the profound impact on individuals, even in the face of death.

On the Allure of Sci-Fi

When asked about his enduring fascination with the sci-fi genre, Vigalondo shared the uniqueness of sci-fi as a medium for storytelling. He emphasized the genre’s inherent demand for novelty and innovation, a challenge he readily embraces in his work.

Science fiction pushes you to reach new heights, to explore different places that you haven’t seen previously. I don’t think any other genre works like that.

Daniela Forever delves into the profound experience of grief through a sci-fi narrative. Vigalondo describes it as a film about “the end of romance, the ultimate in love,” where the protagonist attempts to recreate a lost love in an unconventional way. While the film incorporates elements of romance, Vigalondo suggests it might be more accurately described as a movie about “the promise of romance.”

Unexpected Cinematic Elements

Vigalondo hinted at a surprising visual experience for the audience. He revealed that half of the film was shot using vintage cameras, creating a stark contrast with the contemporary footage used for the other half. This juxtaposition of distinct visual styles aims to enhance the film’s narrative and thematic depth.

Daniela Forever promises to be another thought-provoking and visually captivating addition to Nacho Vigalondo’s filmography. The film’s unique blend of sci-fi and romance, coupled with its innovative visual approach, is sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences.

Daniela Forever premiered at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival on September 5th. Check out our list of Sci-Fi and Fantasy movies to watch at TIFF.