Laura Carreira, a Portuguese filmmaker, has made headlines by winning the Silver Shell for Best Director at the San Sebastian Film Festival in Spain. Her debut feature film, “On Falling,” shared the honor with Pedro Martín-Calero’s “El Llanto.” This recognition marks a significant milestone in Carreira’s career, showcasing her talent on an international stage.
Overview of “On Falling”
“On Falling” tells the poignant story of Aurora, a young Portuguese woman who emigrates to Scotland. Struggling to make ends meet while working in a warehouse, she faces challenges in both her financial stability and social interactions in a shared house with other immigrants. The film delves into themes of work and precarious living conditions, resonating deeply with audiences.
The San Sebastian Film Festival, renowned for its celebration of cinema, awarded the Golden Shell for Best Film to Spanish director Albert Serra for his documentary “Tardes de Soledad.” This film, which features a unique perspective on bullfighting, also includes Portuguese co-production through Rosa Filmes.
Born in Porto in 1994, Laura Carreira moved to Scotland in 2012 to study film, coinciding with Portugal’s economic crisis. Her previous works include short films like “Red Hill” (2018) and “The Shift” (2020), where she explored themes of poverty and labor rights.