Elena López Riera’s evocative documentary “Southern Brides” has claimed the coveted title of Best Short Film at the Queer Palm 2024. Produced by Alina Film, this Swiss-Spanish collaboration offers a poignant exploration of marriage, tradition, and the female experience.
Directed and written by López Riera, “Southern Brides” transports viewers into the lives of middle-aged women as they reflect on their marriages, sexuality, and personal journeys. Through intimate interviews and rich cinematography, the film captures the complexities of love, identity, and societal expectations.
With cinematography by Elena López Riera and Alba Cros, “Southern Brides” paints a vivid portrait of a generation grappling with tradition and change. From stories of premarital customs to reflections on mother-daughter relationships, the documentary offers a nuanced examination of womanhood and resilience.
Produced by Eugénia Mumenthaler and David Epiney, “Southern Brides” celebrates the diversity of human experience and the power of storytelling to provoke thought and inspire change. As the recipient of the Queer Palm for Best Short Film, the documentary reinforces the importance of amplifying marginalized voices and fostering understanding in today’s world.
