“The cinematic debut of Venezuelan director Diego Vicentini, titled “Simón,” takes us on an emotional and political journey through the life of a student leader facing the brutality of an oppressive regime. After enduring detention and torture, he seeks political asylum in Miami.
The pillars of this poignant film are the key producers of the project: Jorge Antonio González, Marcel Rasquin, and Diego Vicentini himself. Vicentini, in addition to directing, is the writer. (Obtained from www.simonmovie.com)
The promotional tour of “Simón” has aimed to make the world aware of the existence of this harsh and sad reality. It began in Miami and continued in Madrid, where the premiere drew in over 1,090 people, marking a milestone as the Venezuelan film with the highest attendance in the history of Spain.
“Simón” tackles a critical political and social reality based on the events of 2017. Surprisingly, the regime authorized its exhibition in Venezuela, albeit with a warning in the authorization certificate suggesting that the film “might violate the law against hate.”
The film’s festival journey commenced with its debut at the Florida Film Festival and the Dallas International Film Festival, where it was acclaimed by the audience as the best international film. However, its peak recognition came at the Venezuelan Film Festival in Mérida, where it received multiple accolades, including Best Film, among others. Additionally, it was chosen to represent Venezuela at the renowned Goya Awards and the New York Latino Film Festival.
A few days before the premiere in Venezuela (September 7), news broke that stirred controversy: a lawyer seemingly affiliated with the Chavista movement had filed a complaint with the prosecutor’s office against “Simón,” alleging that the film promoted terrorism and violence. However, this news did not translate into an official complaint lodged with the filmmakers.
Just a few days before the premiere in Venezuela, set for September 7, news broke that caused a stir: a lawyer apparently identified with the Chavista movement had filed a complaint with the prosecutor’s office against “Simón,” alleging that the film promoted terrorism and violence. However, this news did not result in an official complaint being delivered to the filmmakers. Despite this episode, the film was released as planned, achieving resounding success with over 27,000 people viewing it. This achievement positions it as the most-watched Venezuelan film in the year 2023.
On October 22, a global digital premiere is scheduled, offering the opportunity for anyone worldwide to rent the movie through www.simonmovie.com. This opportunity will be available for one week.
By: Paula Vanegas
