La Favorita 1922: A Period Drama Captures International Attention
Pre-Sales Success Across Territories
Spanish network Mediaset España has announced significant pre-sales for the upcoming series La Favorita 1922, securing rights in more than 20 territories throughout Europe and the Americas. Notably, the PBS streaming service Walter Presents has acquired the series for audiences in the U.S. and Canada.
This revelation followed closely on the heels of the series’ commercial launch on Telecinco, Mediaset España’s primary channel, slated for March 17. Additionally, La Favorita 1922 is set to make its debut at Series Mania’s Forum, taking place from March 24-27.
International Distribution and Streaming Rights
The international sales division of Mediaset España, Mediterráneo, has successfully secured partnerships with multiple streaming platforms. The series is set to air in Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay through Flow, along with licenses acquired by Proximus in Belgium, Lithuanian National Radio and TV in Lithuania, and platforms in Poland.
Plot Overview and Creative Vision
Set against the backdrop of Madrid in 1922, characterized by its astonishing Belle Epoque architecture, La Favorita 1922 chronicles the journey of Marquise Elena de Valmonte from Seville. Her ambition is to transform a neglected restaurant into the premier dining establishment in the capital.
With an impressive performance from Verónica Sánchez, known for her roles in The Pier and Sky Rojo, this series marks a notable collaboration between Mediaset España and Bambú Producciones, renowned for creating acclaimed Spanish dramas like Grand Hotel and Velvet.
Production Quality and Narrative Style
The production quality of La Favorita 1922 reflects the meticulous standards that Bambú Producciones is known for. The series melds genres, incorporating elements of love, intrigue, humor, and thriller into its narrative, ensuring continuous engagement for viewers.
“Love, intrigue, humor and a touch of thriller come together in a carefully crafted production,” stated Ramón Campos, head of Bambú Producciones, during the series’ initial launch at Mipcom.
First Episode Highlights and Reception
The inaugural episode sets the stage as Elena flees Seville for Madrid, where her quest for independence takes unexpected turns, including a murder and a dramatic kidnapping. Positive reactions have emerged from critics and audiences alike, with El País highlighting how the series revives the essence of Velvet while showcasing exceptional production values.
Medicerráneo CEO Ghislain Barrois elaborated, “It’s superbly produced with incredible sets,” praising the detailed planning and rich designs underlying the production, which spans over 2,000 square meters and features 500 tailored costumes.
Strategic Addition to Catalog
Silvia Cotino, deputy director of sales and business development at Mediterráneo, remarked on the strategic significance of adding La Favorita 1922 to their catalog, noting its unique contribution as a period drama and the production’s high standards. Cotino expressed confidence that the series will enhance Mediterráneo’s international profile.
Rocío Cachero, the international sales manager, acknowledged the unprecedented global interest in the series, expecting it to signify the beginning of a successful international journey.