Colombian Film La Suprema Set to Compete at Oscars and Goya Awards
Colombia’s film industry is celebrating a monumental achievement, as La Suprema, a movie inspired by the life of boxing legend Antonio Cervantes “Kid Pambelé,” has been selected as the country’s representative for the prestigious 2025 Oscars and Goya Awards. Directed by Felipe Holguín Cano, the film has garnered attention on the global stage, having shone at various international festivals including Toronto, Havana, and Rio de Janeiro.
Inspired by true events, La Suprema tells the story of Laureana, a young Afro-Colombian girl who dreams of becoming a boxer. Set in a rural town lacking basic necessities like electricity and televisions, Laureana and her community face a significant challenge: how to watch her uncle, a world championship contender, fight in a live televised match. The film explores themes of perseverance, hope, and collective struggle, presenting a poignant narrative that resonates with audiences around the world.
The film’s journey to international acclaim began in the small Colombian village of La Suprema, located in María la Baja, Bolívar. Not only does the movie delve into the life and struggles of Laureana, but it also celebrates Colombia’s rich cultural heritage. Music plays a significant role in the film, with renowned bullerengue singer Pabla Flórez González not only contributing to the soundtrack but also playing the role of Laureana’s grandmother. This fusion of traditional music with modern cinematic storytelling enriches the overall experience for viewers, offering a window into life in rural Colombia.
The film’s success can be attributed to its strong narrative, culturally rooted elements, and its ability to tackle profound social issues. The project had a budget of $1.3 billion Colombian pesos and was shot over 18 days with a crew of 150 people. La Suprema has already won several awards at international film festivals, including the Best Feature Film at the Ibero-American Film Festival in Huelva, Spain, and the Audience Award at the Cartagena International Film Festival.
The recognition La Suprema has received is a point of pride for Colombia, and the film’s nomination for both the Oscars and Goya Awards speaks volumes about the quality of work being produced in the country’s film industry. Reactions to the announcement of the film’s nominations were overwhelmingly positive. The Cartagena Institute of Cultural Heritage expressed its admiration on social media, saying: “We celebrate with immense pride that La Suprema has been selected to represent Colombia at the Oscars and Goya Awards.
The film not only highlights the story of one young girl but also reflects the broader struggle of marginalized communities in Colombia. Director Felipe Holguín Cano described the film as a “testament to the resilience of small villages that often go unnoticed but remain hopeful amid adversity.”
With the Oscars ceremony set for March 2, 2025, and the Goya Awards on February 8, 2025, La Suprema will face tough competition from other Latin American and international films. However, the momentum the film has gained from its international success offers a promising outlook. Whether or not it takes home the top awards, La Suprema has already cemented its place in the hearts of audiences and critics worldwide.
