In brief
- Catalan filmmakers Pauline Cabrol Mathieu and Romain Broch present their first feature film, shot at Villa Palauda in Thuir.
- The film, titled ‘Un taxi pour l’Espagne’, will be screened at a free preview on Saturday 19 September 2026 at 8:30 pm during the Journées du Patrimoine.
- This production by the local company Noct Film will be officially released in cinemas in January 2027.
On Saturday 19 September 2026, for the Journées du Patrimoine, Catalan filmmakers Pauline Cabrol Mathieu and Romain Broch will preview their first feature film, ‘Un taxi pour l’Espagne’, shot in the heart of the iconic site in Thuir. This free screening in the heart of the park will precede the national cinema release of this comedy-drama, set for January 2027.
The emergence of a new cinematographic voice in Catalonia
Hailing from the Pyrénées-Orientales department, Pauline Cabrol Mathieu and Romain Broch share a common passion for screenwriting and directing. Their partnership was initially formed on the film sets of renowned director André Téchiné, a foundational experience that sealed their desire to work together. Building on this creative synergy, the two film professionals chose to found their own production company, Noct Film, based in Baixas.
This young production house has a clear ambition: to support first films, reveal new artistic sensibilities, and promote cultural identity on the Franco-Spanish border. By anchoring themselves locally, the two producers and directors wish to provide a sounding board for the intimate stories of Catalonia, while opening up to influences and collaborations with the neighbouring Iberian Peninsula.
A family drama tinged with black humour and tenderness
An ambitious cinematographic creation
For their first feature-length attempt, the duo created ‘Un taxi pour l’Espagne’, a singular work that addresses a highly delicate social issue. The feature film traces the sensitive story of two sisters faced with their mother’s decision to resort to euthanasia. Despite the apparent gravity of the subject, the film unfolds through a tragicomic lens, constantly oscillating between dark humour and moments of deep tenderness.
To carry this complex narrative, the cast brings together leading performers. It notably features Anna Cervinka, a member of the prestigious Comédie-Française, alongside Elisabeth Vitalii and Soliane Moisset. The latter two accurately portray the two sisters at the centre of this family turmoil, delivering nuanced, sincere, and deeply human performances.
Villa Palauda as a character in its own right
Conceived primarily as a closed-room drama, the film required a setting equal to its dramatic intensity. For the directors, the choice of the Pyrénées-Orientales was obvious, but they needed to find the perfect location capable of embodying the singular atmosphere of the script. For this closed-room setting, the directors were looking for a backdrop that was both living and almost surreal.
Villa Palauda, an exceptional setting
The discovery of Villa Palauda in Thuir was a case of artistic love at first sight. This majestic residence, with its unique architecture and surrounded by a lush park, immediately established itself as a character in its own right in the plot. Its hushed lounges, theatrical perspectives, and timeless atmosphere offer a perfect visual resonance to the unspoken words and emotions of the protagonists.
An intimate communion with the history and heritage of Thuir
Beyond its artistic dimension, the filming of ‘Un taxi pour l’Espagne’ is part of an approach to sharing with the Catalan territory. The project sparked great enthusiasm among the residents of Thuir, who are very attached to the history of the Violet family, founders of Byrrh, who once owned the premises. Andrée, one of the historical keepers of the villa, bears witness to this living memory, while Pascale Doutres, representative of the Thuir Tourist Office, highlights the local fervour surrounding this heritage establishment.
An unprecedented screening for the Journées du Patrimoine
To celebrate this unbreakable bond, the preview will be held in the idyllic setting of Parc Palauda. This free event, scheduled for Saturday 19 September 2026 at 8:30 pm, promises to be a moment of privileged communion between the film crew, residents, and heritage enthusiasts. It is also an opportunity to discover other local talents, such as content creator Thomas le Catalan, guest of honour for this exceptional evening.
