Feb 17 • 16:03 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

‘Ravalear’ takes to the Berlinale the real estate looting and the closure of family businesses in Barcelona

The show 'Ravalear', inspired by the eviction of his family’s restaurant, sheds light on real estate speculation and its impact on family-run businesses in Barcelona, making its debut at the Berlinale.

'Ravalear' is the first Spanish series to participate in the Berlinale, inspired by the eviction of the Can Lluís restaurant, which had been operated by the Rodríguez family since 1929 until its closure due to real estate speculation in 2021. The family-run eatery, which survived the Spanish Civil War and an anarchist attack in 1946, was more than just a business; it represented a legacy that was ultimately betrayed by a real estate manager. This poignant backdrop sets the stage for the series, revealing the broader implications of such evictions and the state of many family-owned businesses globally.

As Pol Rodríguez, the creator of 'Ravalear', reflects on the heartache of losing his family's restaurant, he uses this personal experience to craft a story that resonates with many. The series not only addresses the specific challenges faced by family businesses in Barcelona but also spotlights a global crisis marked by real estate speculation and the ensuing displacement of longstanding enterprises. Rodríguez views his participation in the Berlinale as an opportunity to serve justice through storytelling, where revenge is metaphorically depicted through the success of the series.

The Berlinale serves as a significant platform for these narratives, emphasizing the importance of independent cinema in portraying social issues. By bringing 'Ravalear' to this prestigious festival, Rodríguez hopes to highlight the growing problem of property speculation that disrupts community structures and family legacies. The show is set to premiere on HBO Max in May, promising viewers a mix of real-life inspiration and compelling drama that echoes the struggles faced by many in urban environments today.

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