Catalan iconic musical 'Mar i Cel' gets film adaptation

After captivating over 1.6 million theatre-goers, the musical 'Mar i Cel' reaches the big screen this Friday.

From November 28, the film adaptation of Catalonia’s most popular musical will be screened in more than 50 cinemas across the region.

Directed by Paulí Subirà, the film offers a fresh, more intimate take on the beloved story.

For the shoot, nine cameras were used to create a visually and narratively immersive experience.

The adaptation includes new scenes and previously unseen interludes that expand the original story and provide additional historical context.

The soundtrack combines recordings from the original stage performances with new recordings by the Vallès Symphony Orchestra.

"It's a fantastic way to rediscover Mar i Cel," Subirà told the Catalan News Agency (ACN). "We wanted to bring it to cinemas because it deserves it," he added.

Mar i Cel (“Sea and Sky” in English) tells the story of Christians and pirates, exploring the clash between cultures and religions.

On one side are the Christians aboard the ship carrying the Viceroy of Valencia, Charles, and his daughter, Blanca. On the other side are the Moorish pirates, expelled by order of King Philip III and led by Saïd.

When the pirates board the Christian ship, Saïd’s manners unsettle Blanca, leading her to confront unexpected feelings of love for him, sparking a web of doubts and complexities.