A Dark and Gritty Take on Sexual Violence, Rage, and Gender Dynamics
Spanish Drama 'Fury' Explores the Aftermath of Assault and the Power of Theatre as Catharsis
‘Fury’ – A Raw, Unfiltered Look at Trauma and Revenge
Spanish filmmaker Gemma Blasco makes her feature film debut with 'Fury', a gripping drama that follows a young woman’s journey through trauma, anger, and self-discovery after a violent sexual assault.
The film stars Ángela Cervantes as Alex, a survivor navigating her fury through theatre. Written by Blasco and Eva Pauné, 'Fury' seeks to portray the raw and unsettling impact of sexual violence. Produced by Ringo Media and RM Pelicula AIE, the film is set for an international release via Filmax on March 28.
“I wanted to see a representation that was dirtier and grittier, rather than one that was somehow romanticized and sugar-coated,” Blasco told Variety.
A Deeply Personal Story for Director Gemma Blasco
Blasco, who survived a sexual assault at the age of 18, was inspired to tell a story that challenges conventional portrayals of trauma.
“It didn’t take me long to realize that I would end up making this film because I couldn’t find any references that represented me and the way I was feeling inside.”
The film rejects the traditional 'overcoming adversity' narrative and instead plunges into the psychological and emotional turmoil of a survivor. It uses haunting imagery—gutted boars, Greek tragedy, blood, and the night—to reflect the chaotic and visceral nature of trauma. Through the protagonist’s use of theatre, Blasco channels her own emotions as a filmmaker, making ‘Fury’ an intensely personal project.
“Just as the protagonist of the film uses theatre to channel that fury, I wanted to use my role as director of the film in the same way,” she explained.
Exploring Gender, Violence, and Emotional Expression
Blasco’s 'Fury' delves into gender norms, specifically how men and women are conditioned to process emotions differently.
“Men are more validated by anger and fury. They are taught to protect women, just as women are taught to seek protection rather than autonomy,” Blasco noted.
The film contrasts two perspectives: Alex, who internalizes her trauma and channels it through art, and her brother, who struggles with his failure to protect her. Blasco examines how society perceives female anger differently from male aggression, creating a complex and layered narrative.
“As a person, I reject violence. But as a director, I wanted to explore what happens when a female character fully embraces her fury.”
A Powerful Cinematic Experience, Set for Release
Produced by Barcelona-based Ringo Media and RM Pelicula AIE, 'Fury' will hit Spanish theatres on March 28 before international distribution by Filmax.
With its unflinching approach to trauma, gender expectations, and the primal nature of rage, 'Fury' promises to be a thought-provoking and hard-hitting cinematic experience.
Last Updated on March 20, 2025 by Sandeep
