Director Adrián Araujo: Behind the Scenes of House by the Lake

Director Adrián Araujo: Behind the Scenes of House by the Lake

Director Adrián Araujo recently premiered his latest film House by the Lake at a prestigious festival, fulfilling a promise he made to himself the year before. In this candid conversation, he discusses the film's complex production challenges, his collaboration with lead actress Mara, and the deeper themes that drive this story of love, loss, and maternal devotion.

Tell us about your journey to bringing this film to the festival.
It's quite special, actually. I came to this festival last year as a guest because a producer invited us. After seeing what it was like, I knew immediately that our film had to premiere here. I even have this memory of touching the mermaid statue downstairs and saying, "I hope to come back next year." And here we are! It's truly an honor to be at this festival.

What were some of the biggest production challenges you faced?
Oh, I have a funny anecdote about that. One day, my assistant director told me the day's schedule: we had to use a fake pregnancy belly for the first time, film scenes with green screen effects, and work with real scorpions climbing on the actress. That's when I thought, "What have I gotten myself into?" We had about ten of the most complex scenes in one day, visual effects, prosthetics, live animals. The scorpions were real, though they had their venom removed. It was intense, but we built the film step by step, solving each challenge as it came.

How did the script develop, and what drew you to this story?
The script is by Gil, our screenwriter and friend. When he first pitched it, I was skeptical, it seemed like another story about a woman who couldn't get pregnant, similar to "Huesera." But as he revealed more in bits and pieces during meetings, I became fascinated. I realized this was really about abandonment and loss, but also about the greatest love, there can be unconditional love. I told him, "This is a love story for life itself."

What about your collaboration with Mara?
Mara is incredibly method. She stayed in character all day, even playing sad music to maintain the mood. When she cut her hair for the role, it was emotionally challenging for her, but she committed completely. People would ask why she seemed distant, but she was just so immersed in Susana's world. The film wouldn't be the same without her dedication.

What message do you hope audiences take from this film?
We wanted to show a woman who isn't a victim, someone who faces losses but can be fierce and overcome any challenge. It's about empowering women and showing that even in the darkest moments, there's strength to move forward.

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