Woo Films Acquires Rights to Annie Ernaux's "The Use of Photography"

Leading Mexican production company Woo Films has secured the rights to adapt Annie Ernaux’s 2005 novel, “The Use of Photography.” Directed by Natalia Beristáin, known for her work on “The Eternal Feminine,” the film will explore the love story between Ernaux and photographer Marc Marie during her breast cancer treatment. Production details and casting announcements are anticipated in the coming months.

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“The Use of Photography” is notable for being Ernaux's first major work to integrate visual imagery as a central narrative element, paving the way for her acclaimed novel “The Years.” The book is recognized for its profound exploration of themes such as love, desire, and the human experience. Mario Savino, a producer at Woo Films, highlighted Ernaux's ability to transform intimate moments into universal themes, calling the work “extraordinarily cinematic.”

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Natalia Beristáin has emerged as a significant voice in Latin American cinema over the past decade. Her films have premiered at prestigious festivals including Venice, Cannes, and San Sebastián, earning critical acclaim. Her previous work, “Noise,” which follows a mother's search for her missing daughter, became Netflix’s most-watched non-English language film globally upon its release.

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Beristáin expressed her enthusiasm for adapting Ernaux's narrative, stating, “In times as turbulent as those we are living through globally, few things feel as hopeful to me as the narrative of Ernaux and Marie.” She emphasized the importance of translating their story of love transcending death into a cinematic experience, noting the challenges involved in capturing such a deeply philosophical narrative.

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While the adaptation has garnered interest, some critics may question the feasibility of translating Ernaux's complex themes into film. The challenge lies in maintaining the depth of the original narrative while appealing to a broader audience.

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Woo Films has built a reputation over the last 20 years as a leading independent production company in Mexico and Latin America, with a portfolio that includes critically acclaimed and commercially successful titles. Their projects have been featured at major film festivals, and they have produced popular series such as “The House of Flowers.”

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As production progresses, further details regarding casting and release dates for “The Use of Photography” are expected to be announced, marking another significant addition to Ernaux's body of work in film adaptations.

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