Chilean Sci-Fi Series "Hidden Island" Set for International Launch at Berlinale

"Hidden Island" ("Isla oculta") is a high-concept sci-fi series produced by Chile's Rio Estudios, which follows Fabiola, a determined detective investigating the mysterious disappearance of a Mexican archaeology student in southern Patagonia. The six-part series explores themes of kidnapping, strange disappearances, miraculous healings, and potential extraterrestrial activity surrounding the mythical Friendship Island. The series is among 17 scripted projects selected for the Berlinale Series Market, with a screening scheduled for February 16, 2026.

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Rome-based TVCO has acquired worldwide distribution rights for "Hidden Island," excluding Latin America, where Rio Estudios will manage sales. Simonetta Polese, head of sales at TVCO, expressed confidence in the series' potential to resonate with global broadcasters and platforms, highlighting its compelling narrative and strong female lead. The European Film Market in Berlin is viewed as an ideal platform for launching the series internationally.

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"Hidden Island" features a talented cast and crew, including Daniela Ramírez, known for her role in HBO Max's "Isabel: The Intimate Story of Isabel Allende." The writing team includes Julio Rojas, Felipe Carmona, and Juan M. Dartizio, while Rodrigo Susarte directs all episodes. Showrunner Pablo Diáz del Rios emphasized the series' philosophical and existential themes, noting that it addresses contemporary issues such as artificial intelligence and humanity's current experiences, despite budget constraints.

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The series is competing for the newly established Studio Babelsberg Production Excellence Award at the Berlin Series Market, which recognizes outstanding production qualities, creative vision, and international appeal. This accolade aims to highlight innovative approaches in series production.

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Looking ahead, Diáz del Rios hinted at a second season set in 2028, where Fabiola will experience premonitions and visions, suggesting a continuation of the series' exploration of complex themes and narratives.

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While the series has garnered positive attention for its unique premise and strong female lead, some critics may question the execution of its ambitious themes, particularly given the limited budget compared to major sci-fi productions like "Interstellar" or "Arrival." However, Diáz del Rios remains optimistic about the series' ability to engage audiences with its distinctive storytelling.

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• “The series delivers a compelling blend of thriller and mystery, anchored by a powerful female lead and a strong narrative identity.” — Simonetta Polese, TVCO Head of Sales

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• “I think we didn’t fall into clichés, that we managed to create a more philosophical, more existential series, with nods to sci-fi,” — Pablo Diáz del Rios, Showrunner

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"Hidden Island" represents a significant step for Chilean television on the international stage, showcasing the potential of Latin American storytelling in the global market.

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