Spain has given Woody Allen a boost. The government approved a grant of €1.5 million to shoot his next movie in Madrid. The money comes with one clear request: the city name must appear in the title. This promise turns a long search for financing into a solid plan.
Working Title and Conditions
Documents show the film currently carries the working title WASP 2026. The acronym stands for Woody Allen Summer Project. The title meets the government’s condition and signals a fresh start for the veteran director.
From Italy to Barcelona to Madrid
Allen, now 89, first aimed to film in Italy this summer. Funding fell apart and the Italian set was cancelled. He then turned to Barcelona after reports in La Vanguardia and other outlets. That effort also stalled. The Madrid investment finally gives the project a firm footing.
What We Know About the Film
Details about plot and cast remain under wraps. Fans wonder if Javier Bardem or Penélope Cruz, stars of “Vicky Cristina Barcelona,” might join the new story. The possibility adds excitement for Spanish audiences.
Recent Successes Boost Confidence
Allen’s last effort, the 2023 movie “Coup de Chance,” marked his 50th film. It premiered at the Venice Film Festival, was shot in French, and earned an 84 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics praised it as his strongest work since “Blue Jasmine” in 2013. The positive reception shows that Allen can still deliver quality cinema.
Financing Challenges and Future Plans
In a recent interview, Allen told journalist Roger Friedman that he hopes to shoot another film in New York. He said he faces real trouble finding money for a U.S. project. The #MeToo controversy has kept him away from American studios for several years. Instead, he has set recent stories in Paris and San Sebastián.
Legacy and Anticipation
Critics often cite Allen as one of the greatest living directors. His catalog includes classics like “Annie Hall,” “Manhattan,” “Broadway Danny Rose,” “Hannah and Her Sisters,” and “Crimes and Misdemeanors.” Even with age, he retains sharp wit and a talent for storytelling. Legendary cinematographer Vittorio Storaro has helped shape his recent visual style.
With Spanish government backing, Woody Allen now has a clear path to bring his next vision to the screen. The film promises to add another chapter to his long and celebrated career.
Source: World of Reel
