Marcelo Martinessi’s 'Narciso' Makes its World Premiere at the 76th Berlinale Panorama Section

On February 17, 2026, the global cinematic community gathered for the world premiere of 'Narciso,' the latest feature from acclaimed director Marcelo Martinessi. Debuting within the prestigious Panorama section of the 76th Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale), the film represents a massive collaborative effort. This multi-national co-production involves creative and financial contributions from Paraguay, Brazil, Portugal, Germany, Spain, France, and Uruguay. The narrative itself draws its inspiration from the literary work of Guido Rodríguez Alcalá, offering a loose adaptation of the original text.

Set against the turbulent backdrop of Paraguay between 1958 and 1959, the film captures a pivotal moment as the country’s military regime began to solidify its grip on power. The story centers on Narciso, a magnetic radio personality whose influence grows alongside the arrival of American rock-n-roll. As his popularity surges, he inadvertently becomes a beacon of liberty and cultural defiance, a role that precedes his enigmatic and untimely death. Described as a claustrophobic political thriller, the movie delves deep into the friction between burgeoning cultural modernization and the suffocating weight of authoritarian rule.

Marcelo Martinessi, an Asunción native born in 1973, is no stranger to the accolades of the Berlin International Film Festival. His 2018 debut, 'The Heiresses,' was a critical darling, securing the Silver Bear for Best Actress and the Alfred Bauer Prize. While his previous work was lauded for its intricate exploration of female psychology, 'Narciso' marks a significant thematic shift for the director. Here, Martinessi pivots his lens toward a male-centric environment, examining the public spheres of state-sponsored repression and the social tensions that define them.

The titular role of Narciso is brought to life by Diro Romero, whose performance anchors the film’s exploration of identity. He is joined by Manuel Cuenca, who portrays Lulu, a radio station director determined to modernize the airwaves by replacing traditional folklore with the rebellious sounds of rock-n-roll. Adding to the international flair of the cast is Nahuel Pérez Biscayart, who takes on the role of the American Ambassador, Mr. Wesson. With a runtime of 101 minutes, the film utilizes both Spanish and Guaraní to maintain linguistic authenticity and cultural depth.

The 76th Berlinale, running from February 12 to February 22, 2026, is presided over by the legendary German filmmaker Wim Wenders, who serves as the head of the international jury. While 'Narciso' has already made its mark on the festival circuit, specific details regarding its theatrical release in Paraguay and other international markets are currently being finalized. The film’s debut in the Panorama section underscores its significance as a poignant exploration of historical memory and the enduring struggle for personal and political freedom.

By blending historical fact with a tense, thriller-like atmosphere, Martinessi continues to establish himself as a vital voice in South American cinema. 'Narciso' serves not only as a character study but also as a broader commentary on how art and media can become unintentional tools of resistance. As the festival progresses, the film is expected to generate significant discussion regarding its portrayal of the intersection between global pop culture and localized political struggle.