Exclusive: Daniela Vega, Star of 'A Fantastic Woman', Joins Constanza Majluf's 'Pink Desert' as Executive Producer

BUENOS AIRES Daniela Vega, acclaimed for her lead role in Sebastin Lelios Academy Award-winning A Fantastic Woman, has signed on as an executive producer for Desierto Rosa, the first feature film by director Constanza Majluf. The production is a collaboration between Chiles Espejismo Cine and Perus Mestizo Studios.

The film stars Lola Bravo, known from Lelios Cannes-selected The Wave, portraying Mariola, a character living in a northern Chilean desert mining town in 1970. Mariola, recognized in her community as Mario, embarks on a journey to Lima at the invitation of a theatrical troupe of transvestites. Along the way, she begins to embrace her true self. Upon returning to Chile, the story follows her as she asserts her identity amid a backdrop of political and social transformation.

The cast also includes Daniela Vega herself, Marcelo Alonso (The Club), Mina Serrano (Cris Mir, Ella), and Claudia Di Girolamo (Chromosome 21).

Reflecting on the project, Vega stated, In Chile and across Latin America, we are witnessing a period that mirrors the story of Pink Desert, where extreme political views are undermining hard-won rights. This film is both urgent and necessary. She praised its combination of humor and drama as particularly compelling and emphasized the authenticity of the story.

The screenplay is co-written by Constanza Majluf and Ignacio Juricic, a Cannes Queer Palm recipient for Lost Queens. Production is led by Rodrigo Daz, known for Do Not Let Me Die Alone, and supported by Juan de Dios Larran (Jackie, Spencer, Maria). Sergio Armstrong serves as director of photography, and Amparo Baeza is the production designer.

Rodrigo Daz highlighted the projects strong ensemble cast and skilled crew, confirming pre-production is scheduled for April 2026. He added, While we have secured funding from the Chilean Ministry of Culture and Juan de Dios Larrans support, additional resources are needed, including co-producers, sales agents, platforms, and distributors.

Director Constanza Majluf, who started her film career with roles in The Motorcycle Diaries and Pablo Larrans Post Mortem, later worked as second assistant director on Eli Roths The Green Inferno and Knock Knock. Majluf recently directed the vertical series Wings of Fire: The Dragon Slayer Is My Ex-Lover. Pink Desert has participated in co-production labs including Estelab Latin America-Europe, Cine Qua Non Lab, Ibermedia, Fundacin Carolinas CDPAI, El Principio del Film at Ventana Sur, and this years MAFF.

Author's Commentary: Daniela Vega and the Urgency of Desierto Rosa

Daniela Vega's involvement as an executive producer in Desierto Rosa signals a significant step in Latin American cinema, bringing both visibility and authenticity to stories of gender identity. The film’s focus on a character navigating self-discovery amid political upheaval resonates strongly with current socio-political debates in Chile and beyond.

The casting of Lola Bravo as Mariola, alongside Vega and a robust ensemble including Marcelo Alonso and Claudia Di Girolamo, demonstrates a deliberate effort to combine emerging talent with established actors. This mix promises both dramatic depth and nuanced performances, enhancing the film's potential impact.

From a production perspective, the collaboration between Espejismo Cine and Mestizo Studios, coupled with support from Chilean cultural funds, positions the project strategically for international attention. Yet, as highlighted by producer Rodrigo Díaz, securing additional co-producers and distribution partners remains essential to realize the film’s full scope.

In summary, Desierto Rosa is more than a period drama; it is a timely exploration of identity, social change, and resilience, reflecting the urgent cultural conversations shaping Latin America today. Vega’s leadership, both on and off screen, underscores the film’s significance as a work of artistic and social relevance.

Sources:

• ‘A Fantastic Woman’ Star Daniela Vega Boards Constanza Majluf’s ‘Pink Desert’ as Executive Producer (EXCLUSIVE)

Author: Maya Henderson
Maya Henderson is a journalist focused on technology and startups. She has experience in leading IT publications and excels at conducting interviews and creating visual content.