Historical miniseries consisting of 2 seasons of 5 and 6 episodes each, based on the novel by Marcos Aguinis.
"Marrano"
1. /mar•ra•no/ • pejorative adjective, n. (hist.)
Said of a converted Jew: Suspected of secretly practicing their old religion.
In the 17th century, it was a death sentence.
La Gesta del Marrano
In the turbulent 17th-century Viceroyalty of Peru, Francisco Maldonado da Silva, a brilliant converso doctor, is imprisoned by the Inquisition and accused of secretly practicing the Jewish faith. But instead of renouncing his beliefs to save his life, he decides to face the fearsome Holy Office tribunal with his intellect, his conviction, and his unbreakable will.
Throughout twelve years of imprisonment, torture, and isolation, Francisco reconstructs his story, that of his family, and that of a society marked by intolerance and the struggle for power. Between fragmented memories and the weight of confinement, we relive his childhood marked by secrecy, the loss of his home, the persecution of his father, and the sacrifices made in the name of truth.
La Gesta del Marrano is more than a historical drama: it is a story of courage, identity, and resistance that immerses us in a world where faith could be both salvation and a death sentence. A powerful series, full of tension and emotion, that keeps the viewer captivated while revealing the mechanisms of fear, power, and the struggle for freedom.
"A narrative where freedom and resistance challenge even the most relentless power."
Why is this story important?
La Gesta del Marrano offers the opportunity to explore current themes about religious intolerance, identity, and the courage to resist oppression. The series seeks to resonate with contemporary audiences, showing that the struggle for freedom of conscience remains as relevant today as it was in the 17th century. More than a story from the past, it is a mirror of our present.
Contemporary relevance
The tensions between faith, power, and freedom of thought remain part of our reality. Francisco Maldonado da Silva embodies the struggle for identity and resistance against a system that annihilates what it cannot control. His story confronts us with the eternal question: what are we willing to sacrifice to defend our beliefs?
Identity and memory
The legacy of those who were persecuted must not be forgotten. The miniseries rescues a part of history that was silenced for centuries and brings it to the present, revealing the hidden roots of our identity and exploring the price of freedom in societies marked by intolerance.
Suspense that illustrates
A story of survival and betrayal in an era where a wrong word meant death. Between Inquisition espionage, moral dilemmas, and constant tension, the series keeps viewers on the edge of their seats while revealing the mechanisms of fear and power.
Many truths, one epic
Main theme
Historically, men have wanted to impose a single truth. But humanity is complex, and there are many possible truths. The most important message the miniseries highlights is that in diversity lies the beauty of our world. And it's time to start valuing it.
Adjacent themes
Various secondary themes are addressed such as the medicine of the era; the exploitation of indigenous peoples; the war against rebellious Indians; the role of women in that society; slavery; and the conflicts arising from the encomienda system.
A story that already made history
Inspired by the acclaimed novel by renowned international author Marcos Aguinis.
La Gesta del Marrano has reached millions of readers worldwide and has established itself as a classic of Latin American literature.
"A message of solidarity and respect among human beings. May
its message of love and freedom resonate throughout the world."
— The International Raoul Wallenberg Foundation
"A moving song of freedom."
— Nobel Prize winner Mario Vargas Llosa
Over one million copies sold in Spanish
Published in English, expanding its reach to English-speaking markets
Acclaimed in Spain, Portugal, Mexico, Chile, Peru, Israel, Germany...
Beyond entertainment
The rise of the historical genre in the last decade has shown that audiences seek stories with depth, visual beauty, and cultural value. La Gesta del Marrano, with its fusion of historical authenticity and universal narrative, positions itself as a series capable of connecting emotionally with global audiences and generating conversation beyond the screen.
In a global context where discrimination, authoritarianism, and cultural conflicts remain challenges, the story of Francisco Maldonado da Silva becomes a contemporary call for empathy and diversity.
"A series that captivates, inspires, and confronts"
The audience is waiting for miniseries like this
La Gesta del Marrano is positioned at the peak of the historical genre, which has grown significantly in the last decade.
60% | Recent studies show that more than 60% of global audiences on streaming platforms seek productions that combine authenticity and universal themes. |
70% | 70% of viewers prefer content that inspires social and cultural reflection (Source: Nielsen, 2021). |
| The series is not just a historical recreation; it is a profound human portrait that explores universal dilemmas: the struggle for freedom, resistance to oppression, and the courage to defend principles in times of adversity. |
Successes in the historical genre
Braveheart
This acclaimed film tells the story of William Wallace's fight for Scotland's freedom against English oppression. Its power lies in portraying a leader willing to give everything for his convictions, challenging established powers. La Gesta del Marrano shares this spirit: the courage of one who defends their identity, even if it means facing death.
One Hundred Years of Solitude
An adaptation of the iconic work by Gabriel García Márquez, this Netflix series brings to the screen the emotional and cultural richness of Latin American magical realism, with a narrative that connects universal themes. La Gesta del Marrano shares this potential to explore cultural identity with unique historical depth.
The Chosen
This series, which focuses on the human stories behind the Gospels, has achieved unexpected success thanks to its authentic and emotional perspective. La Gesta del Marrano finds a similar approach in this reference: the portrayal of deeply human characters in challenging historical and spiritual contexts.
Where it all happens
With a cinematic approach that prioritizes historical authenticity and human emotion. The art direction uses:
Lima, Peru
As the capital of the Viceroyalty of Peru, Lima is the epicenter of inquisitorial power. Its narrow streets and colonial architecture provide a perfect framework to represent oppression and religious control.
Ibatín and Córdoba, Argentina
These locations capture the essence of Francisco's childhood, reflecting family coexistence and the first signs of persecution.
Santiago de Chile
As the scene of personal and professional transformation, this city symbolizes Francisco's growth and trials as he leads the region's only hospital.
The Jungle and the Andes
These landscapes serve as the backdrop for the characters' journeys, underlining the connection with nature and the emotional and geographical challenges of the era.
The voice of a story that time wanted to silence
This production is not just a historical drama, but also a timeless reflection on the struggle for freedom, resistance to authoritarianism, and the courage to remain true to personal principles in times of oppression. In a world where intolerance and ambition shaped society, Francisco's story resonates today as a call to value diversity and defend justice.
With a cinematic tone, majestic locations, and a deeply human narrative, La Gesta del Marrano seeks to capture the complexities of a historical era while connecting with contemporary audiences.
Our Team
We are united by a story that is part of our collective memory. Telling it is a way to honor it.
Romina Esquenazi
CREATOR & EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Founder of Scooch Over Films, Romina acquired the rights to Marcos Aguinis's novel with the conviction to make visible a story silenced for centuries. She leads this project with sensitivity, cultural commitment, and a clear vision of global impact.
Sergio Esquenazi
SCREENWRITER & PRINCIPAL DIRECTOR
With an international career in film and television, Sergio has worked with renowned actors and directed feature films, shorts, and commercials. He has brought Francisco's inner journey to life. His commitment to the project is personal: his family, like Romina's, holds a Jewish legacy that deeply connects with this story.
Gabriela Garcia Sabando
CREATIVE PRODUCER & STRATEGIST
Producer, entrepreneur, and marketing specialist with over ten years leading communication projects. She joined the project to contribute to its development and lead the outreach strategy. Her approach combines commercial vision, human sensitivity, and purpose.
Help us produce
La Gesta del Marrano
Individuals
Your donation makes it possible for this story silenced for centuries to come to life, awaken collective memory, and help us build a legacy of dignity in the face of intolerance. Every contribution counts. Be part of this epic from the beginning.
Make a donationInstitutions, foundations, and companies
We seek allies who want to join this mission to revalue freedom of conscience and give voice to a long-silenced story. Your sponsorship allows this story to reach everyone. To learn about institutional support opportunities, contact us.
Contact usWith the Support of
Contact
Scooch Over Films Inc.
1981 McGill College Ave. Montréal, Québec H3A 0G6 Canada
www.scoochoverfilms.com