Pulsar Content has sponsored “A Survivor’s Tale” produced by KG Prods. (“Custody”), the company founded by Costa-Gavras and Michel Ray-Gavras. The film stars Salome DeWils, star of Xavier Giannulli’s “Lost Illusions” which was screened in Venice Competition.
Directed by Belgian filmmaker Mischa Wald, “Survivor’s Tale” is inspired by the true story of Marguerite de la Roque, a young noblewoman abandoned in the Canadian prairies in the 16th century. After being convicted of bearing a child born from a violent assault, she was left with her rapist and her maid on a deserted island near Newfoundland.
Marguerite must survive two horrific years on the “Island of the Devils,” where she faces starvation and extreme cold. As she struggles to keep herself and her unborn child safe, Marguerite's journey becomes one of profound transformation and liberation. Originally titled “L'île de la Demoiselle,” the film also stars rising French actor Louis Perez (“For Night Will Come”).
Alexandre Gavras of KG Prods is producing the film in association with Stenola Prods. The two companies previously collaborated on Joachim Lafosse’s “The Restless” and “A Silence.” Pulsar is launching its international sales in Toronto.
“We hope that the true story of Margaret de la Roque’s survival and coming of age on this deserted, barren island will serve as an example of human willpower for women of all ages,” KG Prods. said in a statement.
His first feature film was In the Arms of My Enemy, which was screened at Critics' Week in Cannes.
“A Survivor’s Tale is a feminist, epic film, the characters are strong and we are confident it will win over international audiences,” said Pulsar, noting that it tells “a true story that resonates strongly with our times.”
“While survivor films often feature male characters, Misha Wald seizes the opportunity to move us deeply through Margaret’s epic journey,” Steinola said.
Principal photography on the film will begin in October in Brittany, and is scheduled to be completed by mid-2025. Jokers will be released in France.
