Psychological horror meets gothic suspense in the chilling thriller 'CONFINED' ('La casa Angosta'), which started filming in Asunción, Paraguay, on March 24, 2025. Co-directed by Armando Aquino ('Leal 2,' 'Mborayhu Porã') and Hernán Moyano ('The Red Book Ritual 2,' 'Cold Sweat,' 'Masacre Tonight'), this ambitious project signals a fresh wave of genre cinema emerging from Paraguay, featuring significant regional talent.
Leading the cast are celebrated Paraguayan actors Lizzie Gómez, Diro Romero, Natalia Cálcena, Matías Miranda, Lia Love, Alberto Jara, and Alejandra Cabral Valinotti. The executive production team, led by Gaspar Zaldívar ('Luna de Cigarras,' 'El Supremo Manuscrito') and Bruno Zuccolillo, has brought together top Paraguayan production companies such as Janus Media SA and Zuma Productions, with Chaco Films involved as an associate producer. This robust partnership ensures high-quality production values and impactful storytelling.
Internationally recognized Black Mandala Films, known for their presence at prestigious festivals including SITGES, TIFF, and BIFAN, will manage the post-production and global distribution of 'CONFINED.'
The story, penned by Hernán Moyano, centers around Salma, a young woman trapped in a toxic relationship. Financial desperation leads her to accept a position caring for a terminally ill elderly man in an eerie, baroque mansion. As unsettling supernatural events unfold, Salma finds herself fighting for her sanity amidst a labyrinth of dark secrets.
Inspired by iconic films such as 'Hereditary' and 'The Others,' 'CONFINED' dives deep into psychological horror, emphasizing intense emotional tension rather than traditional scare tactics. Director Armando Aquino emphasizes this unique approach, stating, “This project is truly challenging because it explores horror primarily through psychological depth rather than mere scares. This allows us to experiment with different narrative techniques and construct a uniquely aesthetic universe.”
Co-director Hernán Moyano echoes this excitement, highlighting Paraguay’s emerging cinematic strengths: “I’m thrilled to be part of such an ambitious project alongside a team of talented local artists and technicians. Paraguay's high production standards position it perfectly to attract international collaborations and launch local productions that resonate globally.”
Filming for 'CONFINED' will wrap up in the second half of 2025, followed by its anticipated circuit through international film festivals and eventual theatrical release in Paraguay.
