‘El pintor de los milagros’ conquista Madrid: cuatro nuevas funciones tras agotar las entradas del estreno

The Peruvian film “El pintor de los milagros” has generated significant anticipation in Madrid, prompting additional screenings following a rapid sellout of its debut shows. Set to premiere in the Spanish capital on October 17, 2026, the movie’s early arrival there precedes its commercial release in Peruvian theaters scheduled for October 29.

Originally planned with just two sessions, the strong demand from viewers in Madrid, including the substantial local Peruvian community, led organizers to schedule four extra performances on October 23 and 24. Each of these added screenings accommodates 80 attendees, collectively offering 320 additional seats for audiences eager to explore the story behind one of Peru’s most venerated religious devotions.

Directed by Alex Hidalgo Gonzales, the film delves into the origins of the Señor de los Milagros (Lord of Miracles), a deeply rooted spiritual tradition in Peru. Its release coincides with the observance of the “mes morado,” a month marked by religious ceremonies and cultural expressions surrounding this prominent figure.

At the heart of the narrative lies a remarkable image painted on an adobe wall that miraculously withstood devastating 17th-century earthquakes in Lima. The film, however, shifts focus onto Benito, an enslaved Afro-Peruvian artist of Angolan descent, who created this mural in the Pachacamilla neighborhood. By centering Benito’s story, the film explores themes of faith, resilience, and identity under the oppressive conditions of colonial society.

The cinematic approach intertwines two timelines: one follows Francisco, a contemporary journalist investigating historic archives to uncover the true origins of the devotion; the other transports viewers back to 1651, revealing Benito’s personal and artistic journey. This dual narrative structure allows the audience to grasp how a centuries-old tradition has transcended time to become a unifying symbol for millions.

“El pintor de los milagros” not only offers a historical and spiritual recount but also highlights the often overlooked contributions of Afro-Peruvians in shaping the country’s cultural and religious heritage. The film has earned support from various Peruvian institutions, including the Brotherhood of Señor de los Milagros de las Nazarenas, the Afro-Peruvian Congressional Committee, and the Society of Audiovisual Artists.

The production features well-known actors from Peru’s cinema and television sectors, aiming to bring a layered story of memory, faith, and cultural identity to a broader audience. The enthusiastic reception in Madrid underscores the film’s resonance beyond Peru’s borders, particularly among expatriate communities and those interested in Latin American religious and cultural narratives.

While further details about the film’s reception in Peru remain forthcoming, its early success in Spain underscores the growing international interest in Peruvian cinema that engages with historical and social themes. “El pintor de los milagros” emerges as a significant cultural work that reclaims a pivotal figure from the margins of history and invites reflection on the enduring power of faith and artistic expression.