The Colombian film “180 Segundos,” (180 Seconds) premiers in theatres across Colombia, Friday.
The film follows a bank robber named Zico and his crew as they attempt to rob a bank while contending with corrupt cops and gangsters.
Principal shooting took place in Colombia’s third largest city, Cali. The film features a young cast of mostly unknown actors, fast paced editing, and an energetic soundtrack of Colombian punk and ska.
The film was partially funded by private Colombian network RCN TV. Money also came from numerous “micro-investors,” who received tax breaks on their investment through Colombia’s new “Ley del Cine” (Cinema Act).
Writer/ Director Alex Giraldo told Colombia Reports, “we’re seeing a huge increase in the quantity and quality of Colombian films. And this is directly related to the Ley del Cine. […] Cinema is a risky business and it’s hard to find money for films. The Ley del Cine helps spread the risk and attract investors.”
Giraldo said all shooting was done on digital video and not film. Shooting digital kept production costs down and smaller digital cameras allowed the filmmaker to get unique angles and perspective that aren’t possible with larger and heavier equipment.
180 Segundos premiers in Colombia Friday and will be screened at international festivals later this year.