Buffalo Kids Film Inspired by Nicolás' Heartbreaking Story

In the world of cinema, stories often emerge from the most profound experiences, and the film "Buffalo Kids" is no exception. This heartwarming movie, co-written and produced by Jordi Gasull, is inspired by the life of a young boy named Nicolás, who tragically passed away shortly after the film was greenlit. Nicolás, who had cerebral palsy, served as the inspiration for the character Nick, an orphan who embarks on a journey with two other children, Mary and Tom, in search of their uncle.

The film beautifully captures the bond between siblings, particularly the relationship between Nick and Mary, which mirrors the real-life connection Nicolás had with his sister, Alejandra. In a recent interview, Gasull shared the emotional moment when he informed Nicolás about the film's approval, stating, "I told him 'We have the green light!' and 15 days later, Nicolás died." This poignant revelation highlights the bittersweet nature of the film's creation.

Co-director Pedro Solís García's son, Nicolás, was non-verbal, which posed a unique challenge for the screenwriters. Gasull recalled how they initially wrote a version of the screenplay where Nick spoke. However, Pedro insisted, "No, no, no, this cannot be. My kid didn’t speak. You have to write a character that speaks with his eyes." This feedback led Gasull to conduct research and watch videos of Nicolás, ultimately resulting in a script that authentically represented the character's experience.

When discussing the reception of the film during its pitching phase, Gasull noted that they faced no discrimination regarding the portrayal of disability. Instead, he received positive feedback, with many praising the story's simplicity and the strength of its characters. He remarked, "They thought it was risky for audiences but nobody told me 'This is not a likable character.' It was actually the reverse. They told me the script is beautiful." This response underscores the importance of authentic storytelling in cinema.

Interestingly, "Buffalo Kids" also incorporates a personal experience of Gasull's, where his car collided with a buffalo, adding another layer of depth to the narrative. The film was officially released on October 11, and it has already begun to resonate with audiences.

"Buffalo Kids" is more than just a film; it is a tribute to the resilience of children facing challenges and the bonds that unite them. It serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling to bring awareness to important issues, such as disability, while also celebrating the beauty of human connections. As viewers engage with this touching narrative, they are invited to reflect on their own relationships and the stories that shape their lives.