Mubi to Stream Rodrigo Sorogoyen’s “The New Years” Globally

Mubi, the renowned global distributor, streaming service, and film producer, has secured the highly anticipated romantic drama series, “The New Years” (original title: “Los años nuevos”), by acclaimed Spanish filmmaker Rodrigo Sorogoyen. This significant acquisition grants Mubi distribution rights across a wide array of territories, including North America, Latin America, the U.K., Ireland, the Netherlands, Turkey, Australia, New Zealand, and India. The 10-part series is slated to premiere on Mubi on December 3, 2025, starting with a double episode, followed by weekly releases.

This landmark deal marks a notable expansion for Mubi, representing its first foray into distributing a Spanish series. For Movistar Plus+, the Spanish pay TV and SVOD operator that originally co-produced the series, it stands as one of its most substantial multi-territory licensing agreements to date. The acquisition underscores Mubi’s strategic commitment to bringing curated, director-driven content to its global audience, reinforcing its position as a key player in the arthouse and independent cinema landscape.

A Deep Dive into “The New Years”

Co-created and co-directed by the César Award-winning Rodrigo Sorogoyen, known for his intense thrillers and dramas, “The New Years” offers a more intimate yet equally compelling narrative. The series was also crafted by Paula Fabra and Sara Cano, who contributed significantly to the writing team. The story centers on Ana, portrayed by Iria Del Río, and Óscar, played by Francesco Carril. Their journey begins on the pivotal night they both turn 30, initiating a decade-long exploration of their evolving relationship through nine subsequent New Year’s Eves.

The narrative deftly sketches their contrasting lives at the outset: Ana, living in a shared apartment and dissatisfied with her job, navigates a fluid social circle, while Óscar is a doctor with a stable career and loyal friends. Their meeting sparks an unexpected romance, setting the stage for an honest examination of modern commitment. The series meticulously captures a single night in each of the ten consecutive years, revealing how love shifts, endures, and challenges individuals to continually choose their partner.

Rodrigo Sorogoyen: A Visionary Behind the Lens

Rodrigo Sorogoyen has emerged as a formidable force in European cinema over the last decade, consistently delivering critically acclaimed works. His short film “Madre” garnered an Oscar nomination in 2019, showcasing his talent for crafting impactful narratives. More recently, his feature film “The Beasts” earned him a César Award for Best Foreign Film in 2023, triumphing over several prominent films from the Cannes Festival. Sorogoyen’s directorial style is often characterized by its gripping tension and psychological depth, qualities that critics suggest are applied to “The New Years” in a unique, more introspective manner. He is currently working on his next fiction feature, “The Beloved,” starring Javier Bardem.

The Cinematic Craft and Thematic Depth

“The New Years” distinguishes itself through its innovative structure and cinematic approach. Sorogoyen reportedly shot the series with a theatrical sensibility, likening its structure to “The Best of Youth,” an epic Italian film that spans decades. The series is divided into two halves, each resembling a feature film in length. Each episode is designed to offer a distinct tone and sub-genre, ranging from the romantic “cute-meet” of the first episode to moments of family drama, and even a horror-tinged confrontation later in the series.

At its core, “The New Years” delves into the common paradoxes of relationships. The very qualities that draw Ana and Óscar together – her spontaneity and ability to live in the moment versus his stability – also pose the greatest threats to their enduring connection. The series also meticulously charts Ana’s personal growth, as she evolves from a disoriented youth struggling to find her path to a more self-assured individual. A central question throughout the series is whether this personal journey will ultimately align with a future alongside Óscar.

Critical Acclaim and Anticipation

“The New Years” made its world premiere at the 81st Venice Film Festival in September 2024, an event that also featured new series from acclaimed directors like Alfonso Cuarón and Thomas Vinterberg. The series has already received significant praise from Spanish journalists, with some hailing it as one of the best series of the year. Reviews commend its authentic portrayal of relationships, its meticulously structured script, and the compelling performances by Iria Del Río and Francesco Carril. These early positive reactions from its festival screenings and initial Spanish broadcast on Movistar Plus+ build considerable anticipation for its global debut on Mubi.

Conclusion

Mubi’s acquisition of Rodrigo Sorogoyen’s “The New Years” represents a significant moment for the platform and for fans of sophisticated, character-driven storytelling. As Mubi continues to expand its reach and diversify its curated offerings, this romantic drama series stands out as a powerful addition. With its compelling narrative, acclaimed creators, and strong critical reception, “The New Years” is poised to captivate audiences across North America, Latin America, the U.K., Australia, and beyond, inviting viewers to reflect on the complexities of love, commitment, and personal evolution over the passage of time.