The Argentine streets are filled with tales, but none as intriguing as that of a young bushy-haired girl named Mafalda. With her unwavering drive to challenge and question societal norms, this beloved comic character has, for years, served as a reflection of the nation’s zeitgeist. As the era of digital streaming ushers in, Mafalda, along with her whimsical musings, is set to make her debut on Disney+ and Star+ platforms in a captivating docuseries titled “Rereading: Mafalda.”
The mastermind behind this culturally resonant character was Joaquin Salvador Lavado, popularly known as “Quino.” He breathed life into Mafalda six decades ago, albeit with an entirely different intent. Initially conceptualized as a subtle advertising mascot for electronic gadgets, Mafalda had a surprising destiny awaiting her. Rather than merely selling products, she began to address profound topics that ranged from the pitfalls of nuclear power, the looming concern of overpopulation, the intricacies of capitalism, to the unnerving grip of dictatorships. She became the voice of dissent, doused generously with kindness, and delivered with the sharpness and wit reminiscent of a child’s candid perspective.
Lorena Munoz, the visionary director helming the docuseries, expresses her admiration for Quino’s storytelling prowess. “What Quino masterfully achieved was crafting narratives through genuine human characters, primarily viewed from a child’s untainted perspective. These characters, in their innocent yet brutally honest ways, make profound statements. The seamless blend of humor and profound insights is what makes Mafalda’s world incredibly engaging,” Munoz remarked.
The two-hour-long docuseries delves deep into the nuanced universe Quino created. It aims to scrutinize the comic strips through a contemporary feminist prism, while also shedding light on its historical relevance. One of the significant timeframes the docuseries critically examines is Mafalda’s commentary on the military dictatorship era under Juan Carlos Ongania during the 1960s.
To enrich the viewing experience, “Rereading: Mafalda” incorporates insights from celebrated cartoonists and internationally renowned actors. It embarks on a nostalgic journey, retracing the initial sketches and sources of inspiration that led to the inception of iconic characters. Fans of the comic will be elated to see a more in-depth exploration of Mafalda’s vibrant circle of friends, including Susanita, Felipe, Libertad, and Manolito.
The universality of Mafalda’s appeal is undeniable. These comics have been translated into 28 distinct languages and have garnered a dedicated readership across the globe. The pandemic might have momentarily halted the series’ production, but its impact remains unscathed. This is evident from its nomination for the coveted title of the best documentary at the prestigious Canneseries Festival even before its official release.
Munoz, sharing her personal connection with the character, reflects on Mafalda’s global appeal. “While Mafalda is deeply rooted in Buenos Aires’ local culture, it’s astounding to witness its resonance across international boundaries. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the quiet corners of Scandinavia, people everywhere find a part of themselves in these characters.”
For Munoz, Mafalda is not just a comic character but a childhood companion that has been a part of her family’s life across generations. Residing merely a stone’s throw away from Quino’s former abode, she’s experienced the comic’s influence firsthand. She optimistically concludes, “This docuseries is not merely a retrospective. It’s a fresh interpretation, ensuring that Mafalda’s legacy continues to inspire and captivate newer audiences.”
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