DOCUMENTARY SERIES PROPOSAL
The Patí Català Legacy
In September 2023, the Americas Cup graced the waters of the coastal town of Vilanova i la Geltrú with its prestigious presence, drawing sailors and enthusiasts from all corners of the globe to witness a remarkable display of technological and modern sailing prowess. It was an enriching experience, one that helped us grasp the enduring value of our historical relationship with the Mediterranean Sea.
During those four unforgettable days, a unique exhibition of the Patí Català unfolded—a cherished boat whose legacy spans back to the turn of the century and which held a historic regatta in Vilanova back in 1942. That August, the Patí etched its place in history and defined the characteristics of the vessel that remain unchanged to this day.
The quaint and timeless Patí Català set sail once more, reclaiming its rightful place in history, but this time, with a global outreach. This unique convergence of sailing events and technologies created the perfect canvas for the documentary series I hereby proposed, offering a captivating juxtaposition of the past and present, tradition and innovation. It was an event that not only celebrated sailing's evolution but also helped us recognize the timeless resonance of our maritime heritage with the Mediterranean Sea.
Now that the Americas Cup Preliminary Regattas in Vilanova have concluded, it's evident that two worlds of sailing converged that weekend, laying the foundation for mutual support in the year ahead.
With Grant Dalton's plan to assemble 300 patíns during the official regattas in Barcelona next year, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment. It's an opportune time to create an audiovisual and visual content series that thrusts this traditional Catalan sailing ship into the global spotlight.
As we look forward, we recognize that the moment is right. By utilizing the extensive reach of the Americas Cup channels, we can spark the first international outreach around this cherished sailing tradition. Its with that idea in mind that I set out to create a documentary/Content series that will shed a light on this craft in the coming year.
This series will not only capture the beauty and artistry of patíns but also uncover the stories of those who've dedicated their lives to mastering this craft, revealing the passion, dedication, and untold narratives that breathe life into these vessels. It's an opportunity to share our Catalan maritime heritage with the world and foster a newfound appreciation for this unique form of rudderless sailing.
The intersection of tradition and innovation
The Mediterranean Sea has shaped the character of those brave sailors who ventured to navigate the waters in this vessel, and the connection they have with the sea and the wind is one of the fundamental pillars of this documentary proposal. Guided by their intuition and senses, the Patinaires rely on their deep connection to the boat and the wind and the waves to make these traditional vessels fly through the water.
Through the passions and testimonies of skippers, mestres d’aixa (shipwright masters), living legends, and new sailors, we will embark on a journey through the history and present of this emblematic vessel. In this project, we aim to merge Catalan traditions with the technology and cutting-edge advancements in sailing brought by the oldest sailing competition in the world, the Americas Cup, to our waters.
Witnessing the fusion of tradition and innovation, we will project the Patí Català globally like never before. This documentary seeks to capture a unique and historic event, creating a compelling narrative that shares the richness of the Patí Català's history with an international audience.
Through this documentary series, we will delve into the rich cultural significance of the Patí Català, its historical roots in Catalonia, and the passionate community of sailors and craftsmen who have kept the tradition alive.
The America's Cup, with its state-of-the-art yachts and advanced sailing techniques, will share the spotlight with the Patí Català boats, which have preserved their timeless design and navigation methods since their inception. This convergence of sailing events and technologies will serve as the ideal starting point for this series, offering an intriguing exploration of the intersection between the past and present, tradition and innovation.
A film about people, wind and sails
The documentary series will revolve around the historical regatta in Vilanova as a pivotal moment, serving as a gateway to explore the captivating world of the Patí Català. Through the perspectives of various key protagonists, we will uncover the deep-rooted history and the vibrant present of this unique sailing vessel.
Our characters will play essential roles in this narrative. A skilled and passionate Mestre d'aixa will guide us through the craftsmanship and artistry behind the construction of Patí Català, providing valuable insights into the traditional shipbuilding techniques passed down through generations.
We will introduce a young and ambitious skipper, eager to embrace the legacy of the Patí Català and carry it forward into the modern age. Witnessing their journey, we will see how this historic vessel continues to inspire and attract new generations of sailors.
An old seasoned patinaire will share their treasured memories and experiences, recounting tales of the Patí Català's legacy, and its significance in shaping the coastal culture of the region.
We will also emphasize and feature female patinaires, highlighting the growing inclusivity and diverse participation in this once-male-dominated realm of sailing.
To intertwine these stories with the Americas Cup, we would love to bring members of the prestigious Cup teams into the fold. Through this unique crossover, we will witness the meeting of tradition and innovation as these world-class sailors embark on an extraordinary experience aboard the Patí Català. Their awe and appreciation for the vessel's heritage will create a powerful and memorable moment, merging two vastly different worlds of sailing.
The documentary series will offer a compelling blend of captivating characters, profound emotions, and the timeless beauty of the Patí Català, creating a seamless narrative that captivates viewers, celebrating the rich heritage of this sailing marvel while bridging the gap between tradition and cutting-edge technology showcased in the Americas Cup.
Narrative and visual approach
The visual approach to the documentary series will center around the intimate and dynamic relationship between people, sails, and the sea. To capture this essence, we will employ close-up shots and more intimate frames during the storytelling segments, focusing on the skippers and their vessels. These shots will convey the organic connection between the sailors and their Patí Català, as they skillfully maneuver by shifting their weight across the deck to commandeer the boat.
The scenes featuring the mestre d'aixa crafting the boat will showcase the artisanal process, highlighting the skill and dedication that goes into creating these unique vessels. We will follow the creation of a special boat, perhaps intended for a newcomer or a member of the New Zealand team, forging a strong emotional connection between the character and the vessel.
In pursuit of a more cinematic feel, we will utilize action cams to capture engaging angles that immerse the audience in the sailing experience. Chase boat sequences will provide a closer and more involved perspective, allowing us to witness the protagonists sailing solo and participating in regattas, including the one in Vilanova, which will be extensively covered.
The editing process will be instrumental in crafting a compelling narrative. We will intertwine the stories of the characters, following a three-act structure that brings together the rich history of the Patí Català, the passion of its skippers, and the allure of the Americas Cup. This crossing of paths will generate the narrative punch that captures the essence of each epidosed of the documentary series and gives us a common thread to bind all episodes together, celebrating the tradition and innovation in the world of sailing.
This is a first proposal of a series of episodes that could be explored. It is a first brainstorming session of possible characters and themes to explore in order to generate an interesting and evolving series that will capture the viewers imagination from the get go
Episode 1: "Setting Sail into the Past"
Introduce the series, host, and the significance of the Patí Català.
Character: An elder sailor who has witnessed the evolution of the Patí.
Explore historical footage, family stories, and the impact of the 1942 regatta.
Episode 2: "A Dance on the Waves"
Delve into the artistry of sailing Patí Català.
Character: A remarkable blind patinaire who defies expectations.
Explore the sensory experience of sailing, relying on touch, sound, and intuition.
Showcase how this individual has mastered the dance on the waves through resilience and passion.
Include interviews with the blind sailor, exploring their unique perspective on sailing and the Patí Català.
Emphasize the universal nature of the connection between humans and the sea, transcending visual abilities.Episode 3: "Blending Old and New"
Episode 3: "Blending Old and New"
Spotlight on the craftsmanship behind Patí Català.
Character: An Italian boat maker who ventures into the world of traditional Catalan boat crafting.
Explore the challenges and beauty of adapting skills from a different boat-making tradition.
Showcase the process of creating a Patí, blending Italian and Catalan influences.
Interviews with the boat maker about the allure of the Patí Català and the fusion of two maritime cultures.
Capture the unique perspective of an outsider contributing to the preservation of a traditional craft.
Conclude with the completed Patí and its symbolic representation of cultural exchange.
This episode adds a cross-cultural dimension to the series, emphasizing the universal language of craftsmanship and the melding of different maritime traditions.
Episode 4: "Sailing Sisters"
Focus on the empowering role of Patí Català in the lives of women.
Primary Character: A 16-year-old girl challenging stereotypes as a passionate Patí sailor.
Explore her journey into sailing, her convictions about women's role in the sport, and breaking gender norms.
Interviews with her discussing the positive impact of sailing on her life and identity.
Secondary Character: A woman in her sixties who recently discovered Patí and found it to be a source of feminine expression.
Delve into her story of late-life discovery, how sailing on the Patí became an integral part of her identity.
Highlight the sense of community and empowerment among women in Patí sailing.
Conclude with a celebration of the diversity of female voices in the Patí Català community.
Episode 5: "Jazz on the Waves"
Explore the intriguing connection between Patí Català and jazz.
Primary Characters: Patinaires with Patí names inspired by jazz songs or musicians.
Dive into the stories behind the naming choices and how they resonate with the spirit of jazz.
Interview a Patinaire who is also a jazz musician, drawing parallels between jazz improvisation and sailing.
Capture the essence of sailing as a rhythmic dance with the waves, where the sailor plays the ocean like a musical instrument.
Showcase the unique and creative ways Patinaires express their love for both jazz and sailing.
Conclude by highlighting the harmony between the improvisational nature of jazz and the fluidity of sailing on the Patí Català.
Episode 6: "Sailing Legacies"
Uncover Patí traditions passed down through generations.
Characters: Families with deep Patí connections sharing their stories.
Emphasize the familial bonds and the cultural legacy of Patí Català.
Episode 7: "Nautical Adventures"
Journey along the Catalan coast to explore different Patí communities.
Character: A sailor navigating various regions, sharing experiences.
Showcase the diversity of regional variations and unique sailing adventures.
Episode 8: "The Skilled Artisans"
Shed light on the craftsmanship of building and maintaining Patí boats.
Character: A skilled boat builder and restorer revealing the artistry involved.
Explore workshops, restoration projects, and the dedication of these artisans.
Episode 9: "Sailing with the Cup"
Discuss the Patí Català's role in the Americas Cup.
Characters: Key figures involved in organizing the Americas Cup Patí Regatta.
Highlight the historical connection and the significance of this prestigious event.
Episode 10: "The Essence of Patí Català"
Summarize the series, reflect on the unique connection between sailor, Patí, and the sea.
Characters: All the characters featured throughout the series sharing final thoughts.
Conclude the journey, emphasizing the enduring allure and cultural importance of Patí Català.
Come aboard and help us bring this extraordinary story to life. Let's celebrate the legacy of the Patí Català and its impact on the world of sailing, inspiring generations to come. Together, we will chart new horizons, reaching a global audience and leaving an indelible mark on the world of filmmaking and sailing history. Join us on this remarkable voyage, and let's make history together!
This Project already has the support of
As a passionate filmmaker, I find myself standing at the crossroads of two magnificent sailing spectacles—the upcoming America's Cup and the historic Patí Català exhibition. The stage is set, and the winds of change are about to sweep over Vilanova i la Geltrú, Catalonia. I invite you on an extraordinary cinematic journey that will intertwine the rich history of both sailing races, with a special focus on the iconic Patí Català.
I believe that this documentary has the potential to capture the hearts of sailing enthusiasts and history aficionados alike, as we showcase the profound relationship between people, sails, and the vast sea. By utilizing dynamic and visually rich cinematography, we aspire to create an engaging cinematic experience that truly reflects the spirit of these extraordinary sailors and their iconic boats.
However, to bring this ambitious project to life, I need your support. We are calling on all sailing enthusiasts, history lovers, and individuals who share a passion for storytelling to join us in making this documentary a reality. Your involvement, whether through financial contributions, sharing our project with your network, or spreading the word about our campaign, will play a crucial role in shaping this remarkable journey.
Together, we can preserve the legacy of the Patí Català, celebrate its timeless significance, and share this captivating narrative with the world. Join us in this thrilling adventure, and together, let's sail into uncharted waters and create a documentary that will inspire generations to come.
Support "Sailing Frontiers: The Patí Català and the Americas Cup Connection" and become a part of this extraordinary voyage. Together, we can make history and showcase the beauty of sailing traditions to a global audience. Thank you for being a part of this exciting journey with us.
All content, ideas, and concepts presented on this page are the intellectual property of Jan Latussek. Unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution of any part of this material, including but not limited to the project's concept, narrative, and visuals, is strictly prohibited without prior written permission.
JanLatussek© [2024]. All rights reserved.