Netflix has begun production on its new biopic boxing film, starring Miguel Herrán, which will chronicle the life of boxing legend Policarpo “Poli” Díaz. Filming is taking place across Madrid and Segovia.
The movie is inspired by the life of the famed “Colt from Vallecas” and is directed by Daniel Calparsoro. Calparsoro has previously collaborated with Netflix on the 2018 film The Warning and Centauro, as well as working with Herrán on the 2021 movie Sky High and its subsequent series two years later.
Herrán is best known for his role as Aníbal Cortés, also known as Rio, in Netflix’s global hit series Money Heist. His other credits include Prison 77, Nothing in Return, and Los Farad.
Based on true events, the story follows Poli Díaz, a young man from Vallecas who overcame a childhood marked by poverty and domestic violence to become a boxing sensation in 1980s Spain, eventually earning a shot at the world lightweight title. As fame and fortune arrive, however, he becomes entangled in a life of excess, where drugs and reckless choices threaten to undo everything he has achieved. The film presents a gripping tale of triumph and downfall, showing Poli’s greatest battle: facing himself.
Netflix has consistently leaned on Money Heist alumni for new projects since the series concluded, with many cast and crew members moving on to lead their own Netflix films and series. Herrán has appeared in several recent Netflix projects, including Sky High, Elite, and the limited series Bank Under Siege.
To mark the start of production, Netflix released a 30-second teaser on its Spanish YouTube channel. Director Daniel Calparsoro said in a statement (translated into English via Google Translate), “This is a fast-paced story about the struggle of a young man who comes from nowhere, a boxer who reaches the top of the sport and fame, but lacks the cultural and emotional tools to manage his success. It’s the story of a young man facing his demons who became the people’s champion, a symbol of overcoming obstacles.”
The film is produced by Alea Media, with Aitor Gabilondo (Salvador, Patria) serving as executive producer alongside Calparsoro. The screenplay is written by Carlos Franco, with cinematography by Tommie Ferreras.