Amaya Muruzábal and Vico Films Collaborate on 'The Patricios' Series

In a significant move for historical storytelling in television, Amaya Muruzábal’s M Content has partnered with Ireland's Vico Films to develop 'The Patricios,' an epic series that delves into the complexities of the U.S.–Mexico War during 1846. Directed by Julián de Tavira, known for his work on 'Hernán' and 'Like Water for Chocolate,' this series will follow the Saint Patrick’s Battalion, comprising Irish immigrants who enlisted in the Texas Rangers and ultimately deserted to join the Mexican side (Variety, 2025).

The project highlights a lesser-known narrative that not only explores themes of identity, justice, and migration but also seeks to bridge cultural divides between Ireland and Mexico. Muruzábal described 'The Patricios' as a story relevant to contemporary discussions about culture and belonging, stating, "It is not just a story from the past, but a deeply relevant exploration... that continues to define the United States" (Variety, 2025).

Amaya Muruzábal, the creative force behind Amazon Studios' successful series 'Red Queen,' emphasized the significance of this international co-production, noting that while the primary language will be English, Spanish will be integrated throughout the narrative. The creative team seeks to position 'The Patricios' as a landmark series appealing to audiences across Europe, the United States, and Mexico (Variety, 2025).

The series draws on the consulting of Italian author Pino Cacucci, whose novel 'San Patrick's Battalion' serves as a foundational text for the storyline. Cormac Fox, a partner at Vico Films, commented on the narrative's heart, stating, "This true story is about a group of Irish soldiers who chose conscience over allegiance, uniting with those they were sent to fight" (Variety, 2025). This perspective underlines the ongoing relevance of moral choice in a world often divided by conflicts.

Vico Films, established over two decades ago, has garnered acclaim as one of Ireland's foremost production houses, with a strong portfolio that includes the BBC comedy 'The Young Offenders' and the psychological thriller 'Dead & Buried' (Variety, 2025). The collaboration aims to present a multifaceted narrative that resonates across cultural boundaries, aiming to raise questions about the state of the world today.

Currently, Muruzábal and her team are actively seeking partners for 'The Patricios' at the Conecta Fiction & Entertainment festival in Cuenca, Spain, which runs from June 16-19, 2025. They are particularly focused on securing collaboration with stakeholders in the U.S., Mexico, and Germany to realize their vision for a transnational series (Variety, 2025).

The historical context of the Saint Patrick's Battalion adds depth to the series, as these soldiers faced dire consequences for their choices, ultimately culminating in their capture and execution after a valiant stand at San Ángel. The narrative not only serves as a reminder of the complexities of allegiance but also reflects on contemporary issues of migration and national identity. As the series progresses through its development, it aims to captivate audiences with a narrative that is both enlightening and thought-provoking, shedding light on a chapter of history that remains relevant today.