What does receiving a Lucentum Award signify for a career?
It is a genuine honor to be in Alicante during the Alicante Festival, accepting a lifetime achievement award after more than twenty-five years in the industry. The feeling is a bit surreal—looking back, the body of work may not seem large, yet the long journey has proven meaningful enough to deserve this recognition. The sentiment is one of quiet gratitude and a sense of responsibility that comes with such an honor.
Several weeks earlier, a meeting with Ximo Puig took place, with conversations touching on the state of the City of Light. The question arises: what is the view on those studies? The answer is simple: the work on the City of Light is outstanding. For anyone who has seen how the film business operates, it is clear that a remarkable level of craftsmanship goes into every production there. The facilities had been closed for a period but have since reopened, offering a renewed space for creative projects.
Is there a desire to use these resources in future plans? The artist has always shown a strong connection to this region. Having family roots in Santa Pola for more than two decades strengthens this bond. The aim is to explore opportunities locally while also considering the next feature film project that may require relocating more often to the Valencian Community, expanding the practical reasons to work there.
Regarding timing, a rough horizon is considered: there is a possibility to begin shooting within around a year, suggesting a practical but flexible schedule rather than a fixed deadline.
The discussion also touches on the work titled Thesis, the artist’s first project. If given a chance to revisit it today, what might be done differently? Looking back reveals scenes that felt difficult to watch at times. A recent screening of Open Your Eyes at Cineteca de Madrid remains a frequent point of reflection. Retouching a film does not always mean simply upgrading it; sometimes the original tension is what matters most. Thesis continues to give great satisfaction, and over the years it has preserved its intensity. If networks and connectivity had existed at the time, a few narrative choices might have shifted to reflect those technological realities.
When asked whether there is a preferred genre, the response is pragmatic: there is no single fixed lane. While there are genres that resonate more as a viewer, the director often sees opportunities beyond a single style. An affinity for Hitchcock-like storytelling exists, yet life and the surrounding world inevitably pull the work toward different forms. Romantic comedy is not appealing due to a skepticism about love’s mystification, but almost any other genre remains a possibility.
Looking toward Spanish cinema, the future is shaped by digital platforms and the shifting patterns of audience engagement. The pandemic accelerated change, and streaming became a more central piece of how films are funded, produced, and distributed. Today, many projects involve platform involvement right from the development stage, underscoring the evolving landscape of film financing and collaboration.
What does this shift mean for the industry? It means a broad network of professionals across the country is bringing fresh energy to cinema. Talent is abundant, with notable contributions from women who are taking on key roles in cinematography, direction, and other essential positions. The field remains a dynamic space where gender representation continues to improve, though progress can be uneven and ongoing.
Is the Spanish cinema world moving toward greater visibility for different sexual orientations and gender identities? The journey is ongoing, reflecting broader social progress. Debates around feminism, identity, and inclusion persist, yet there is a concerted effort to elevate diverse voices. Personally, the filmmaker notes that personal stories can transcend labels, choosing honesty over autobiography when it comes to film subjects. The aim is to be authentic and visible without forcing a specific narrative on the screen.
“Looks like we’re on the road to autocracy”
The cinema world often mirrors the social and political climate. The Lucentum Award ceremony, honoring figures such as Karra Elejalde and Nathalie Poza, touched on themes tied to contemporary politics. Does the national surge of Vox influence how these themes appear on screen? The response highlights a long-standing concern with cycles of history. The director cites Ágora, a film exploring recurring historical patterns and the way crowds shape events. The film’s resonance extends to episodes in recent years, including violent upheavals and the contrasting dynamics of public discourse. History’s cycles invite a reflection on democracy and the responsibilities of filmmakers within a complex society. As long as conflict persists, the conversation around art, politics, and freedom remains vital.
Do global patterns suggest history repeats itself? The perspective extends beyond borders. The current era in the United States, with the Capitol attack and the rise of certain movements, is seen as a cautionary tale about democracy and autocratic tendencies. While different contexts exist, the underlying message is clear: democratic systems require vigilance, dialogue, and inclusive storytelling that captures diverse experiences without surrendering critical thought.