Penelope Cruz Sanchez was tapped for the National Cinematography Award for 2022, following a jury session scheduled for Monday. This prize, conferred annually by the Ministry of Culture and Sports, carries a prize of 30,000 Euros. The jury’s choice was unanimous, recognizing the actress for the remarkable achievements she delivered in 2021 and for joining a circle of artists whose work sits in a special orbit of international acclaim. The award underscores a career defined by fearless choice, sustained excellence, and a lasting impact on Spanish cinema that resonates beyond borders.
Last year she became the first Spanish actress to win the Volpi Cup at the Venice Film Festival, a moment that elevated her status to a record of multiple nominations and cemented her place among the most celebrated performers of her generation. This recognition sits alongside her ongoing Oscar journey, as her fourth nomination reinforces her standing as one of the most nominated Spanish actresses in cinema history. The jury also noted other honors that have recognized her broad talent, including roles beside her co-stars in Volver, which earned awards for Best Female Performance and Best Supporting Actress at major film events, the honorary Cesar, the Donostia Prize in San Sebastián, and thirteen Goya nominations, three of them associated with different performances. These accomplishments collectively map a career marked by versatility, collaboration with leading filmmakers, and a sustained contribution to the world of Spanish cinema.
The jury highlighted Penelope Cruz as a central figure of a generation that emerged in the 1990s and helped renew Spanish cinema through participation in many iconic and internationally recognized films. Since then, her talent and adaptability have opened doors for collaborations with filmmakers from around the globe, while also strengthening a deep and enduring bond with Spanish film culture. She is described as deeply committed to her craft, continually pursuing excellence in every project she undertakes. This drive has produced some of the most memorable roles in the history of Spanish cinema, and it is praised as a defining factor of her legacy. For these reasons, the jury frames Penelope Cruz as a quintessential actress whose luminous career enriches the cultural heritage of Spain and serves as an inspiration for future generations of performers. These statements were issued to accompany the official recognition and reflect the broader impact of her work on audiences and the industry at large.