Javier Bardem took center stage in Madrid this Thursday to present his new film, Lilo, my friend the crocodile. This marked his first foray into family cinema and underscored the vitality of the Spanish industry, which celebrated its inaugural edition of the film festival in honor of Spanish Cinema Day, drawing comparisons with the American market.
Bardem spoke with Europa Press about the state of Spanish cinema, noting that it produces work of very high quality and has delivered a remarkable harvest this year. He emphasized that every film industry has its successes and its misses, yet the Spanish sector generates significant business and contributes substantial revenue. He urged continued support for the industry, highlighting its economic and cultural value and its role in sustaining creative employment across the country.
The actor explained that he accepted the project, slated for release on October 21, because his children wanted to see him at work. He also found meaning in the involvement of his late mother, Pilar Bardem, who passed away in 2021, and who participates in family films, resonating deeply with the family life at the heart of the project.
Bardem added that the decision aligned with the wishes of his children and his mother. He described the material as fun, inspiring, and terrifying in its ambition to build a musical experience. He admitted a touch of fear about venturing into musical territory but felt compelled to take on the challenge. His portrayal of Héctor Valenti centers on a character who seeks to reach audiences through art, music, dance, and magic, and Bardem delighted in that facet of the role, calling it an enjoyable and liberating experience.
At the same time, Bardem clarified that directing a film remains off his plate for now. He candidly explained that stepping into the director’s chair is intimidating because it involves coordinating many people and making countless decisions. He warned that starting a project can drain the energy from a performer’s creative instincts and doubted his ability to manage two demanding roles simultaneously, even though the door to directing is not permanently closed.
In Madrid, Bardem also addressed the question of naming a potential successor from among Spanish actors who might carry a baton into Hollywood. He chose not to single anyone out, saying that naming names would overlook many other talented performers and would not be fair to them. He preferred to let the discussion stay with the broader truth of the industry rather than spotlight a single individual.
ANA DE ARMAS AND THE ROLE OF BLONDE
Transitioning to international talent, the conversation turned to Ana de Armas and her acclaimed work in Hollywood, especially her portrayal of Marilyn Monroe in the film Blonde. Bardem praised her performance, noting the immense pressure of playing such an iconic American figure and the challenge of delivering a credible performance as a non-American actress with a robust track record. He acknowledged that the role tests even the most seasoned actors, underscoring the gravity of stepping into a cultural icon with global expectations.
Bardem went on to commend Ana de Armas for the precision, realism, and vibrant creativity she brings to her craft. He described her work as remarkable and expressed admiration for the energy she channels into her portrayals. He remarked on the authenticity she brings to each scene and lauded the way she handles the demanding task of reviving a historical legend on screen.