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Spanish Cinema

By Laura Ellis

Cinema from the Hispanic world, particularly originating in Spain, has always had a place in modern culture, clearly demonstrating an important international role. It is most often categorised for its ground breaking ideas and themes, as well as production, and thus one could easily assert the idea that it must hold second place to English spoken productions in worldwide significance. Furthermore, one can note the changing role, fluctuating between entertainment as well as a means of propaganda during the Franco regime.

One thing to note when looking at Spanish cinema within Spain itself is the use of dubbing. Although 10 to 20% of box office sales made do come from authentic Spanish cinema, the rest is generated from international films, thus are dubbed or come with subtitles, allowing the Spanish audience to see an important mix of cultures. It has been stated also that the vast majority of profits within Spanish cinema each year come from only five to ten major films, thus indicating the small scale of this industry. Furthermore, there are examples of films produced, starring Spaniards and filmed in Spain, for example Vicky Cristina Barcelona, which are in fact in the majority English spoken. However, it is clear to see the importance of authentic Hispanic cinema due to its prevalence worldwide. Spanish spoken films are becoming more and more popular, as seen in the popularity and significance of Pan’s labyrinth and Volver, which have become renowned worldwide, whilst still maintaining their original Spanish dialogue, thus showing a dramatic shift in consumer desires.

When looking at cinema produced by Spain, one must first consider the important Spanish directors that create these works. Pedro Almodóvar is a primary example of the influence that a good director can have, his main themes including desire, identity, passion and family, and it is through these controversial ideas in his 18 films that he has gained international acclaim in the world of cinema. Furthermore, he founded the production company El Deseo S.A. with his brother, which is now responsible for all of Almodóvar’s films. Another leading director to take into account is Alejandro Amenábar, after a short lived attempt at studying cinematography at the Universidad Complutense in Madrid, this director went on to win prizes such as the Grand Prix of the Jury in 2004 at the International Venice Film Festival for Mar Adentro. Furthermore, as well as directing and writing his own films, Amenábar is famed for his film scores and has been nominated for many notable prizes such as the Goya awards.

Spanish actors are undoubtedly famed throughout the world for both their Spanish and foreign input. Antonio Banderas is a particular example of worldwide fame, as his role in many films; both Spanish and English have allowed a very international input. One could argue that in fact he is equally as popular in both Spain and around the world, as his roles in films such as Shrek and The Mask of Zorro only rival performances such as ¡Átame! and La Ley del deseo. In addition, he is now known for his work as a film producer and director, something for which he is gaining more and more recognition. Another important Spanish actor to consider as regards international fame is Penelope Cruz. Despite continually fluctuating between Spanish and English language films, Cruz’s importance is noted in both, with epics such as Los Abrazos Rotos and Todo Sobre mi Madre being just as influential as Vanilla Sky and Captain Correlli’s Mandolin. Furthermore, Cruz has also made headway within the Italian market, with films including Non Ti Muovere.

Spain is also known for its large scale festivals, rivalling Cannes in their importance in showcasing new talent. The most significant is that of the San Sebastian International Film festival, taking place in the North of Spain every year since 1953, and is renowned worldwide as the most popular Spanish film festival, having been attended by stars such as Alfred Hitchcock and Audrey Hepburn. The Festival Internacional de Cinema de Catalunya dates back to 1967, and is now considered amongst the top European events, especially as regards science fiction for which it is highly renowned.

El cine - cinema

Película - film

Festival - festival

Actor/actriz – actor/actress

Hispanohablante – Spanish spoken

Director/a - director

Doblaje – dubbing

Fama – fame

Deseos del consumo – consumer desires

Productor/a - producer



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