Can you tell us about your latest film project and the process you went through in bringing it to life?

The idea actually started more than three years ago in my head. Two years ago, I wrote the script for the feature film. Last year, since I wasn’t able to sell it, I decided to adapt the idea into a short film and carry it out on my own.

 

What inspired you to become a filmmaker and pursue a career in the film industry?

Necessity. I enjoy directing, but at this stage of my life, I want to focus on acting, and later on, balance both.

 

What challenges did you encounter during the filmmaking process and how did you overcome them?

I was very clear about what I wanted, so I didn’t encounter many obstacles. The biggest challenge, apart from financial constraints, was coordinating schedules with my colleague Javi, as he was involved in several projects at the same time.

 

What was the most memorable moment for you during the production of your film?

Does filming at zero degrees, in the fog, wearing only a short-sleeved shirt and shorts count as a memorable moment?

 

 Can you share any interesting anecdotes or behind-the-scenes stories from the making of your film?

I always tell the same story. At the end of the shoot, during the very last shot of the day, the still photographer made a sudden gesture to encourage one of the extra actresses to bring more energy. Unfortunately, his hand accidentally hit Fátima’s eye as she was crouching to watch the take, leaving her unable to see for a while. It was an unfortunate incident, but luckily, it wasn’t serious.

 

How do you approach storytelling in your films? What themes or messages do you try to convey?

In my scripts, I like to talk about values—values that I consider fundamental in human beings and that would help us become a better society. I also try to make my stories very realistic and closely connected to the world around us, avoiding extreme fantasy. In our daily lives, things happen that worry us, scare us, or make us happy, and they don’t have to be spectacular to be meaningful.

What is your preferred genre of filmmaking and why? Are there any specific directors or filmmakers who have influenced your work?

I could say I enjoy all genres except horror and excessively gory films. Drama, action, crime, westerns… If a movie is well-structured and the performances are strong and coherent, I will watch it. As for directors, Clint Eastwood and Rodrigo Sorogoyen have been some of my biggest influences.

 

How do you select your cast and crew for your film projects? What qualities do you look for in collaborators?

This time, I had the cast in mind while I was writing the script. I suppose that for future productions, I might not be able to rely only on people I know and will have to conduct casting sessions, but I can’t say for sure yet.

 

How important do you think film festivals are for independent filmmakers, and what has been your experience with film festivals so far?

I believe film festivals are very important for showcasing our work. They not only help reach audiences but also attract production companies that might be interested in your idea, your talent as an actor, or both. Distributors may also want to market your work. I think everyone benefits. However, it also seems like without awards, a project doesn’t hold much value nowadays, and winning prizes definitely helps add weight to your project.

 

Can you tell us about any awards or recognition your films have received and how they have impacted your career?

Our project is just starting its journey in festivals, but this very week, I won the award for Best Actor, and we were finalists for Best Short Film at the ISSFA Festival.

 

How do you handle feedback and criticism of your films? How do you use it to improve your craft?

I like listening to everyone because the work is the same for all, but interpretations and perspectives are infinite. There is always some truth in how a person perceives a film at any given moment. I take note of interesting feedback for future projects.

 

What do you enjoy most about the process of filmmaking? Is there anything you find particularly challenging?

This was my first short film, and I was also the actor, screenwriter, and producer. Balancing so many roles—switching from directing to acting in a matter of seconds without losing focus—was something I really enjoyed. But what I liked the most was the team atmosphere I managed to create. The respect, the concentration, and the effort from everyone to bring the idea to life were truly special. 

 

How do you approach the distribution of your films? What strategies do you employ to reach a wider audience?

Once a week, I analyze newly available festivals and evaluate the destination country, the festival’s prestige, and the entry fee.

 

What advice do you have for aspiring filmmakers who are just starting their journey in the film industry?

Like everything, step by step. Have a clear idea, find a good team, be aware that it will cost you money, be patient, and if it doesn’t work out the first time, keep making as many projects as you need to keep improving.

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Finally, can you share with us your future plans and upcoming projects as a filmmaker?

For now, I will focus on the distribution of this project. It takes a lot of energy when you’re doing most of the work yourself. But I have more scripts in my drawer, so at some point, I will take the next step.