The 39th Goya Awards, often referred to as Spain's version of the Oscars, concluded in a thrilling tie between two remarkable films. Marcel Barrena’s historical drama El 47 and Arantxa Echevarría’s intense thriller Undercover shared the prestigious Best Film award. The ceremony, held in Granada, celebrated an array of cinematic achievements, with several films receiving accolades for their outstanding contributions. Notably, Eduard Fernández won Best Actor for his role in Marco, while Isaki Lacuesta and Pol Rodríguez took home the Best Director award for Saturn Return. The night also honored international talent, including Richard Gere, who received the International Goya honor.
This year's Goya Awards highlighted the diversity and depth of Spanish cinema, showcasing both established and emerging filmmakers. The competition was fierce, with many categories witnessing close calls. El 47 led with 16 nominations but ultimately secured five wins, including supporting acting honors. Meanwhile, Undercover garnered attention for its portrayal of a police officer infiltrating a terrorist group. Pedro Almodóvar’s The Room Next Door, despite 13 nominations, won only one for Best Adapted Screenplay. Additionally, the Best European Film went to Jacques Audiard’s Emilia Pérez, a French production that did not qualify for other Goya categories.
Historical Drama and Thriller Triumphs
The dual winners of the Best Film category, El 47 and Undercover, represent distinct yet compelling narratives. El 47 tells the story of a bus driver instrumental in shaping modern Barcelona, while Undercover delves into the tense world of a policewoman infiltrating the ETA terrorist organization. Both films exemplify the richness of storytelling in contemporary Spanish cinema. Salva Reina and Clara Segura were recognized for their supporting roles in El 47, adding depth to the film’s portrayal of historical events.
El 47 entered the awards with 16 nominations, reflecting its widespread acclaim. The film’s success underscores the importance of true-life dramas in capturing the essence of societal transformation. Its narrative highlights the pivotal role of ordinary individuals in creating significant change. The film’s five trophies, including those for supporting actors, signify the ensemble's strong performances. On the other hand, Undercover captivated audiences with its gripping plot and Carolina Yuste’s portrayal of a courageous policewoman. The film’s win for Best Actress further emphasizes the power of character-driven storytelling in thrillers.
Celebrating Directors and Actors
The Goya Awards also spotlighted exceptional direction and acting. Eduard Fernández’s portrayal of Enric Marco in Marco earned him the Best Actor award. His nuanced performance brought to life the complex character of a trade unionist whose fabricated past sparked controversy. Meanwhile, Isaki Lacuesta and Pol Rodríguez’s direction in Saturn Return was lauded for its innovative approach to biographical storytelling. Their work on this 1990s-set film about the indie rock band Los Planetas showcased the duo’s ability to blend history with music seamlessly.
Pedro Almodóvar, one of Spain’s most renowned filmmakers, received a nomination for his English-language debut The Room Next Door. Although the film won only one award for Best Adapted Screenplay, it demonstrated Almodóvar’s versatility in tackling different languages and genres. The night also honored international contributions, with Richard Gere receiving the International Goya honor for his enduring impact on global cinema. Additionally, the Best European Film award went to Jacques Audiard’s Emilia Pérez, a French musical that garnered critical acclaim. Despite controversies surrounding some nominees, the Goya Awards celebrated the vibrant and diverse landscape of Spanish and international cinema.