Film and TV

Understanding Spanish Film and TV

  • Spanish cinema is recognised worldwide, creating some internationally acclaimed movies and directors.
  • Make note of popular directors such as Pedro Almodóvar, and Alejandro Amenábar whose films have won international fame.
  • Highlight iconic films such as ‘El Laberinto del Fauno’, ‘Mar adentro’, and ‘Todo sobre mi madre’.
  • Understand the impact of the Franco era on Spanish cinema and the shift in cinematic themes post-Franco.

Infamous TV shows

  • Familiarise yourself with Spanish TV shows that have achieved international acclaim, like ‘La Casa De Papel’ (Money Heist) and ‘Élite’.
  • Watch local soap operas (telenovelas) such as ‘El Secreto de Puente Viejo’ and ‘Gran Reserva’.
  • Take note of children’s programming, a great tool for learning Spanish, such as ‘Pocoyo’.
  • Look into reality shows like ‘Operación Triunfo’, which has shaped the country’s pop music scene.

Themes and Genres in Spanish Film and TV

  • Explore the recurring themes like family relationships, social class, gender roles and the country’s history as depicted in Spanish cinema.
  • Take note of the genres that are common in Spanish cinema, such as thriller, horror, fantasy, and drama.
  • Understand the importance of black humour in many Spanish films and TV shows due to cultural and historical influences.
  • Discover the theme of social criticism expressed through metaphor and symbolism in Spanish cinema, a tradition dating back to Franco’s censorship.

Current Trends in Spanish Film and TV

  • Spot the increasing trend of Spanish created Netflix original series and films.
  • Notice the rise of female directors such as Icíar Bollaín and Isabel Coixet and their impact on the industry.
  • Grasp the resurgence and popularity of historical dramas set in different periods of Spain’s past.
  • Identify popular documentaries delving into social and political issues in Spain, like ‘El silencio de otros’.

Impacting Global Entertainment

  • Appreciate the influence of Spanish cinema in Hollywood through directors like Guillermo Del Toro.
  • Acknowledge Spanish actors, such as Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem, and their impact on international cinema.
  • Understand the global popularity of Spanish TV shows like ‘Money Heist’ leading to heightened interest in Spanish language learning.
  • Recognise the increasing international co-productions with Spanish film and TV studios, showcasing the industry’s global impact.