30/08/2005

Tapas by José Corbacho and Juan Cruz, and Gerardo Herrero's Heroína are the two Spanish films presented in the Official Section of the Montreal World Film Festival (26th of August – 5th of September).

Tapas, the directorial debut of José Corbacho and Juan Cruz mixes drama, humour and social critique in a story that crosses the lives of the inhabitants of Santa Eulàlia, a suburban neighbourhood of Barcelona. Some of the characters meet in a tapas bar run by Lolo (Ángel de Andrés López), whose wife (Amparo Moreno) has abandoned him. Thanks to his Chinese cook (Alberto Jo Lee), Lolo will open himself up to a World beyond his bar. Raquel (Elvira Mínguez) is a lonely 40 year old woman who has a cyber relationship with 20 year old César (Rubén Ochandiano), whereas César's pal, Opo (Darío Paso), buys Ectasy for Doña Conchi (María Galiana). She is a retired woman trafficking drugs to satisfy the demands of her husband (Alberto De Mendoza), who has a terminal disease. The film's title is a reference both to the typical Spanish tapas and also a game with the verb "tapar" (to cover) since all the characters are hiding something in their lives.
Produced by Castelao Productions and Tusitala, Tapas was the big winner at the last Malaga Spanish Film Festival, winning the Biznaga de Oro for best film, the Biznaga de Plata for best actress (Elvira Minués) and the public "Diario Sur" Award. But the tragic comic tone of the film also won over moviegoers. The film opened in Spain in May 13th and quickly became one of the most successful local films in the Spanish box office (over 2,7 million euros), together with Habana Blues and Reinas.

Also awarded in Malaga with the Biznaga de Plata for best direction (Gerardo Herrero), and Biznaga de Plata for best script (Ángeles González Sinde), Heroína tells the story of Pilar (Adriana Ozores), a mother who finds out that her son Fito (Javier Pereira) is a drug addict. After a period of incredulity, shame and silence, Pilar gathers other parents and begins a long tough battle against drug trafficking. The film is inspired by the true story of Carmen Avendaño, who founded the 'Érguete' association, and who managed to uncover and take to court certain Galician dealers and their accomplices.
Entirely shot in Galicia, this production by Tornasol Films and Continental Producciones is part of the section "Rebellious and untamed" from the forthcoming San Sebastian Film Festival, a section dedicated to the social evolution of women.