Aitana Sánchez-Gijón is poised to receive the Goya de Honor at the upcoming Goya awards, set for February 8, 2025, in Granada, Spain. The announcement of this prestigious accolade has not only celebrated her stellar career but has also sparked conversation around the importance of mentoring and collaboration within the film industry.
At 56 years old, Sánchez-Gijón will become the youngest woman to receive this honor, showcasing her impressive contributions to Spanish cinema and theater over nearly four decades. The award is particularly meaningful considering her call to young actors and actresses to continue their professional development and training, echoing her belief in perpetual growth and learning.
"Cuando me lo comunican, me quedo estupefacta y hasta le echo la bronca a Fernando Méndez Leite porque pienso que soy muy joven y aún no tengo los méritos suficientes." These words, spoken by Sánchez-Gijón, reveal her initial surprise and humble disposition upon receiving the news of the Goya recognition. Reported by Agencia EFE, her thoughtful reflection highlights both her accomplishments and her continuous quest for personal and professional evolution.
The Goya de Honor will be awarded during the 39th Goya awards ceremony, where several films—including 'El 47' and 'La infiltrada'—dominate the nominations this year. The ceremony promises to be both celebratory and momentous, particularly with the recognition of distinguished figures like Richard Gere, who will be honored as the Goya Internacional.
Throughout her career, Sánchez-Gijón has graced both the stage and screen with her talents, collaborating with renowned directors such as Pedro Almodóvar and Imanol Uribe. She describes her career path as "una carrera de fondo," underscoring the effort, dedication, and strategy involved in her artistic choices. She recalls her roots beginning at the young age of nine, reflecting on her evolution as both artist and person.
One of her latest projects, the film 'Tierra baja,' reflects her commitment to tackle challenging roles. The film, described as introspective and set against the backdrop of the beautiful landscapes of Bajo Aragón, invites viewers to engage with its slow-paced storytelling—an approach Aitana is passionate about. "Es un reto trabajar con lo pequeño, lo imperceptible, lo lento," she notes, expressing her enthusiasm about artistically exploring nuanced narratives.
Looking forward, Aitana expressed her deep desire to work with the newer generation of talented directors, stating, "Me gustaría trabajar con muchas de las directoras talentosas que están saliendo." Flaunting her support for the upcoming filmmakers, she acknowledges the wealth of talent bursting onto the scene and her eagerness to collaborate with them. She emphasizes how the film industry is on the brink of significant change, driven by the fresh perspectives and stories these new directors bring.
Aitana Sánchez-Gijón’s contributions extend beyond acting; she has been active within the industry, having served as the first president of the Academy of Cinema from 1998 to 2000. Her behind-the-scenes influence has undoubtedly paved the way for future generations, showcasing her commitment as both an artist and as a mentor.
With the Goya de Honor now added to her accolades, including the prestigious Concha de Oro for her performance as the Duchess of Alba, this recognition arrives not merely as personal success but as validation of her lifelong dedication to the arts. The upcoming gala is sure to be an emotional affair, as she publicly steps forward to embrace the honor and acknowledge the community of filmmakers and actors who shaped her career.
Intriguingly, Sanchez-Gijón’s career encapsulates the narrative of resilience and continual growth, not just for herself but for all those she inspires. Her story interweaves with the larger fabric of the Spanish film industry, emphasizing the importance of nurturing new talent and the value of shared experiences. It is also reflective of the shifts occurring within the industry as it adapts to new voices and changes spurred by movements like #MeToo.
Finally, as she prepares for the Goya de Honor gala, Aitana Sánchez-Gijón does so with grace and anticipation. With each award, she hopes to convey her love for cinema and art, and to inspire others to pursue their dreams alongside her new initiatives focused on collaboration and education. A chapter is set to conclude, and yet, it is undoubtedly the precursor to many more incredible stories awaiting to be told on what Aitana calls "una carrera de fondo."