In a lively episode of the popular Spanish show El Hormiguero, actors Karra Elejalde and Luis Zahera visited to promote their new action thriller Tierra de nadie, showcasing not just their film but also sharing insights into their experiences and personal anecdotes.
During their March 25, 2025 visit, Zahera shared a particularly amusing story about an encounter with the legendary Spanish singer Camilo Sesto while he was working on the Galician program Luar. Nervous and inexperienced at the time, Zahera wanted to ask Sesto for an autograph. Instead of a typical fan request, he was met with an unexpected moment of humor when Sesto sniffed the marker Zahera was holding and commented, "It smells good." Zahera humorously recounted his flustered response: "I understand it smells very nice." This light-hearted tale not only entertained the audience but also showcased Zahera's genuine fandom for one of Spain's music icons.
As the conversation shifted gears, Elejalde disclosed her own experience with the prestigious Goya Awards. She advised her daughter, Ainara Elejalde, to not have high expectations if she ever receives a nomination, to avoid disappointment. "What you need to do is be prepared for a no. If you assume you won't win, you might be pleasantly surprised," she explained. Reflecting on her own experience, she recounted the overwhelming joy and shock of her first Goya win, saying, "The first time I received my Goya, I spoke for a quarter of an hour because I was so taken by surprise!"
The duo's film, Tierra de nadie, paints an intricate picture of friendship amidst corruption and crime. Zahera plays a Civil Guard and Elejalde portrays a drug trafficker, showcasing the unexpected bond they share despite being on opposite sides of the law. As Zahera put it, the film serves as "an ode to friendship" with a poignant social critique woven throughout. He emphasized the relevance of the story, stating, "We are the gateway to Europe from the south; previously, drugs came through Galicia, and now they come through Cádiz," shedding light on real issues surrounding drug trafficking in Spain.
While speaking about the film, both actors remarked on the challenges faced during production. Elejalde described an intense scene where she had to wade through marshes while Zahera nearly succumbed to hypothermia due to the artificial rain used during filming. In a humorous tone, Elejalde shared, "Artificial rain is much colder. When it hits you, it's impossible to talk. The drops are heavy. Luis was almost hypothermic; we had to put him in the engine of a boat to warm him up afterward!" Such anecdotes not only illuminate their dedication to the craft but also the camaraderie that developed on set.
Overall, this episode of El Hormiguero was not just about promoting a film; it was a delightful blend of personal stories, professional insights, and a heartfelt exploration of themes surrounding friendship and adversity. With Elejalde and Zahera’s engaging personalities and shared laughter, they left the audience with a strong impression of both their characters and the realities depicted in Tierra de nadie.
As they wrap up their promotional tour, it will be interesting to see how audiences respond to what they describe as more than just a movie; it’s a powerful narrative that touches on societal issues while celebrating human connections.
