Trailblazing movie producer Esther García, associated with Pedro Almodóvar, shares her unexpected entry into the cinema realm: 'I found myself in the film industry nearly by accident.'
Agustín García, a pioneering figure in the Spanish film industry, has been honoured with the Donostia Career Achievement Award at this year's 73rd San Sebastian Film Festival. This recognition marks a significant milestone in García's illustrious career, spanning over five decades.
García's journey began almost by chance in 1975, when she started as a production secretary. Her love for cinema, fueled by a fascination for going to the movies, led her to find her calling in production, a calling she confirmed while working on the TV series 'Curro Jiménez'.
In 1986, García joined forces with Pedro Almodóvar and his brother Agustín Almodóvar, co-founders of the production company El Deseo. Since then, she has been involved in every Almodóvar project, from his 1986 drama "Matador" to his latest release, "Bitter Christmas" ("Amarga Navidad").
García's partnership with Almodóvar has been a fruitful one, leading to the creation of some of Spanish cinema's most iconic films. Their collaboration has evolved into a nearly telepathic form of communication, a testament to the years they have spent working together.
Beyond her work with Almodóvar, García has also collaborated with other renowned directors such as Damian Szifron, Guillermo del Toro, Lucrecia Martel, and Pablo Trapero. She has shepherded select third-party projects that El Deseo has boarded, including "Wild Tales," "The Devil's Backbone," "Zama," "The Clan," and "Sirât."
When producing films by other directors, García looks for a script that moves and interests her, and seeks to build a genuine and committed relationship with the director. She approaches each project with the intention of making something unique and lasting, aiming to create "forever films."
García's 50-year trajectory as a producer includes collaborations with various directors, reflecting her versatility and commitment to the art of filmmaking. Despite the challenges she faced as a woman in the industry during the '70s, when women were relegated to minor positions in the production department, García has consistently pushed boundaries and made her mark.
As the first recipient of this award who is not an actor, actress, or director, García's achievement is a testament to her significant contribution to the world of film. She continues to strive to master and refine her skills over time, as has Almodóvar and all those around her.
The San Sebastian Film Festival, running from Sept. 19-27, is a fitting platform to celebrate García's extraordinary career. As the festival unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the power of cinema and the dedication of those who bring it to life.
