About movie: Valenciana is a 2024 Spanish drama film directed by Jordi Núñez, based on the play of the same name by Jordi Casanovas. Set in the vibrant and turbulent 1990s Valencia, the film follows the intertwined lives of three female journalists – Valèria, Ana, and Encarna – as they navigate the complexities of their personal and professional lives against the backdrop of a rapidly changing society.
The film delves into the socio-political landscape of the era, marked by the decline of the "Ruta del Bakalao" phenomenon, the rise of sensationalist television, and the pervasive influence of political corruption. Through the experiences of its protagonists, Valenciana explores themes of friendship, ambition, disillusionment, and the struggle to maintain integrity in a world obsessed with spectacle and power.
Plot Summary:
Valèria, Ana, and Encarna are three friends and journalists trying to make their mark in a male-dominated profession. Valèria grapples with drug addiction while investigating the dark underbelly of the "Ruta del Bakalao." Ana, driven by ambition, finds herself entangled in the world of lurid television shows, compromising her journalistic ethics for the sake of ratings. Encarna, working as a political party communicator, witnesses firsthand the manipulative tactics and corruption that plague the political landscape.
As their personal and professional lives become increasingly intertwined, the three women must confront their own demons and make difficult choices that will ultimately test the strength of their friendship and their commitment to journalistic integrity.
Director's Vision:
Jordi Núñez aimed to capture the essence of the 1990s in Valencia, a period marked by both progress and disillusionment. He wanted to explore the impact of societal changes on individual lives, particularly the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society. Through the film, Núñez seeks to shed light on the complexities of human relationships and the compromises people make in their pursuit of success and happiness.
Themes:
Friendship: The film explores the enduring bonds of friendship and the challenges of maintaining those bonds in the face of personal struggles and differing ambitions.
Ambition and Compromise: Valenciana examines the allure of success and the compromises individuals make in their pursuit of it, often at the expense of their integrity and personal values.
Disillusionment: The film captures the sense of disillusionment that permeated Spanish society in the 1990s, as the initial optimism of the post-Franco era gave way to the realities of corruption and social inequality.
Gender Inequality: Valenciana highlights the challenges faced by women in a male-dominated society, particularly in the professional sphere.
The Power of the Media: The film critiques the role of the media in shaping public perception and its potential to manipulate and exploit for personal gain.
Key Success Factors:
Strong performances: The film features compelling performances from its lead actresses, Ángela Cervantes, Tània Fortea, and Conchi Espejo, who bring depth and nuance to their characters.
Authentic portrayal of the era: Valenciana effectively captures the atmosphere and cultural nuances of 1990s Valencia, creating a sense of nostalgia and historical relevance.
Thought-provoking themes: The film tackles complex and relevant themes that resonate with audiences, sparking conversations about friendship, ambition, and the challenges of navigating a rapidly changing world.
Visually stunning cinematography: The film's cinematography is visually striking, capturing the beauty and vibrancy of Valencia while also highlighting the darker aspects of the era.
Short Summary:
Valenciana is a powerful and poignant drama that explores the lives of three female journalists in 1990s Valencia, as they navigate the complexities of friendship, ambition, and disillusionment in a rapidly changing society.
Awards, and Nominations (IMDB):
Cinema Jove-Valencia International Film Festival (2024): Audience Award
Critical Reception:
Valenciana has received generally positive reviews from critics, with praise for its strong performances, authentic portrayal of the era, and thought-provoking themes. Some critics have noted the film's uneven pacing and occasional melodramatic moments, but overall, it has been lauded as a compelling and insightful exploration of a pivotal period in Spanish history.
Box Office Performance:
As of February 17, 2025, Valenciana has grossed $22,417 worldwide.
Production Summary:
Valenciana is a Pegatum Transmedia, Dacsa Produccions, Àmbar Pictures, and Solworks Films production. It was shot in Valencian (Catalan) and Spanish.
Production Companies:
Pegatum Transmedia
Dacsa Produccions
Àmbar Pictures
Solworks Films
Distribution & Sales Summary:
The film is distributed by Carácter Films.
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt27667376/
About movie: https://caracterfilms.com/portfolio/valenciana/
Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/es/pelicula/valenciana (Spain)
Why You Should Watch This Movie:
Compelling story: Valenciana tells a captivating story of friendship, ambition, and disillusionment, set against the backdrop of a pivotal period in Spanish history.
Strong performances: The film features outstanding performances from its lead actresses, who bring depth and complexity to their characters.
Authentic portrayal of an era: Valenciana effectively captures the atmosphere and cultural nuances of 1990s Valencia.
Thought-provoking themes: The film explores complex and relevant themes that resonate with audiences, sparking conversations about friendship, ambition, and the challenges of navigating a rapidly changing world.
Visually stunning cinematography: The film's cinematography is visually striking, capturing the beauty and vibrancy of Valencia.
Final Verdict:
Valenciana is a powerful and poignant drama that offers a compelling glimpse into the lives of three women navigating the complexities of 1990s Valencia. With its strong performances, authentic portrayal of the era, and thought-provoking themes, Valenciana is a must-watch for those interested in Spanish cinema and stories that explore the human condition.
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