In recent years, Spanish cinema has taken off, not just in the homeland but throughout the world – with the likes of Penelope Cruz impacting on the Hollywood scene!

Spain's favourite, Penelope Cruz

So, it wasn’t a surprise that this year’s Oscar ceremony had more Spanish eyes on it than ever!  Unfortunately, the Madrid sweetheart Penelope Cruz  was beaten by Mo’nique for her work in Precious – though Penelope already knows the glory of an Oscar, having won already.

What did get through the nomination stage, however, and win, was “El secreto de sus ojos”, by Campanella, which took the award for the best non-English speaking film.  It sure must have been nice to collect the award, so far from Spain accross the ocean, knowing that many compatriots were there in the audience: not only was Penelope Cruz (wearing a stunning Donna Karen gown) there, accompanied by her Spanish actor boyfriend, Javier Bardem, many others came to represent Spanish cinema, including a group from Kandor, the production company of Malaga’s Antonio Banderas, who was there to support the recent short film “La dama y la muerte”.

El secreto de sus ojos, Spain's hit film

There was also some controversy at the awards – the much hyped Avatar film only received three of the nine prizes it was nominated for, whilst the ex-wife of Avatar’s director, James Cameron, Kathryn Bigelow walked off with six awards for her “El tierra hostil” (in English, “The hurt locker“).  In fact so great was her achievement, Cameron jumped out of his seat in elation for her.

The Hurt Locker - Kathryn Bigelow's hit film

Spanish cinema, although not the principle part of the Oscars, there’s still a long way to go of course, is gaining a great importance nowadays and it’s up to us – as Spanish learners – to promote it outside of Spain.  So start by checking out our film nights, as part of the Mester activity programme, and later, by discussing what you think with your classmates, you’ll better your Spanish too!