As part of the 40th edition of the Guadalajara International Film Festival (FICG40), the Mexican premiere was held of the documentary La guitarra flamenca de Yerai Cortés, debut film by director Antón Álvarez, who takes us through the universe of flamenco and the intimate life of the guitarist from Alicante, Spain, Yerai Cortés.
The film portrays the reunion of Yerai Cortés with his gypsy roots, connecting with his family heritage through art, love and the pain that the guitar expresses beyond words. It has been internationally recognized and recently awarded two Goya 2025 Awards: Best Documentary Film and Best Original Song for "Los almendros", a song composed by Yerai Cortés, Antón Álvarez and La Tania.
The general director of FICG, Estrella Araiza, welcomed the audience and introduced the creative team behind the film. Antón Álvarez, visibly moved, thanked the warmth of the tapatío audience and introduced his partner, producer and inspiration for the project, Cristina Trenas Martín.
Also present were Tania García Martínez, singer and co-star of the documentary, and the protagonist of the film, Yerai Cortés himself, whom Antón described as "his favorite artist of all time".
"I am delighted to bring the film to Mexico and hope you enjoy it very much, you will see that it will surprise you," said the director. Cristina Trenas added with a laugh: "We have already said that we have to make a film every year just to have the excuse to return to Guadalajara".
The co-star wished the audience an emotional experience: "I hope they have fun with the film, that they get excited", while Yerai, moved, concluded: "I feel very excited to bring emotions, to bring the film, to bring flamenco and to make Guadalajara sound very flamenco tonight".
In partnership with the Fundación Universidad de Guadalajara, A.C., FICG supports altruistic civil associations through the screening of films from different countries whose box office is donated in its entirety. The screening of La guitarra flamenca by Yerai Cortés was a sell-out and, as a result, will have a second screening on Saturday, June 14 at 5:00 p.m. in Room 1 - Guillermo del Toro at the Cineteca FICG, at regular cost and without the presence of talent.
Foundations benefited by the Galas a Beneficio:
San Vicente de Atotonilco el Alto Asilo A.C.
FM4 Free Pass
Onco & Vita A.C.
Dreams and Hopes A.C.
Transplantados at the Hospital Civil Fray Antonio Alcalde A.C.
Una Oportunidad de Vida A.C.
Vamos Guerreros A.C.