Spanish actor Maria Pedraza, you know, the one from “Money Heist” and “Elite”, says streaming platforms have made Spanish cinema really popular outside of Spain. Now, artists like her don’t even need to go to the US to showcase their work anymore.
At just 27, Pedraza is quickly making a name for herself in Spanish cinema. She started off in 2014 with the movie “Amar” by Esteban Crespo.
“Thanks to streaming platforms, our profession has completely changed. We basically started our careers with these platforms, and it’s amazing to see how people from different countries can appreciate our work so closely, even though it’s made in Spain.
“You feel connected, and you don’t even have to go to the US to become famous,” the actor shared in an interview with PTI.
“Money Heist,” which was on Netflix for four seasons, became one of the most-watched non-English dramas on the platform. In the show, Pedraza played the role of Alison Parker, one of the hostages.
As an actress, I really think that “La casa de papel” has been the perfect production at the perfect time for this transformation. It’s been a total game-changer, you know? Like, a before and after kind of thing in this industry. And let me tell you, right now, I’m starring in this awesome Prime Video movie called “Awareness”.
Carlos Scholz and Pedro Alonso are in it too, and it’s just amazing how the global audience is craving these unique stories from the Spanish industry. It’s like a whole new reality, you know?
This film is already available on the streaming platform, and it’s about this rebellious teenager named Ian who can totally mess with people’s minds by creating visual illusions. But things get crazy when his powers start going out of control, and he becomes the target of these two rival organizations trying to exploit his abilities. Oh, and I play the role of Esther, Ian’s confidant. It’s such a cool character to portray!
The actor mentioned that she had a really good feeling about the film when she was approached to play the role. She said, “When I first heard about the project, I just had this gut feeling that it was gonna be a really powerful film because the script really fascinated me. And when I got cast, I wasn’t sure how it was gonna turn out because, you know, that’s out of your control. All you can do is bring your character to life and give your interpretation of the role.”
But let me tell you, after watching the final film, it’s just so impressive. The editing, the filming, the sound, everything! All the different crafts and talents that came together really made it a powerful product,” Pedraza said.
This film, “Awareness,” is directed by Daniel Benmayor. It also stars Oscar Jaenada and Lela Loren.
