Official Competition (Competencia Oficial)
This film contains flickering or flashing lights that may affect those with photosensitive epilepsy.
In this Spanish comedy, a millionaire decides on his eightieth birthday that he needs something more memorable than business success to guarantee his legacy. He decides to produce a film and after securing the rights to a Nobel Prize-winning novel, engages acclaimed but unconventional auteur Lola Cuevas (Penelope Cruz) to direct. She in turn casts two very different actors – global movie star Felix (Antonio Banderas) and distinguished thespian Iván (Oscar Martínez) - as her leads. Before long, methods, personalities and egos clash!
Official Competition is a clever satire that pokes fun at various elements of film culture, but also has some genuine laugh-out-loud moments. All three actors are clearly enjoying themselves, but it is Cruz that is the standout here.
Directors: Mariano Cohn, Gastón Duprat
Cast: Penélope Cruz, Antonio Banderas, Oscar Martínez
‘Penélope Cruz and Antonio Banderas are a blast in this riotous takedown of egotistical actors.’
Phil de Semlyen, Time Out, Venice International Film Festival 2021
‘Big laughs and searing insights into the artistic process power this highly enjoyable film world satire’
David Jenkins, Little White Lies, Venice International Film Festival 2021
All listings subject to change/licence.