2023-09-27
“‘Bizkarsoro’ is a grassroots project, created with the help of more than 200 residents of Baigorri"
The feature film 'Bizkarsoro,' directed by Josu Martínez, will also compete in the Zinemira section of the San Sebastián Festival. The story encompasses five true stories based on written and oral testimonies, which take place between 1914 and 1982, in a village that does not exist. Produced by Gastibeltza Filmak, Adabaki Ekoizpenak, and Tentazioa Produkzioak, the work highlights the social changes experienced by a small village during the 20th century. The radiation and the end of a language, and the fight to survive.
- In this next edition of the Festival you will present two of your works, 'Bizkarsoro' and 'Mirande'. What are your expectations for the festival?
Nothing special. To have a good time showing films to the public, because the atmosphere at the premiere is always nice, not to mention sharing.
- How would you present the film ‘Bizkarsoro’?
‘Bizkarsoro’, a film which spans the whole 20th century, tells the story of the disappearance and survival of the Basque language in a small fictitious town in Iparralde. We spent five years filming it in Baigorri, shooting one part per year, and with the help of more than 200 local people. That's why this project is very precious to me, because it has been very popular, we've told the story of the people who speak Basque, with amateur actors, and with a Basque team coming from both the north and the south.
- What was the film's journey?
The process has taken five years, which we did in parts, and it's a beautiful thing to see it conclude with its screening at the Zinemaldia. It seems to me that it is also a way of giving back what the people of Baigorri have given to us.
- What does it mean for you when a festival as prestigious as this one chooses two of your works?
Joy, of course.
