Gonzalo Suárez to Receive Goya of Honor 2026: A Celebration of a Cinematic Legend

Director and screenwriter Gonzalo Suárez is set to receive the prestigious Goya of Honor 2026 at the upcoming awards gala organized by the Spanish Film Academy, scheduled for February next year in Barcelona. The Academy has lauded Suárez's diverse filmography, noting his exploration of various genres and his significant influence on Spanish culture throughout the last sixty years. In a recent press statement, Suárez expressed his joy at being honored, acknowledging that the recognition encompasses his entire body of work. However, he also conveyed a sense of nostalgia, lamenting that the award finds him outside the filmmaking landscape. "I would like to once again say action and cut because cinema is action," he remarked poignantly. Born in Oviedo in 1934, Suárez is considered a pivotal figure in Spanish cinema, having previously been awarded the Goya for Best Direction for his 1989 film "Remando al viento." The Board of Directors of the Academy emphasized his intellect and sense of humor as defining traits that have made him an indelible presence in the film industry. Suárez's notable works include "El detective y la muerte," "Mi nombre es sombra," and "Oviedo Express." His experience in directing a roster of prestigious actors spans several decades, collaborating with talents such as Charo López, Francisco Rabal, and Javier Bardem, among many others. Reflecting on his experiences, Suárez noted his ability to foster strong relationships with his actors, stating, "I have gotten along well with all the interpreters. And despite being stubborn and not stopping until I obtained what I sought, it has been a rewarding journey." As he approaches his 91st birthday, Suárez has shifted his focus towards literature, recently releasing a new work titled "El caso de las cabezas cortadas" and reissuing "La suela de mis zapatos," a collection that established him as a precursor of new journalism with its chronicles, reports, and interviews. Suárez acknowledges the changing landscape of cinema, expressing a sentiment of longing for the production style of earlier eras, stating that modern cinema appears more in the hands of streaming platforms. He reminisced about past producers like Emiliano Piedra, who held significant influence over the industry. Throughout his career, Gonzalo Suárez has received numerous accolades, including the National Cinematography Award in 1991, the Gold Medal for Merit in Fine Arts, and the Luis Buñuel Award. He has also been recognized as a Knight of the Arts and Letters of France and awarded the Order of Alfonso X the Wise—the first time this honor has been bestowed upon a film director. As anticipation builds for the Goya awards ceremony, Suárez's illustrious journey in cinema continues to inspire generations, reaffirming his status as a true icon of Spanish culture. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2