When I finished "Una mujer bajo la
lluvia" (Woman in the Rain), I told myself I wouldn't shoot another
film until I was given a script that I really liked. I haven't felt
any big urge to film before because I think that only those who
have something interesting to tell should do it. "La Celestina",
written by Fernando de Rojas has an impeccable narrative structure.
I would be more frightened to become involved with a script of
another nature and characteristics than with this one based on La
Celestina that carries so much weight. I have great respect for it
and feel a responsibility not to spoil it, but on the other hand I
know that the material I am basing myself is excellent [...]
Azcona and I have made use of Rojas
to make a contemporary journey. My intention is to tell a story of
the year 1500 based on today's keys and codes. I intend to make a
film that is credible and charged with sensuality, which explains a
perception of love that is close to passion, that shows Melibea's
perception of passion.
[...] Celestina (the matchmaker)
isn't as poor in the film. She was far too clever to end in
poverty. For me she is a modern woman, especially because of the
respect she shows for knowledge. She is perfectly aware about was
goes on in the city and what thoughts run through its citizens
minds. This remarkable woman enjoys and vibrates with other
people's passion because her concept of sensuality is very broad.
She senses, sees and feels other people's pleasure, recalling the
times when she was young. She isn't a witch either, but a scientist
who knows formulae and potions to attain her goals. She isn't
vulgar, she is cautious and moves like a leopard. She manipulates
people with her knowledge to do and undo things to her own benefit.
She has everybody caught-out for something in one way or another.
When Terele gazes at someone or at something, I believe that is the
way the Celestina would. She is above and beyond the incidents and
vicissitudes of the characters. She foresees what is going to
happen, though not because she is a witch but rather because she is
intelligent. It was always clear to us that La Celestina's role
should be played by Terele Pávez. I had her in mind from the
beginning. I have worked with her in a film for TV: "La otra
historia de Rosendo Juárez". Her work demanded a control over
emotions that was very complex and I saw how she responded with an
incredibly good performance.
GERARDO VERA