Iciar Bollaín’s San Sebastián Entry ‘I Am Nevenka,’ About a Pioneering Spanish Sexual Harassment Case, Gets a Trailer (EXCLUSIVE)

As a film enthusiast with a deep appreciation for stories that shed light on important social issues and human resilience, I am deeply moved by the trailer of “I Am Nevenka,” a powerful Spanish film directed by Iciar Bollain based on true events. The story follows Nevenka Fernández, a brave woman who made history in Spain by winning a court case against her ex-boyfriend and all-powerful mayor for sexual harassment.


One of the highly anticipated Spanish films in this year’s San Sebastian film festival main competition, “I Am Nevenka” directed by Iciar Bollain, has an exclusive trailer that has been released, which can be viewed on EbMaster.

“I Am Nevenka,” penned alongside Isa Campo, who collaborated on two San Sebastian Golden Shell award winners, namely “The Double Steps” (2011) and “Between Two Waters” (2018), is distributed by Film Factory Entertainment. This film is based on real-life occurrences, centering around Nevenka Fernández – a former member of the Ponferrada City Council who made history in 2001 as the first woman in Spain to successfully sue for sexual harassment against a prominent politician, her ex-boyfriend and powerful mayor of Ponferrada, Ismael Alvárez.”

Despite triumphing in her dispute, she paid a heavy cost, primarily self-reliant as she battled against the resistance of many of her peers. This struggle earned her negative labels from the media, such as ‘social climber’ or worse, ‘prostitute.’ Eventually, she decided to move from Ponferrada to London.

In the trailer, a significant portion is shown. While filming “I Am Nevenka,” Bollaín spoke to EbMaster about the movie’s theme. According to her, “I Am Nevenka” explores the misuse of power and how it affects its victim. When an abuser leaves someone powerless and defenseless.

1. The trailer reveals instances of physical abuse (Álvarez trying to inappropriately touch Fernández under a table) and psychological control (manipulation), such as Alvarez confronting her on the street with an outdated stereotype about women by using the diminutive “Quenca.” He also falsely accuses her, a common tactic among men, of being mentally unstable.

In a more respectful and less harsh manner, Alvárez might say: “Quenca, your behavior seems immature to me right now. Could we please discuss this matter more constructively? I’m finding your comments rather negative.”

In my perspective as a movie reviewer, the film “I Am Nevenka” powerfully underscores that silence from bystanders can contribute to the prevalence of sexual harassment. Director Bollaín emphasizes this point during production, stating that “bullying occurs because others remain silent.” The entire environment or milieu in the film becomes an integral part of the narrative, serving as another component in the complex web of sexual harassment.

In many trailer scenes, Fernández is frequently depicted standing solo. Notably, the true main characters are sometimes subtly positioned in the backdrop, such as in the knowing, almost smirking responses from Fernández’s colleagues when she is appointed a councillor, and is granted two prestigious roles on the Council, Treasury and Commerce.

“Nevenka Is Me” is a film co-produced by Movistar Plus+, Kowalski Films, and Feelgood Media. This collaboration is an integral part of Movistar Plus+’s initiative to showcase top Spanish directors in high-caliber productions.

20 years have passed since the events known as “The Nevenka Case” took place. As Nevenka fights for justice, she emphasizes her personal identity and dignity above all else. It seems clear that the movie, much like any other film, is being produced with a keen awareness of the current times.

“How would you advise women experiencing similar situations as yours, according to a journalist’s question as Nevenka exits the courthouse? ‘Don’t stay quiet!’ is her response.”

Approximately 27 women lost their lives due to gender-based violence in Spain during the year 2024. The moving campaign “I Am Nevenka” honors a woman who courageously broke the silence on this issue when it was still a taboo topic in Spain.

Iciar Bollaín’s San Sebastián Entry ‘I Am Nevenka,’ About a Pioneering Spanish Sexual Harassment Case, Gets a Trailer (EXCLUSIVE)

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2024-07-30 10:16