The phenomenon of 20.000 bee species at the Berlinale 2023
In mid-February 2023, the 73rd edition of the Berlinale became a crucial stage for Spanish cinema. This iconic international film festival stood out for its commitment to artistic innovation, but also for being a meeting point for moving human stories. Among the various works presented, 20.000 species of bees, the debut of Estibaliz Urresola Solaguren, not only captured the attention of the public, but also of the jury, managing to position itself as one of the most acclaimed in the Official Section of the event.
The resonance of this film was not a coincidence. In a context where the discourse on the gender identity and trans childhoods is gaining visibility, Urresola constructed an intimate narrative that explores the emotional and social struggles faced by these minors and their families. With sensitivity and authenticity, the director takes us on a personal journey that, despite being deeply individual, reflects universal issues.
An argument that moves and sparks debates
In the heart of 20.000 species of bees We find the story of Coco, a trans girl of just eight years old who fights to be recognized as she really is. From the perspective of a family facing its own prejudices, the film addresses the emotional and social complexity of accepting gender diversity.
During a decisive summer, Coco, who is still called Aitor by those around him, travels with his mother Ane (masterfully played by Patricia López Arnaiz) and his siblings to the family home. There they live with key figures such as his grandmother Lita and his aunt Lourdes, who works as a beekeeper. Everything revolves around a delicate balance: while Coco seeks to reaffirm her identity, the adults navigate between their own contradictions and learnings.
The symbolism of bees, present throughout the film, is fundamental to understanding its depth. These creatures, with their complex and diverse organization Within the hives, they reflect the different ways a family can adapt and thrive through acceptance. The bees also represent the fragility and collective effort needed to build an inclusive environment.
Sofia Otero: a child talent making history
One of the highlights of 20.000 species of bees is the interpretation of Sofia Otero, who gives life to Coco. Despite her young age, Sofia becomes the soul of the film, offering a performance that combines naturalness, charisma and extraordinary sensitivity.
His talent was recognized with the Silver Bear for Best Leading Performance, a historic achievement that places her as the youngest actress to receive this award. This award not only represents recognition for her efforts, but also for the impact that the character of Coco has in making visible the realities faced by trans children.
In her remarks upon receiving the award, Sofía Otero expressed her gratitude towards the film's crew and her family, making it clear that her performance was the result of a joint effort under Urresola's direction. This performance has already been described as a turning point in his career, as well as a milestone for Spanish cinema.
The Spanish representation at the Berlinale
While 20.000 species of bees was the epicenter of attention, it was not the only Spanish project to stand out at the Berlinale 2023. This year set a precedent with the largest participation of Spanish films in the history of the festival. Among them, projects such as matria by Alvaro Gago, Samsara fleet by Lois Patiño and Sica by Carla Subirana, which were exhibited in various sections of the Berlinale.
In addition, Basque filmmakers Mikel Gurrea and Maddi Barber complemented this representation by participating in the program Berlinale TalentsThis boom demonstrates the growth and creative diversity of Spanish cinema on the international stage.
Estíbaliz Urresola's vision: cinema that educates and transforms
Director Estíbaliz Urresola not only stands out for her Captivating narration, but also for its rigorous documentation. To ensure a faithful and respectful portrayal of trans children, it worked alongside organisations such as Naizen, which support families with trans children. This meticulous approach is reflected in every scene, offering a view free of stigma and prejudice.
For Urresola, Cinema is a tool for social transformation: "I want my work to be a space for dialogue, awareness and reflection," he said in a recent interview. Through 20.000 species of bees, invites the public to analyze their own perspectives and empathize with stories that, although distant to some, are part of our society.
Recognitions and future projections
The film's success was not limited to the Berlinale. Subsequently, 20.000 species of bees was recognized in the Malaga Festival, taking home the award for Best Spanish Film and other awards such as the Feroz Award for Best Supporting Actress for Ane Gabarain. It also received international awards such as the Gilde for Artistic Cinema and the Berliner Morgenpost Reader's Jury Award.
On a global level, media such as The Guardian y Variety praised the film, highlighting it as a "relevant and deeply human" work. This critical support and the international distribution managed by Luxbox assures that the film will reach audiences around the world.
20.000 species of bees continues to mark a before and after in Spanish cinema. With a powerful narrative, unforgettable performances and a powerful message, has established itself as a work that transcends the boundaries of the seventh art and is positioned as a benchmark in terms of diversity and inclusion.