This June, Movistar Plus+ will premiere “Pedro x Javis,” a groundbreaking three-part documentary series created by Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi, the acclaimed duo known as Los Javis. The series pays tribute to the extraordinary life and career of Pedro Almodóvar, offering viewers a fresh, innovative look at the celebrated Spanish filmmaker’s journey. Combining documentary footage, in-depth interviews, musical reinterpretations, and reimagined scenes from Almodóvar’s iconic films, the project marks a bold new chapter in Spanish television, aiming to both entertain and inspire audiences.
At the center of “Pedro x Javis” is an intimate and revealing conversation between Pedro Almodóvar and the series creators, filmed over the course of several days. These dialogues are filled with candid confessions and previously untold stories, giving viewers unprecedented access to the two-time Academy Award winner’s memories and creative process. During production, Almodóvar remarked,
highlighting just how revealing the exchanges have been, while also infusing the project with his signature wit.
The documentary draws on the insights of many of Pedro Almodóvar’s most trusted collaborators. This includes actresses Penélope Cruz, Julieta Serrano, Rossy de Palma, Bibiana Fernández, Loles León, Carmen Machi, Lola Dueñas, and Leonor Watling, each of whom shares their personal experiences and reflections. Appearances from Antonio Banderas, Pedro’s brother and El Deseo co-founder Agustín Almodóvar, producer Esther García, cinematographer José Luis Alcaine, and composer Alberto Iglesias further enrich the narrative, weaving a tapestry that captures the spirit of Almodóvar’s artistic circle.
Beyond interviews, “Pedro x Javis” distinguishes itself with colorful musical numbers and theatrical reenactments. Renowned artists like Amaia, Nathy Peluso, Guitarricadelafuente, Luz Casal, Albert Pla, Raül Refree, and Antonio Banderas take center stage, reinterpreting memorable songs from Pedro Almodóvar’s films in imaginative new settings. These lively performances underscore the director’s lasting influence on Spanish music and culture, blending drama and emotion in a tribute befitting Almodóvar’s unique style.
The series unfolds across three episodes titled “Amigas y madres,” “Ley y deseo,” and “Muerte y cine.” Each chapter explores themes central to Pedro Almodóvar’s body of work, following his evolution from his early life in La Mancha to his status as one of the most influential voices in contemporary cinema. The documentary’s visual aesthetic, overseen by artist Ignasi Monreal, utilizes original props and set pieces from Almodóvar’s films, creating an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and original.
Behind the scenes, Calvo and Ambrossi serve not just as hosts but as producers, supported by a creative team that includes Brays Efe and Paloma Rando as screenwriters, Guillermo Mendo as co-director, Uri Barcelona as director of photography, Celia Cuéllar as editor, Leila Rodríguez as art director, and Álex de Lucas as music director. Executive production is led by Domingo Corral, Pilar Robla, and Custodio Pastor, ensuring meticulous attention to every aspect of the series.
Reflecting on their collaboration with Pedro Almodóvar, Los Javis stated,
Domingo Corral, executive producer and former Movistar+ director of fiction and entertainment, observed,
With its innovative blend of documentary storytelling, musical artistry, and heartfelt homage, “Pedro x Javis” positions Pedro Almodóvar’s legacy at the center of Spanish culture for a new generation. The series not only honors the filmmaker’s enduring impact on cinema but also signals a fresh direction for documentary formats in Spain, inviting viewers to rediscover the stories and artistry that have defined Almodóvar’s remarkable career. As audiences anticipate the premiere, enthusiasm grows for what promises to be a vivid, insightful, and inspiring television event.
