The award, presented by the Institute of Cinematography and Audiovisual Arts (ICAA) under the Ministry of Culture, comes with a €30,000 prize. Machi joins an illustrious list of past recipients, including Oscar winners Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem, underscoring the significance of this recognition within the Spanish film industry.
Machi is widely known for her iconic comedic role as Aida in the hugely popular Spanish series "7 Lives" and its spin-off "Aida." Beyond television, her filmography boasts collaborations with acclaimed directors, notably Pedro Almodóvar in "Talk to Her" and "Broken Embraces." She also showcased her range in the blockbuster "Spanish Affair" ("8 apellidos vascos"), and more recently garnered acclaim for her work in "Celeste," where she won Best Actress at Series Mania's International Panorama, and her dramatic turn in Carlota Pereda's "Piggy" and "La Mesías."
During the ceremony, screenwriter Diego San José, who worked with Machi on "Spanish Affair" and "Celeste," delivered a heartfelt tribute. He humorously compared her to national heritage sites, stating, "Carmen is already part of our national heritage, like an aqueduct or like the Burgos Cathedral, but much better preserved than those two examples." He added a more profound sentiment, noting, "when we look at you, we see ourselves," highlighting her relatable portrayal of characters.
Spanish Minister of Culture Ernest Urtasun echoed these sentiments, describing Machi as "a truly great actress of innate talent and extraordinary versatility." He drew parallels between her and legendary actresses such as Anna Magnani, Marisa Paredes, and Julieta Serrano, emphasizing her unique contribution to the performing arts.
Accepting the award, Machi reflected on her lifelong fascination with acting, recalling a childhood spent recreating movie scenes in front of a mirror. "I never imagined that that game, which was a refuge to overcome my insecurity and my shyness, would become my craft and my way of life," she confessed. She spoke movingly about the profound impact her profession has had on her life. "This profession has given me a wonderful life. It is and has been the driving force of my happiness and also a balm for my darkest moments," she shared, encapsulating the deep personal meaning of her celebrated career.
Machi's journey from a shy child finding solace in imagination to a celebrated actress revered for her craft serves as an inspiration, affirming the transformative power of art and passion.
