When you arrive in Madrid, you feel like you’ve come home, thanks to the atmosphere of its streets, the charm of its people and the familiarity of its landmarks. You’ve experienced this before, but why?
Madrid is present in many of the things around us, from sports to television. You see it in major events in the country and around the world, you see it in the news, in Instagram and TikTok videos, and, of course, in the cinema.
We are used to seeing big productions in the capital, both series and films, and that’s what we’re here for today.
We’ll solve the mystery of all the times you’ve seen Madrid in the cinema, both as the main actor and as an almost imperceptible backdrop.
Madrid and cinema, a happy marriage for life
Abre los ojos
Our first stop is pure nostalgia. It’s 1997, and a young Alejandro Amenábar thinks of the talented Eduardo Noriega to star in this cinematic gem.
Without knowing it, the combination of Amenábar, Noriega, and Madrid would give us an instant classic. Although when it comes to classics, its scene on Gran Vía takes the cake. Seeing César, the main character played by Eduardo Noriega, walking down a completely empty Gran Vía is a striking image.
But it’s not the only iconic location we get to see. The film takes place in the capital, so you can imagine how many places you’ll see. Paseo de la Castellana and Plaza Mayor are just a few examples.
By the way, four years later Hollywood couldn’t resist and made a remake of this film. Penélope Cruz reprised her role, but instead of Eduardo Noriega, Tom Cruise starred, and instead of a deserted Gran Vía, we see a completely empty Times Square. They try, but it’s not the same; nothing compares to our Madrid.
El día de la bestia
A step back in time takes us to another of the most epic moments in Spanish cinema, showing us corners of Madrid that have gone from being mythical to true legends.
In 1995, director Alex de la Iglesia gave us iconic scenes, and Santiago Segura gave us a performance for the history books. Even if you haven’t seen the film, you’ll instantly recognise the clip of the moment in the Carrión building.
The name of the building may not ring a bell, but what if I told you that Santiago Segura was hooked to the Schweppes sign with a fit of laughter at his heaviest and most satanic? That sounds more familiar.
Quantum of Solace
Make way, here comes the most famous secret agent in film history, although he’s not so secret anymore. Who doesn’t know James Bond? Faithful protector of Her Majesty.
The film is not set entirely in Madrid, as you know that James Bond is a restless soul and cannot stay in the same country or even continent for more than forty minutes.
Among the places you will recognise, between the super spy’s chases and witty lines, you will see the magnificent Royal Palace, a must-see if you come to Madrid, and the Royal Theatre.
El Ultimatum de Bourne
We continue talking about people who know how to dish out beatings like hotcakes, and Jason Bourne knows more about that than anyone. He may be less elegant than James Bond, but he can resolve an international conflict just as effectively.
Between the chases and action scenes in this 2007 film, you’ll see, sometimes in passing and sometimes in more detail, places you’re sure to recognise, such as Paseo de la Castellana, Atocha Station and Las Ventas Bullring.
And this is where the magic of Hollywood comes in, because even though you recognise Madrid, they will pull their tricks and tell you it’s Turin, but you’re very smart and you’re not so easily fooled.
Way Down
A blockbuster film that tells the story of a group of thieves’ plan to steal something (whether they succeed or not, you’ll have to find out for yourself; we’re not going to give away any spoilers here).
The film is set during the 2010 World Cup final in South Africa, at the Bank of Spain, so you can imagine all the action taking place here, with the monuments and landmarks you’ll see: the Bank of Spain, Plaza de Cibeles and the Metropolis building, among many others.
Among the famous actors who appear in this blockbuster, you’ll recognise Freddie Highmore from The Good Doctor, Liam Cunningham from Game of Thrones, and our own actors Luis Tosar and José Coronado.
La Fría luz del día
Having your family kidnapped may not be your idea of a perfect holiday, but just ask Martin, played by Bruce Willis. In this action film, Bruce Willis is joined by actors of the calibre of Sigourney Weaver and a young Henry Cavill.
As the film unfolds, you will recognise places such as El Rastro, Las Ventas Bullring and Calle Alcalá.
Where to stay and spend the night in Madrid
If you want to sleep like a dream, let us give you a movie-worthy recommendation: CATS Hostel. Come and enjoy the best atmosphere in the city, the perfect place to start and end your day.
Choose your room type and have a great time surrounded by people from all over the world, the best pub crawl in town and facilities and common areas worthy of the best hotel, but at hostel prices. The best price in the best location, are you a cat? Come to CATS Hostel.