Thirteen feature films directed by Antonio Isasi-Isasmendi spanned a career that began in the post-war Spanish studio system and reached audiences across the wider European market. Active from 1927 until 2017, Isasi-Isasmendi operated as a multifaceted technician, navigating the roles of screenwriter, producer, editor, and director within the evolving landscape of 20th-century cinema.
Early Production and Technical Roles
Born in Madrid, Isasi-Isasmendi initially established his presence in the film industry at Emisora Films. His early career involved diverse responsibilities, serving as an assistant manager, scriptwriter, and film editor. Between 1949 and 1954, he worked as an editor on notable projects, including In a Corner of Spain, My Beloved Juan, and Apartado de correos 1001. By 1955, he solidified his independence by founding Producciones Isasi in Barcelona, later establishing Moon Films in Madrid to further his production goals.
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During the 1960s, he pivoted toward large-scale action features targeted at international audiences. This period saw the release of The Adventures of Scaramouche in 1963 and That Man in Istanbul in 1965. His ambition expanded further into English-language productions, most notably with the 1968 feature They Came to Rob Las Vegas. He received professional recognition during this time, including the Prize of the National Syndicate of Spectacle for Best Director in 1965.
Later Career and Industry Recognition
Following the release of the 1977 film El Perro, Isasi-Isasmendi stepped away from the director's chair for a decade. He focused on distribution and production before returning to direct El Aire de un Crimen in 1987. In 1981, he served on the jury at the 31st Berlin International Film Festival. His contributions were honored with the Honorary Goya Award in 1999 and the Gold Medal of Merit in the Fine Arts in 2008. He also held the titles of Commander of the Order of Isabella the Catholic and carried the Collar of the Spanish Order of the Civil Merit.
Fast facts
- Born: 22 March 1927, Madrid
- Died: 28 September 2017, Ibiza
- Total feature films directed: 13
- Total films written: 11
- Total films produced: 8
- Honorary Goya Award: 1999
- Gold Medal of Merit in the Fine Arts: 2008
- Citizenship: Spain
Questions readers ask
Which production companies did Isasi-Isasmendi establish?
He founded Producciones Isasi in Barcelona in 1955 and later created a second company called Moon Films in Madrid.
Did he work on films in English?
Yes, he directed English-language films, most notably the 1968 production They Came to Rob Las Vegas.
Achievements
- Commander of the Order of Isabella the Catholic
- Collar of the Spanish Order of the Civil Merit
- Worked as film director, screenwriter and film producer
