In a recent interview, renowned filmmaker José Luis Guerin emphasized the vital role that authenticity plays in cinema, especially when capturing the essence of marginalized neighborhoods. His latest work, 'Historias del buen valle,' which won the jury prize at the San Sebastián festival, highlights the life in Vallbona, one of Barcelona's most isolated areas. Guerin criticized the trend of filmmakers making lofty statements, insisting that such declarations hinder the genuine engagement between audiences and films.

Guerin, who is known for his commitment to storytelling that reflects real-life experiences, chose to meet in Vallbona to emphasize the importance of the setting in his documentary work. He expressed discomfort with sensational headlines that misrepresent his views, arguing that they often come across as pretentious and detract from the authenticity he strives to showcase in his films. In exploring Vallbona, Guerin sheds light on the community's struggles, resilience, and cultural richness, which he believes are often overlooked by mainstream media.

By bringing attention to the issues faced by communities like Vallbona, Guerin not only aims to tell their stories but also to shift the narrative around peripheral neighborhoods. His perspective suggests that the cinematic focus should not solely rest on glamorous city centers but also embrace the unique, often difficult, realities that exist on the fringes, proposing a more inclusive lens through which to view society and its stories.