The film and television director Josefina Molina has passed away at the age of 89, leaving an indelible legacy in the history of Spanish cinema. Considered a pioneer, visionary, risk-taker, fighter, and feminist, Molina was one of the few women of her generation who managed to break into film directing, a field historically dominated by men.
Trained at the Official School of Cinematography, she became the first woman to obtain a directing degree, setting a precedent that inspired several subsequent generations. Her career was marked by a commitment to stories that blended historical rigor, sensitivity, and narrative strength.
Among her most outstanding works are feature films such as Esquilache and landmark television series like Teresa de Jesús, which consolidated her prestige both inside and outside Spain. Furthermore, Molina also shone in the theater, directing emblematic productions such as Cinco horas con Mario at the Bellas Artes Theatre in Madrid.
Her contribution was recognized with numerous awards, including the Goya of Honor in 2012, being the first female director to receive it, and the National Cinematography Award in 2019, consolidating her status as an undisputed benchmark of Spanish culture.
Molina leaves a legacy that transcends her filmography: she opened doors for female representation behind the cameras, defended creativity with courage, and contributed to Spanish cinema incorporating new voices, stories, and perspectives. Her work and example will continue to inspire filmmakers, actors, and audiences alike.