Unveiling the Life of a Spanish Actress
On a peaceful afternoon, before the tragedy of the Valencia flood, we met at the Ateneo de Madrid, a place well-known to her as she had frequented the auditorium of her major lecture, both above and below the stage. Before turning on the recorder, and at her request, we chatted extensively about the sorrows and joys of life. I recall an interview from 15 years ago, on the eve of her decision to leave the series Aída, written for her after the public fell in love with her character in Siete vidas, in which she appeared both happy and sad to say goodbye. She tells me that the recent loss of her mother still deeply affects her. Until we officially agreed to start the interview and, although she remains equally cordial and approachable, she appears more restrained. We are gathered here to talk about Celeste (on Movistar Plus+), the series that Diego San José, co-writer of Ocho apellidos vascos, has also written with her in mind. The first question is a given.
Feeling Like a Muse
What does it feel like to be considered a muse?
She feels a tremendous responsibility. It is assumed that she will be able to bring the character from paper to life. But, in addition, I admire Diego very much and I want to please him even more. In him, comedy, which I respect very much, always has an incredible intelligence behind it. He knows more than I do about everything. So, first I say yes, and then I’ll figure out how to do it.
And you will have your share of suffering.
Oh no. I’m going to enjoy it, I’m super happy. When I have faith in the people I’m going to work with, I dive in and I know I’m going to have a wonderful adventure. Diego writes from the heart. Elena Trapé, the director, really digs deep into your soul…
Acting with Emotion
… Do you also act with emotion?
Yes, but the Spanish kind of emotion, not the Argentine one, which is really tasty when grilled, by the way. I like to go to work with a blank slate. I’m not one of those actresses who come with proposals, I’m very lazy. I read the stage directions, listen to what the director says, and start to digest all that information. For me, Sara Santano, my character, is not just a tax inspector, she’s a woman. And I’m interested in that woman, I like her, I connect with her, I want to understand her.
How do you transition from joy to deep sorrow in 15 seconds?
They say the camera sees right through you. When I saw myself in that scene, I didn’t even realize I had done that. There’s a guideline from the director, and then you think about it. You can also be thinking about how you left the lentils on the stove, mind you, but in this case, there was a lot of intensity, a lot of silence, and silence must be filled with emotion, there’s no other way.
Embracing Imperfections
The camera focuses on the imperfections of your character. How do you see yourself on screen?
I’m very clear that the character on screen is not me, I’ve never cared about that. I’ve never relied on my looks, I’ve never suffered from the tyranny of beauty, and we know what we’re talking about. There are outstanding actresses who are also incredibly beautiful, and it’s not just because of their looks that they have a career. But in my case, it’s been a bit of the opposite. I’m very clear that most of the characters I’ve been offered are normal women. What many don’t know is that there is no such thing as a normal woman. So, I play ordinary women who are extraordinary in the sense that they are survivors, which is the norm for a woman. From Aída, who was an abused woman, illiterate, with a delinquent son and a prostitute neighbor, but she was the one who had the most sex in the neighborhood, to Sara Montano, a model civil servant who never stepped out of line. There’s a whole internal world in women when you see them alone. That’s what I aim to recreate.
Sources of Inspiration
Where do you draw inspiration from to create these characters?
I have lived and experienced it all. I have done many theater performances and I was always the last one to go home at night. You see, I’m a child of the Madrid scene. I’ve enjoyed living, lived intensely, slept very little, and had a great time.
You speak in the past tense, have you retired from that life?
Not entirely, but there comes a point where you start to get bored, you prefer dinners with friends or your partner. And, above all, I like waking up without a hangover, which is one of the most wonderful things. But, going back to your question, I’ve drawn from life itself. I have this theory that all characters are created or exist out there, and I am very, very observant, very much so.
The Craft of Acting
Is that the craft of an actress?
Yes, but there’s one thing that isn’t merit, it’s something you’re born with, then you can do it well or poorly, waste it or make the most of it. You can learn the craft, but you have to have the raw material, that strange gift. What’s commendable is making something productive out of it, and if you can make a living out of it, well, that’s great. Andrea Agassi said in his book Open that actors are elite athletes. He had an actress partner, and I think it’s a fabulous definition.
For the hard training, the competition, why?
Because you have to take care of many things: discipline, rigor, tenacity, fair and legitimate ambition.
Carmen Machi: A Versatile Actress
Known for her remarkable performances on stage and screen, Carmen Machi has captivated audiences with her talent and versatility. From her breakout roles in the early 2000s to her recent work in acclaimed series and films, Machi’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Early Life and Training
Hailing from Getafe, Madrid, Carmen Machi’s passion for acting was evident from a young age. She honed her skills at the prestigious Taormina theater school, La Abadía theater, and through training as a flamenco and contemporary dancer. This diverse background laid the foundation for Machi’s successful career in the performing arts.
Rise to Stardom
Machi first gained widespread recognition for her role in the hit series “Siete vidas” in the early 2000s. However, it was her iconic portrayal of the title character in the spin-off series “Aída” that truly solidified her status as a household name. Her compelling performances and undeniable talent set her apart in the Spanish entertainment industry.
Accolades and Achievements
Throughout her career, Carmen Machi has garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards for her work. Notably, she was honored as Best Supporting Actress for her role in “Ocho apellidos vascos,” showcasing her range and depth as an actress. Machi’s dedication to her craft and ability to inhabit diverse characters have earned her a place among Spain’s most respected performers.
Challenges and Reflections
Embracing Ambition
Contrary to popular belief, ambition is not a negative trait. Carmen Machi emphasizes the importance of setting goals and striving for excellence in both life and work. Ambition drives her to constantly improve and deliver compelling performances that resonate with audiences.
Future Endeavors
At 61, Carmen Machi remains focused on her craft, with no shortage of projects on the horizon. While she values the opportunity to rest and recharge, she approaches each new challenge with enthusiasm and dedication. Machi’s commitment to her work is unwavering, ensuring that she continues to push boundaries and explore new creative opportunities.
Impact of Culture and Society
In her role as an actress, Carmen Machi sheds light on societal issues and challenges prevalent attitudes towards taxation and public services. She advocates for a greater understanding of the role of taxation in supporting essential services and emphasizes the importance of cultural funding in nurturing artistic expression.
Closing Thoughts
Carmen Machi’s journey as an actress is a testament to her passion, talent, and resilience. From her early days in theater to her current success on screen, she has consistently pushed the boundaries of performance and storytelling. As she navigates the highs and lows of life and career, Machi’s unwavering dedication to her craft sets her apart as a true icon of Spanish cinema and television.
FAQs
What are Carmen Machi’s most notable roles?
Carmen Machi is best known for her roles in the series “Siete vidas” and “Aída,” as well as her award-winning performance in “Ocho apellidos vascos.” Her versatile talent and captivating presence have made her a beloved figure in Spanish entertainment.
How does Carmen Machi approach challenges in her career?
Carmen Machi embraces ambition and sees each new project as an opportunity to grow and evolve as an actress. She values the importance of rest and self-care while maintaining a steadfast commitment to her craft.
**Title: The Rise of E-commerce During the COVID-19 Pandemic**
**Introduction:**
The global COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the way people shop and conduct business. With lockdowns and social distancing measures in place, traditional brick-and-mortar stores have seen a decline in foot traffic, while e-commerce has experienced a surge in popularity. In this article, we will explore the rise of e-commerce during the pandemic, its impact on businesses and consumers, and what the future of online shopping may look like.
**The Impact of COVID-19 on E-commerce**
**E-commerce Surges in Popularity**
– Online shopping has become the preferred method of purchasing goods and services due to the convenience and safety it offers.
– Retail giants such as Amazon and Walmart have seen a significant increase in online sales, as consumers turn to e-commerce for their shopping needs.
– Small businesses have also shifted their operations online to reach a wider audience and stay afloat during these challenging times.
**Changes in Consumer Behavior**
– Consumers are now more inclined to shop online for everyday essentials, groceries, and even big-ticket items like furniture and electronics.
– The shift towards online shopping is expected to continue even after the pandemic subsides, as consumers have become accustomed to the convenience of e-commerce.
– Safety concerns and the desire for contactless shopping have driven the increased adoption of online shopping platforms.
**The Future of E-commerce Post-Pandemic**
**Increased Competition in the Online Marketplace**
– As more businesses transition to e-commerce, competition in the online marketplace is expected to intensify.
– Companies will need to focus on enhancing their online presence, optimizing their websites for search engines, and providing a seamless shopping experience to stand out from the competition.
**Technological Advancements in E-commerce**
– The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of technologies such as AI, AR, and virtual reality in e-commerce.
– These technologies not only enhance the shopping experience for consumers but also provide valuable data and insights for businesses to improve their marketing strategies and customer engagement.
**Conclusion:**
The COVID-19 pandemic has forever changed the way we shop and do business. E-commerce has emerged as a dominant force in the retail industry, with businesses and consumers alike embracing the convenience and safety it offers. As we look towards the future, it is clear that e-commerce will continue to evolve and shape the way we shop and interact with brands.
**FAQs**
1. How has the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the growth of e-commerce?
– The pandemic has accelerated the growth of e-commerce as consumers turn to online shopping for their everyday needs.
2. Will the shift towards e-commerce be permanent?
– It is likely that the shift towards e-commerce will be permanent, as consumers have become accustomed to the convenience and safety it offers.
3. What can businesses do to stay competitive in the online marketplace?
– Businesses can stay competitive by focusing on their online presence, optimizing their websites, and leveraging technology to enhance the shopping experience for consumers.