Spanish directors have been hailed by artists like Woody Allen as talented and unique. The force of European Cinema can be attributed to the strong individualistic and artistic approach of the films created by notable Spanish directors. Their strength is on how they are able to tackle complex stories, controversial topics and characters into sensational films with universal appeal. Of the many notable film makers throughout the 20^th century and the beginning of the 21^st century, 2 film makers are still considered as the top of the list: Luis Bunuel and Pedro Almodovar.

A highly controversial filmmaker, Luis Bunuel was a true artist and definitely a modern one. Taking inspiration from artists like Salvador Dali and Marquis de Sade, Bunuel’s films often have the same surrealist flair and sensuality. One of his most popular works during his career was Death in the Garden, a film presented in 1956 which was not just highly acclaimed but also star studded. Some, if not, most of his films present very controversial topics such as the mockery of the Roman Catholic Church which was dominant in Spain and majority of the world. Bunuel is also notable for films like The Forgotten, Ascent to Heaven, and of course, Belle de Jour.

Pedro Almodovar is unarguably, the most renowned and popular filmmakers of his generation, crossing over from local to international fame. A director, producer and screenwriter, Almodovar is notable for his use of melodrama on complex storyline and a knack for using pop culture as well as identifiable visuals. Almodovar’s films were very popular across the world especially those films like La Ley Del Deseo, Mujeres al Borde de un Ataque de Nervios, Tacones Lejanos, La Mala Educacion and Volver. Almodovar continues to gain international recognition and has been highly popular due to his rich manner of storytelling.