Rodrigo Cortés is a highly regarded Spanish film director, editor, screenwriter, producer, and occasional actor. Born in Vigo, Galicia, in 1973, Cortés has cultivated a distinctive style that often explores themes of suspense, psychological tension, and dark humor, often within minimalist settings.
Cortés first gained international attention with his 2010 thriller, Buried. The film, starring Ryan Reynolds, is set entirely within a coffin buried underground. This claustrophobic premise, coupled with Reynolds’ compelling performance, captivated audiences and critics alike. Buried showcased Cortés’ masterful command of atmosphere and tension, proving he could create a gripping narrative with severe limitations in both location and character interaction. The film earned him a Goya Award for Best Director.
Following the success of Buried, Cortés directed Red Lights (2012), a thriller starring Robert De Niro, Sigourney Weaver, and Cillian Murphy. This film delved into the world of paranormal phenomena and psychic investigation, exploring themes of skepticism, belief, and the power of the human mind. While Red Lights received mixed reviews compared to Buried, it demonstrated Cortés’ ambition and willingness to tackle larger-scale productions with established actors.
In 2018, Cortés directed Blackwood, a supernatural mystery based on the novel of the same name by Lois Duncan. The film stars AnnaSophia Robb, Uma Thurman, and Isabelle Fuhrman and centers on a young woman who attends a mysterious boarding school and discovers its dark secrets. Although Blackwood also garnered mixed reactions, it further highlighted Cortés’ ability to create visually arresting and atmospheric films, even within more conventional genre frameworks.
Beyond feature films, Cortés has also worked on various television projects, including directing episodes of the horror anthology series Room 104. He has also written and directed short films and commercials, demonstrating a diverse range of creative pursuits.
Cortés is known for his meticulous attention to detail and his hands-on approach to filmmaking, often serving as the editor of his own films. He is also known for his sharp wit and intellectual curiosity, often reflected in his interviews and public appearances. He is a director who is unafraid to take risks and experiment with different genres and narrative structures, making him a unique and compelling voice in contemporary cinema. His ability to create intense psychological thrillers with limited resources has cemented his reputation as a master of suspense and a true innovator in filmmaking.