The Matador

Mar 10 2008 Not Rated 1h 14m
Documentary

Growing up in Granada, Spain, young David Fandila always dreamed of being a matador. This documentary captures the rise of "El Fandi," one of Spain's most renowned bullfighters, who first entered the ring at age 14. While it's never in doubt that Fandila is at the top of his game, filmmakers Stephen Higgins and Nina Gilden Seavey weigh the significance of bullfighting as a cultural tradition against its inherent danger and cruelty.

Plot

We follow David Fandila, "El Fandi" (1981- ), in 2003, 2004, and 2005, three bullfighting seasons in Spain, as he seeks to become the 13th person in history to kill 100 bulls in a season. His older brother dedicated his life to being David's second. He sees little of his fiancée. His parents also assist his success. We watch him train and then fight: he's swift and theatrical. His is one of several voices explaining the sport and its meaning in Spain. Protestors speak out as well. Injury is close at hand. We watch El Fandi in surgery after a goring; he returns that day to the ring. We see gallantry, courage, and showmanship. Will he reach his goal?

Written by

N/A

Directed by

Stephen Higgins, Nina Gilden Seavey

Cast

David Fandila

Crew

View crew

Production Countries

United States of America, Spain

Production Companies

Matador Films

Languages

Español, English

Awards

1 win & 2 nominations

Trailers
The Matador [2008] - Movie Trailer
?? THE MATADOR (2008) | Full Movie Trailer | Full HD | 1080p
Scores
# of Votes
188
Average Rating
6.6 out of 10
Metascore
56
Popularity
NA