Just eight months after premiering in the Special Presentations section of the 2015 Toronto International Film Festival in Spain, "Ma Ma" will make its U.S. debut. The movie, directed by Julio Medem and starring Penelope Cruz, tells the story of a woman (Cruz), who is diagnosed with breast cancer and forms a strong bond with a man, who lost his wife and daughter in a car accident.
"The movie talks about that, of how we need to face unexpected things," Cruz told People en Español, adding that her character is a strong woman who is struggling with death. In "Ma Ma," the 42-year-old Academy Award winner portrays Magda, an unemployed teacher who receives a diagnosis of breast cancer and battles the disease with courage and optimism. According to Cruz, her character is "an example of struggle, and a life lesson on how to deal with a tragedy."
"I was able to identify, well, I understood her," she shared to People en Español about her role. "Thank God that I've never been in a difficult situation like hers," she said, describing Magda's breast cancer as a monster that tries to take everything away from her, including her life and relationship with her son.
"It was very difficult," Cruz, wife of Javier Bardem, said of her role. "But at the same time I learned a lot from it and I'm in love with this character," she added, stating that Magda represents a life lesson, strength and optimism.
In an interview with EFE, Cruz stated, "I read the full script of MA MA in one night, and I fell in love with the story. The topics covered are very difficult, but it is not a depressing film. When the film ends, it makes you want to hug your family and tell them how much you love them. I feel happy because the movie delivers this message."
"Ma Ma" will debut in select theaters in Miami, Los Angeles and New York on Friday, May 20.
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