Born in Barcelona in 1960, José Luis Guerín is a filmmaker whose work defies easy categorization, spanning diverse aesthetic and thematic approaches. His filmography includes unique works such as 'Innisfree' (1990), an essay on John Ford's 'The Quiet Man' (1952), and 'Tren de Sombras' (1997), which blends fiction and documentary. His latest film, 'Tales of the Good Valley' (winner of the Special Jury Prize at the San Sebastián Film Festival), arrives in Portuguese cinemas on Thursday, March 19. While it is a documentary about Vallbona, a peripheral neighbourhood in Barcelona, Guerín's approach avoids common sociological clichés. The film uses a mix of black-and-white footage and improvisation to explore the history of the area, which was once intended to be a garden city before the Spanish Civil War changed its trajectory. By starting with a casting process, Guerín captures the diverse faces and memories of the residents, creating a respectful and cinematic portrait of this unique urban island.