How did the idea of filming this documentary come about?

The idea of creating an audiovisual about the relationship that Benito Ansola, a priest from Lekeitio, has had with cinema throughout his life has always been an idea that has been in the air. Over the years, this project was shelved, but when the opportunity arose to create an audiovisual about Basque cinema and in the Basque language, it became clear that Benito's story was the perfect thread for this tale, and so ‘Zortzitik infinitura’ was born. With Benito's story as a guide, this film tells the evolution of Basque and Basque-language cinema.

Were there any notable obstacles in the initial phase of the project?

The most difficult job in the initial phase of this project was selecting the protagonists who would underpin the narrative and fitting their interviews into our filming plan. We had specific days to conduct the interviews, and matching the schedules of the protagonists with our filming conditions was not an easy task.

What criteria were used to select the cast?

It was indisputable that the main character or thread would be Benito Ansola, and from the beginning it was clear to us that Miren Agur Meabe would guide the documentary. Lekeitiarra, Benito's acquaintance and friend, as well as being a very prominent figure in Basque culture. The criteria for selecting the protagonists was also clear. The list of interviewees should be made up of people who have had an influence on Basque cinema and cinema in the Basque language, those who have lived through the evolution of cinema and have left their mark. Their experiences and episodes enrich the story.

What has the recording experience been like?

It has been a special, enriching and unique experience, with all its challenges and difficulties. The creation of this documentary has shown me the obstacles and difficulties that local cinema has had to overcome to reach what we call ‘the rise of Basque cinema’. And how important it is to give Basque-language cinema its place in the promotion of Basque language and culture, as it is a fundamental showcase for our culture.

'From Eight To Infinity' will be screened in the Zinemira section of the San Sebastian Film Festival. How did you receive the news?

I received the news with surprise and joy because getting into the Zinemira section is not an award to be taken light heartedly. This is an enormous achievement, taking into account the weight and influence that Zinemira has on Basque cinema. It has been, without a doubt, the greatest award we could have achieved with the documentary.

In your opinion, how will the documentary be received by the public?

The Zinemira audience is one that generates a lot of respect. My only wish is that it serves to teach a little more about Basque and Basque-language cinema, and to raise awareness of the contribution that people such as Benito Ansola and festivals such as Euskal Zine Bilera in Lekeitio have made to local cinema.

What are the plans for the film after the festival?

As for this year's calendar, after Zinemira we will present the documentary at other festivals, such as the Euskal Zine Bilera in Lekeitio and ZINEBI, among others.

Do you have any other projects in the pipeline?

There are some projects underway, but they need to take shape to be realised. It is difficult to know if we will be able to carry it out, but we hope that ‘Zortzitik infinitura’ will give us a little push to achieve it.