Patria (HBO)

About Patria (HBO)

"Patria" is a dramatic Spanish television series that premiered on HBO in 2020. The series is a haunting depiction of the terror inflicted on a Spanish Basque town by ETA, an armed separatist movement. It explores the impact of political turmoil and violence on the lives of two families, over a span of three decades. The focus is also on the intimate exploration of homegrown terrorism, its victims, and those who are indirectly affected.

Making / Production

The series is created and written by Aitor Gabilondo, based on the bestselling novel Patria by Fernando Aramburu. The series was shot entirely in the Basque Country, authenticating the rawness and intensity of its narrative. The production unbelievably manages to capture the essence of a picturesque town grappling with terror, hate, and fear.

Actors

• Ane Gabarain as Bittori - Portraying the character of a woman who seeks the truth about her husband's murder, Ane gives a heart-wrenching performance.
• Elena Irureta as Miren - Featuring as Bittori's childhood friend, Elena excellently shows the transformation of an affectionate woman to a resolute mother of an ETA member.
• Jon Olivares as Gorka - Jon effectively plays the role of a homosexual tormented in an atmosphere of political unrest.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Patria marks the first HBO Europe production conducted entirely in Spain.
• The series is based on the acclaimed novel "Patria" by Fernando Aramburu, which was a bestseller in Spain and has been translated into more than 30 languages.

Awards

The series notably bagged the 'Best Drama Series' at the 8th Feroz Awards.

Quotes

• "There are always two sides to every tale, Miren." - Bittori
• "This is where we are... where we've always been. Just us two." - Txato

Music, Soundtrack

• The series features a gripping score by Spanish composer Fernando Velázquez who subtly enhances the tense, dramatic moments in the series.