Gernika Lives Documentary

The little town of Gernika was blazed mercilessly, killing a third of the townspeople as a pre -Spanish Civil War warning attack aided by combined nazi - fascist allied forces on the side of Franco. This was the first ever air raid, and the initial test ground for the emerging new technology called blitzkrieg, where large masses of innocent civilians would mercilessly be attacked from the air with falling bombs.  

This evil event prompted Picasso to paint the famous work of art, Guernica.

This documentary film was shot in 1987 for the 50th Anniversary of the bombing of Gernika.  It is made up of interviews with the survivors, as they remember that horrific day on April 26, 1937 and continue to endlessly question why their identity must be threatened and their ancient precious culture defamed by outside forces. The Basques are considered to be the indigenous tribesmen of Europe, and Gernika is the heart and holy land of Euskadi.  

My father, Jesus Plazaetxea, was born in Gernika, and as a child I would hear him tell me about his excruciatingly painful and traumatic memories of the horrors that he, his family and all those around him experienced during that historical bombing, and the ensuing Spanish Civil War. He was only six years old, but still to this, vividly recalls, day the atrocities he endured and the regretful consequences of this evil and never-ending attack.

It was a beautiful Monday, market day, when all the surrounding villagers gather in Gernika’s plaza to sell their produce and goods. Women, men and children from all around were in Gernika, celebrating this traditional outside fair.  

Most of the people interviewed are now dead, but I feel fortunate to have been able to stand before them, and hear their heartfelt pleading words that no more dreadful mistakes be made.  

By exposing the impact and damage that violence inflicts on our fragile humanity, with this personal film I hope to stimulate compassion and peace throughout.    

To purchase a DVD copy, please email:  begonya@begonyaplaza.com