El Clásico: More Than A Game

“El Clásico: More Than A Game” is a CSU, Chico documentary directed and shot by students during the 2010 La Liga season in Spain. This exciting and informative film was shot on location in Barcelona and Madrid. It explores Spanish history, culture and regional identity through the intense and world-renowned soccer rivalry between Real Madrid and F.C. Barcelona.

In April 2010 nine CSU, Chico students spent two weeks in Barcelona and Madrid on a soccer adventure. They had the opportunity to interview world-famous soccer stars Cristiano Ronaldo Thierry Henry, Iker Casillas as well as journalists, politicians and historians. They attended two major games, one of which was the El Clásico, the titanic battle between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona. This game is one of the most famous and widely watched sporting events in the world. Throughout the process the students learned that this monumental rivalry is not just a game of soccer but a way of understanding the very complex culture, history, and regional identity of Spain.

The film project was initiated and overseen by Chico State Alumni and film-maker Kelly Candaele www.KellyCandaele.com and produced by another Chico State Alum, Cathy Growdon and co-produced by Celia Brugman.

The student team believes that this project will stimulate an important discussion about how sports and athletic events have an impact far beyond the stadiums where they are held.

The Administration of Chico State University has been a strong supporter of this academic and film project.

For more information please contact:
Kelly Candaele: Kcandaele@sbcglobal.net