IN CONVERSATION WITH MINA EL HAMMANI

interview by JANA LETONJA

Actress Mina El Hammani will next be seen in the film ‘Raqa’, premiering on 22nd November. She is also known from starring in the immensely popular Netflix series ‘Élite’, which aired its final season this Summer.

sweater and coat YOHJI YAMAMOTO
boots MM6 MARTIN MARGIELA

‘Raqa’ deals with serious issues like terrorism and conflict. How do you feel about being part of a project that addresses such challenging subjects?

I feel very grateful to be part of a project like ‘Raqa’. Addressing serious topics such as terrorism and conflict is essential, as it allows us to reflect on realities that affect many people around the world. I believe it is important to tell these stories responsibly, to raise awareness and foster dialogue about these issues. I hope the film can contribute to a better understanding of these topics and the search for solutions.

jacket GIORGIO ARMANI

In the film, you play Malika, a nurse working with Europol. What kind of preparation did you undergo for this role, especially considering the film’s intense themes?

I worked on my emotional interpretation to convey the intensity and humanity of the character. All of this helped me bring Malika to life in an authentic and respectful way, considering the serious themes that the film addresses. 

I physically prepared with specialists to ensure that my performance was as realistic as possible. For me, it was essential to work closely with my colleagues, especially with Álvaro, who brought incredible energy to set and an authentic connection in our scenes together. I also want to highlight Abdelatif, our Arabic coach, who was fundamental in my preparation. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to share this journey with them, as their support and talent made my portrayal of Malika even more authentic and powerful.

full look KENZO

What is in your opinion the biggest and most important message of this film to the audience?

The biggest message of the film is that no matter where you live or what religion you practice, terrorists seek to promote chaos and fear, regardless of who you are. In the character of Malika, I found a strong motivation to create change and make the world a safer place. Her determination and compassion are inspiring, and I hope the audience can feel that desire to build a better future.

This Summer, you also returned for the final season of ‘Élite’. How did it feel to return to a series that has been such a significant part of your career?

I felt very grateful to be able to close a chapter and, above all, to have the opportunity to do so with my family Shana in ‘Élite’. It is rare to have the chance to bring a project to a close, and I hope the audience enjoyed this experience as much as we did. It has been a very meaningful journey.

full look DOLCE & GABBANA
shoes LESILLA

coat ALBERTA FERRETTI
shoes BALMAIN

How do you think ‘Élite’ influenced your career and the representation of young people in Spanish television?

‘Élite’ has been a turning point in my career. I was fortunate to work on other projects before, but ‘Élite’ opened the doors to a much greater reach and countless opportunities. The representation of young people in the series, although fictional and constructed from the perspective of the scriptwriters, has had a significant impact.

It is true that it does not represent everyone, but it had been a while since we had a teen series in Spain that captured so much attention and resonated with the audience. The way it addresses relevant and current issues has connected with a new generation.

You started your acting journey at a young age. What inspired you to pursue a career in acting, and how did you get your start in the industry?

Since I was very young, I knew I wanted to pursue acting. My innate curiosity and desire to understand the human experience led me to choose this path. I have always been fascinated by the fact that no two people are the same. Each person has their own story, experiences and a rich personality that presents a true challenge for me as an actress.

jacket and skirt DOLCE & GABBANA
sunglasses LINDA FARROW

Who are some of your biggest influences in the acting world? Are there any specific performances that inspired you?

I love Viola Davis, Julieta Serrano and Al Pacino. Each of them has left an indelible mark on the world of acting, and their dedication to the art is truly inspiring. 

I remember watching the documentary ‘Looking for Richard’, where he portrays Richard III. The way he approaches his characters, with such dedication and deep analysis, left me impressed, and that’s when I thought I want to work like that and delve deeply into characters.

Looking ahead, what types of roles or projects are you hoping to explore in your career?

I would love to continue making films and create very different characters that require deep reflection. I want to push the boundaries of acting and explore stories that challenge me. I also have a great interest in comedy. I believe that making people laugh is one of the greatest challenges in acting, and I would like to try my hand at this genre.

full look LOEWE

When you are not acting, what are some of your other passions in life?

I love spending time with my people, whether it's going to the movies or enjoying a nice dinner. I am a big food lover and I enjoy trying restaurants from different culinary cultures. I also really enjoy quiet moments at home. There’s nothing like lounging on the sofa with my cats, watching ‘The Simpsons’.

Aside from ‘Raqa’, what can you share with us about your other upcoming projects?

I am starring in the film ‘La Tierra de Amira’, directed by Roberto Jiménez, in which I share the screen with Manuel Morón and Pilar Gómez. Working with them has been an incredible experience.

I am also involved with my production company, QUIET, where we are co-producing the short film ‘El Monstruo de la Fortuna’, directed by Manuel Castillo and produced by Sierra Produce. This project has been a great opportunity for me to contribute and collaborate with such a passionate team.

full look BALMAIN

TEAM CREDITS:
talent MINA EL HAMMANI
photography ANDRÉS GARCÍA LUJÁN
styling FREDDY ALONSO
makeup and hair YOS BAUTE AT ONE-OFF ARTISTS FOR CHARLOTTE TILBURY
photography assistant ISABEL ANDUEZA
styling assistant ANDREA ORTIZ
video EDUARDO RODRÍGUEZ
editor TIMI LETONJA
editorial director & interview JANA LETONJA
cover design ARTHUR ROELOFZEN