Bernardo Arsuaga Cardenas is a Director and Producer in the documentary filmmaking industry, based in Monterrey, Mexico. He is a partner at a post-production studio and is known for award-winning documentaries that have screened around the world.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?
I’m a documentary director and producer, and I’m also a partner in a post-production studio. My work focuses on telling real stories in a way that keeps people engaged and emotionally connected. Before filmmaking, I spent many years working as a lawyer, which helped me understand structure, planning, and long-term commitment. Those skills transferred naturally into film, where ideas only succeed if they are supported by discipline and follow-through.
How would you describe your personal or professional vibe in 3 words?
Creative, constant, and disciplined. Creativity helps me imagine stories and approaches. Constancy keeps projects moving even when progress feels slow. Discipline is what allows a film to go from an idea to a finished product that can reach an audience.
What’s one fun fact about you most people don’t know?
I’m deeply into endurance sports. I ride enduro mountain bikes, sail, and ski regularly. These activities help clear my mind and often lead to creative breakthroughs when I’m stuck on a project.
What’s your favorite TV show right now?
I tend to gravitate toward series with strong character development. I enjoy shows that respect the audience and take the time to build a story rather than relying on shortcuts. Some of my favorite series that reflect that approach include Miami Vice, Crime Story, and The Sopranos, all of which balance atmosphere, character depth, and long-form storytelling.
What’s your most-used social media app these days?
Instagram. I use it mainly to follow filmmakers, festivals, athletes, and creative projects. It’s less about posting and more about observing what others are creating.
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What was the first social media app you ever joined?
Facebook. At the time, it felt new and simple. It was about connection rather than content, which is very different from how platforms work today.
Are there any influencers or creators you never miss content from?
I don’t follow influencers in the traditional sense. I pay attention to filmmakers, documentarians, and athletes who show dedication to their craft. Consistency and depth matter more to me than popularity.
Are there any must-follow accounts or pages for people in your industry?
Film festivals, post-production communities, and thoughtful curators are essential for staying grounded in where the industry is headed and how audiences respond to serious storytelling. I also closely follow The Criterion Collection and Janus Films for their commitment to film history and preservation, as well as filmmakers whose work has shaped cinematic language, including Emir Kusturica, Bernardo Bertolucci, Paolo Sorrentino, Giuseppe Tornatore, Miloš Forman, Stanley Kubrick, and Werner Herzog.
Do you listen to any podcasts related to your field or niche?
Yes. I listen to podcasts about filmmaking, creativity, and storytelling, as well as interviews with people who have built long careers in creative fields. I enjoy hearing how others solve problems, and I also dedicate time to listening to classic audiobooks, which offer a different but equally valuable perspective on storytelling and craft.
What’s the best advice you’ve heard from a podcast or interview?
Those ideas are common, but execution is rare. Turning an idea into a plan and working on it consistently is what separates finished projects from unfinished ones.
If you could collab with any influencer or celeb, who would it be?
I prefer collaborating with people who respect the process and care about the story. When everyone involved values preparation and honesty, the work becomes stronger.
What’s a habit, hack, or tool you swear by for staying informed or inspired?
Keeping an open mind and staying curious. I try to learn something new every day, whether through reading, watching films, or having conversations. That constant input feeds creativity over time.
