Stories like this are rare in Spanish cinema—a young actor not only starring alongside a celebrated star, but also forming a close friendship. Manus Vega, just 32 years old, found himself in precisely this situation: his collaboration with Ana Belén on the set of the film ‘Islas’ not only launched a new stage in his career but also led to a genuine friendship with one of the country’s most respected actresses. This development is already being discussed within professional circles, as such connections often spark new creative partnerships and shape the industry’s direction.
As reported by Divinity, Vega quickly found common ground with Ana Belén, despite the difference in age and status. Filming wrapped in just three weeks, but during that short period, a sense of mutual respect and support grew between the actors. Vega notes that working with Ana Belén turned out to be surprisingly easy—she shows no signs of diva behavior and remains approachable and hard-working. In turn, the actress openly expresses her fondness for her young colleague, praising his sincerity and professionalism. Their partnership has become a rare example of generational harmony in Spanish cinema.
Family disagreements
The path Manus Vega took to the cinema was not as straightforward as it might seem. His father, renowned director and screenwriter Felipe Vega, is the recipient of prestigious awards, but it was Manus’s mother who opposed her son’s decision to pursue acting. She worried about the instability of the profession and wanted a more predictable future for him. The family did not encourage interest in the arts, insisting on a career in engineering or law. However, Manus chose his own path despite the pressure, and his achievements now confirm the correctness of that decision.
Vega admits that for a long time he didn’t realize how unusual his upbringing was. He grew up among film people but took it for granted. Only with time did he come to understand how rare such an experience really is. Today, he not only acts in movies but also dreams of directing, following in his father’s footsteps. His idols are Woody Allen and Billy Wilder—masters of comedy—although Manus himself prefers drama, considering it the most rewarding genre for an actor.
New horizons
After finding success in television projects and securing notable film roles, Vega is expanding his creative ambitions. He is currently working on a documentary about the crypt of San Pedro, with Chris Pratt—the Hollywood blockbuster star—joining the project. For the young Spaniard, this kind of international experience is a rare opportunity to gain recognition beyond his home country and gain a new perspective on his craft. Vega admits that he devotes almost all his time to work, preferring solitude and deep immersion in screenwriting and directing.
The film “Islas,” where Manus Vega stars alongside Ana Belén, tells the story of two people meeting at a turning point in their lives. Their characters—an actress facing the twilight of her career and a young man experiencing a difficult period—find themselves drawn together. Filming took place in an atmosphere of complete trust, allowing the actors to reveal new facets of their talent. According to Divinity, this project became an opportunity for Vega to prove himself in drama, a genre he considers his true calling.
Industry impact
The story of Manus Vega demonstrates how personal connections and professional ambition can transform a career path. His friendship with Ana Belén has already sparked discussion among colleagues, while involvement in international projects is opening new horizons for Spanish cinema. Vega is unafraid to experiment, blending tradition and contemporary approaches, which makes him one of the most intriguing figures among the new generation of actors.
Ana Belén is one of Spain’s most recognizable and respected actresses and singers. Her career began in childhood, and over the years she has become a symbol of Spanish culture, working both in film and on stage. Her creative partnership with Víctor Manuel had a significant impact on the development of music and theater in the country. Belén’s return to cinema after a long break became a major event for both fans and industry professionals, while her collaboration with young actors such as Manus Vega highlights her openness to new ideas and her commitment to supporting the industry’s growth.
