Julio Fernández, founder of Filmax and key figure in Spanish cinema, dies

Producer Julio Fernández Rodríguez, founder of the film group Filmax and one of the most influential figures in the Spanish audiovisual industry, died on Monday, November 17, 2025 in Miami at the age of 78.

Born in A Fonsagrada (Lugo), Fernández began his career in 1983 traveling to Hollywood with the aim of bringing large international productions to Spain that would soon achieve commercial success. Shortly after, he acquired the Filmax brand, which under his leadership was consolidated as one of the main independent studios in the country, with an impact both on the development of the local industry and on the international dissemination of Spanish cinema.

Described by the company as a “passionate visionary and dreamer,” Fernández promoted innovative projects that marked the identity of the studio from its beginnings. Their commitment to new formats and genres was key in the creation of reference labels, such as Fantastic Factory, specializing in horror and fantasy films, as well as in the production of award-winning animated films at a global level.

During his career he produced dozens of feature films and held relevant positions in the sector, including member of the Spanish Academy of Cinematographic Arts and Sciences, advisor to EGEDA, and president of AEGACAT. His career was recognized with distinctions such as Medalla Castelao of the Government of Galicia and the keys to the cities of Barcelona and Miami.

Fernández served as president of Filmax until 2010, but his legacy continues to be the identity axis of the company, whose current motto, Dreaming is for brave people, pays tribute to his entrepreneurial philosophy.

In a statement, Carlos Fernández, brother of the producer, and his daughters Laura and Sandra Fernández, along with the rest of the Filmax team, have expressed their gratitude for his leadership and contribution to the sector: “His legacy will continue to guide the new generations of cinema.”