Recently released in theatres by Bosco Films, Solo Javier tells the surprising life of Javier Sartorius, a young man whose journey seemed straight out of a Hollywood movie: aristocrat, paddle tennis champion, surfer, and coach. But beyond his worldly achievements, his story becomes a testament to spiritual transformation and total commitment to his faith.

In this interview, Rosa Muguiro, Javier’s cousin, and Josep María Anglès, the film’s director, tell us how the idea of ​​bringing his life to the screen came about, the challenges of a shoot that spanned Peru, the United States, and Lérida, and how the crowdfunded project became a true bridge of human and spiritual connection.

The story behind Javier

His career seems like something out of a movie: aristocrat, padel champion, surfer, Hollywood coach… At what point did you feel Javier Sartorius’s story deserved to be told on film?
Rosa Muguiro:

“I knew Javier was a very special person because of the lasting impression he left on those who knew him. I was struck by the fact that his encounter with Jesus Christ resulted in such a brilliant and radical conversion. When the rector of his seminary encouraged us to share his life, I felt his story would be an example for others.”

The challenge of filming a spiritual and geographical journey

The shoot included fictional scenes, interviews, and locations in Peru, the United States, and Lérida. What was it like to visually approach this inner journey, and which sequence was the most challenging?
Josep María Anglès:

Javier’s inner journey was accompanied by a highly diverse ‘external journey’ that reflected his spiritual journey. His carefree youth led us to film on tennis courts, in nightclubs, and in discos, with music and lights that conveyed his life of excess. Later, his approach to Eastern religion led us to a Hare Krishna meditation centre, a setting that reflected his first shift toward a reality far removed from everything his life had been like.

Filming in Peru was undoubtedly the most challenging. His exposure to poverty, which had already begun in California, reached its peak here. The most moving sequence was Javier running down a hill with several children, after his return to the Church through a three-day confession. It took many hours of effort, but the narrative significance of the moment justified any sacrifice.

Crowdfunding and the power of the community

The film was funded through crowdfunding. How did this format influence the development of the project, both creatively and logistically?
Rosa Muguiro:

“We had to stick to a budget and there were difficult moments, but the beautiful thing is that almost all the donors were involved in the project with great enthusiasm. Through the filming and the fundraising events, very strong human and spiritual bonds were created. Javier is already performing small miracles of conversion and kindness for many people.”

Show the transformation without idealizing

Javier went from a life of worldly success to total devotion to silence, prayer, and poverty. How can we portray this transformation without falling into the idealized hero?
Josep María Anglès:

«We were clear from the beginning that we didn’t want to show Javier as a ‘perfect’ man. He was relatable, and his life has elements that anyone can identify with. In ‘Solo Javier,’ we show a restless and wounded man searching for his place and meaning in life. The true protagonist is God’s action in his life, awakening concerns and guiding him along unexpected paths, to which Javier decided to say yes. We also show moments of weakness and doubt, because they are part of every human life.»

A universal and youthful message

This is a spiritual story with a universal human impact. What audience would you like to reach, and what impact do you hope the film will have?
Rosa Muguiro:

“I would love for it to reach all audiences. The documentary’s message is that anyone who draws closer to Jesus Christ and embarks on a spiritual path and search for truth will transform their lives, moving from emptiness to happiness. I especially hope it reaches young people, helping them find meaning in life, give themselves to others, and live authentically happy lives. The encounter with Jesus Christ is a turning point; Javier found happiness with a capital H.”