Bernardo Arsuaga Cárdenas did not follow a straight career line. He created one chapter at a time. Advocate. Film producer. Producer. partner. athlete. His career shows how skill in one area can shape success in another, even years later.
Based in Monterrey, Mexico, Bernardo is now known for his work as an award-winning documentary filmmaker and partner in post-production studios. But his professional story began away from the film sets.
Growing up in Monterrey: discipline and pace
Bernardo grew up in Monterrey, Mexico. Movement was a part of his life from a young age. He used to ride BMX and mountain bike daily. That routine shaped his mentality.
“Being on a bike teaches you focus,” he says. “You fall, you get up, and you keep going.”
That early discipline stayed with him. This showed up later in his professional life, even when the work looked very different.
Studying Law and Building a Firm
Bernardo studied law at the Universidad Regiomontana. He became a lawyer and later a partner in a law firm, a role he served from 2008 to 2022.
Law taught him structure. Contract. Plan. risk.
“An idea only makes sense when you turn it into a plan,” he says. “Step by step.”
He worked in the legal world for more than a decade. But another interest continued to grow in the background.
Entry into filmmaking through curiosity
In 2013, Bernardo began directing and producing documentaries. First of all, it wasn't about the awards or the scale. It was about telling a story well.
“My goal in filmmaking is simple,” he says. “I want people to sit back, forget about themselves, and enjoy the story.”
His legal background helped more than expected. Conversation. Organization. Long time frame.
“People think filmmaking is just creativity,” he says. “It's also contracts, schedules and persistence.”
Breakthrough with award-winning documentaries
Bernardo Arsuaga Cardenas
’s first major documentary, The Weekend Sailor, brought international recognition. The film featured world-class sailors and reached audiences far beyond Mexico.
He collaborated with Duran Duran lead singer Simon Le Bon on this project. The film was screened globally and received significant awards, including recognition at high-profile film festivals and events in Europe and the United States.
“Working with people at the top of their field changes your standards,” says Bernardo. “You learn how much preparation matters.”
His second major documentary, The Michoacán File, further expanded his reach. The film featured well-known chef and actor Danny Trejo. It also earned major awards, including a James Beard Award as well as honors at the Newport Beach Film Festival.
Awards followed, but Bernardo remained focused on the process.
“I've made a lot of mistakes,” he says. “Each one was a lesson.”
Building a film business, not just films
Today, Bernardo is a partner in a post-production studio. He balances creative direction with operational decisions.
“Creativity requires structure,” he says. “Without it, projects would not have been completed.”
He sees filmmaking as a long game. Funding. Distribution. Access to the platform.
“My goal is to be available on multiple platforms,” he says. “Stories must travel.”
That business mentality separates hobby projects from sustainable production.
Facing Doubt and Persisting
Bernardo talks openly about the obstacles he faced. Fear. Self doubt. Financial pressure. Competition.
“These things are natural,” he says. “Working hard and believing in your thoughts helps you overcome them.”
Consistency matters more than bursts of inspiration.
“Determination, dedication and persistence,” he says. “That's how you move forward.”
Life beyond the film set
Outside of work, Bernardo leads an active life. He is married and has three children. Family plays a central role.
“My father, my mother, my wife and my children,” he says, “they keep me grounded.”
He continues to ride enduro mountain bikes, sail, ski, cook, and act. These activities promote creativity and balance.
“There is time for everything,” he says. “Day by day.”
Career built on belief in ideas
Bernardo Arsuaga Cárdenas shows that careers do not need to be stable. Skills transfer. Lessons piled up.
“Never lose faith in your plans,” he says, “and don’t let anyone change your mind.”
From law to film, contracts to cameras, his work reflects patience, structure and creative risk. Not overnight success. Just move at a steady pace.