José Luis Cuerda's academic journey underwent a significant shift when he initially opted to pursue a career in law, only to later decide to redirect his path and cultivate his skills as a radio and television technician. This unexpected turn of events led him to join Televisión Española in the year 1969, where he made valuable contributions to the organization's news services by meticulously crafting reports and documentaries.
As the late 1980s unfolded, Cuerda embarked on a new and exciting chapter in his career, taking on the esteemed role of professor within the Faculty of Fine Arts at the University of Salamanca, a position he would hold from 1985 to 1987.
Prior to embarking on a journey to feature films, the renowned director Cuerda delved into the realm of short films, meticulously honing his skills and progressively bolstering his confidence as a visionary filmmaker. It was in the year 1982 that he finally took the bold step, directing his inaugural feature film, thereby inaugurating a illustrious and storied career in the world of cinema.