After the Spanish Civil War he began to study law but interrupted his studies to work in theater. In 1942 he began to act in movies but also continued working on plays. He formed his own theater company and received awards for directing and writing. In the 1950s he began to direct movies, including the film of his novel, "El viaje a ninguna parte". He received praise for his 1958 comedy "La vida por delante", which led to a sequel, "La vida alrededor". In 1977, he won the Silver Bear for Best Actor at the 27th Berlin International Film Festival for his role in "The Anchorite". He won the award again at the 35th Berlin International Film Festival in 1985 for his role in "Stico" and finally the Honorary Golden Bear at the 55th Berlin International Film Festival in 2005.