The actors are currently starring together in Florian Zeller's Bunker, which had its North American premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on Sept. 14. The film follows a married couple whose relationship is tested as they clash over a major moral decision. Zeller wrote the project specifically with Cruz and Bardem in mind, working with the couple during its development.
During a Q&A after the screening, Cruz, 52, admitted that collaborating with her husband remains an intimidating experience.
"It's scary to work with somebody that is your partner because you feel like you want to protect them," she said, while acknowledging the trust they share with Zeller. Cruz also joked that after working together, she usually feels they should wait at least five years before doing another project together.
Cruz and Bardem, 57, first met while working on the 1992 film Jamón, Jamón. They later reunited for 2008's Vicky Cristina Barcelona, eventually marrying in 2010. The couple now have two children.
In Bunker, Bardem plays Miguel, a successful architect who is faced with the decision of whether to design a bunker for a billionaire. Cruz portrays Sofia, an editor who becomes increasingly concerned about her husband's changing ambitions and questions the moral choices behind his work.
The characters were written with similarities to Cruz and Bardem, including their long marriage and having two children. However, the actors were careful to keep their real relationship separate from the fictional one, particularly when filming emotionally charged arguments.
Cruz said their long history and deep trust helped them take on challenging scenes together. She recalled knowing Bardem since they were both young and said she has watched his career develop while admiring his work.
That history, she explained, allows them to take risks during filming while knowing they can rely on each other.
Bardem also praised his wife during the festival, saying he has watched her grow as an actress and continues to be impressed by her talent and dedication.
He described working with Cruz as a joy and joked that because they already know how to portray a married couple, they come to set with plenty of practice.
The actor also told PEOPLE that sharing the experience of making and promoting Bunker with his wife is something he does not take for granted. From traveling together for the film's international premieres to attending red-carpet events, Bardem said being able to share their passion for filmmaking makes the experience particularly meaningful.
