Film Festivals in Spain

San Sebastián Festival

Famous actors, glamour and, above all, good film. Every year there are a range of international film festivals held in Spain where you can enjoy the best new films before they go on general release. Some, like the San Sebastián Festival, are amongst Europe's most prestigious. You can really get involved in these events, which feature active audience participation. Do you like film? Then make a note of Spain in your diary.

The plan we suggest here includes discovering some of Spain's most beautiful towns and cities, coming across international stars in the street and enjoying some quality films. We are talking about Spain's film festivals, whose success and reputation are growing year by year. Some of them have become vital dates for film professionals and enthusiasts alike. Many of these events are also specialised, concentrating on a specific genre. For any film buff, they are a unique opportunity to spend several days immersed in your favourite passion.

Whether in the official selection our on the margin of the competition, these events usually present a selection of the best films from the world panorama. Spain's international film festivals give you the chance to see brand new films, to attend major screenings and to discover the works that have received awards at other festivals. Frequently, there are also seasons of classic films, themed programmes or retrospectives looking at renowned film makers; for the young ones, meanwhile, there are matinée and children's sessions. For fans and mythomaniacs, the best is to opt for presentation passes - these generally feature the attendance of stars and film teams.

Live the Seventh Art

The opening and closing galas are held at the main festival venue, while films are projected at different cinemas and locations around the host town. Ticket prices are quite affordable (3-6 Euro depending on the film). There are also passes available for the different programmed sections. These sometimes include the galas. Participation by the public is very important. This is why nearly all the festivals have a section where prizes are decided by votes from spectators.

The atmosphere of each of these events is another highly attractive aspect. The host towns and cities get fully involved and organise parallel activities such as exhibitions, workshops, seminars, concerts... Furthermore, you will find that they are very interesting tourist destinations, with everything from beaches and monuments to delicious gastronomy.

There are many international events that take place in Spain; nevertheless, there is one that stands out above all: the San Sebastián Film Festival. Legendary stars like Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, Orson Welles, Alfred Hitchcock, Woody Allen and Robert de Niro have walked its red carpet. It is one of Europe's most important film festivals, and the charming nature of its host city, San Sebastián, means that many actors and film makers stay on to enjoy it.

Other outstanding events are the Seminci Festival in Valladolid and the Sitges International Film Festival, which has been visited by directors such as John Woo and Quentin Tarantino, and boasts being the world's top fantasy film festival. Other events worthy of mention include the Huelva Latin American Film Festival, the Cinema Jove Young Film Makers' Festival in Valencia, the Peñíscola Comedy Film Festival, the Gijón Film Festival… These are just some of the many events you will find. There are specialised festivals focusing on shorts, documentaries, experimental film, cartoons… If you like film, then come to Spain and you are sure to have a great time!