San Sebastian Film Festival 2024: A star-studded celebration

A festival of memories and emotions

The 72nd edition of the San Sebastian Film Festival concluded with a grand awards ceremony, marking a significant milestone in its history. This year, the festival was graced by an unprecedented number of stars, making it a memorable event for both attendees and participants. Johnny Depp delighted children at a local hospital dressed as Jack Sparrow, while Javier Bardem shared an emotional tribute to his mother, Pilar Bardem. Pedro Almodóvar reminisced about his first visit to the festival 44 years ago, and Cate Blanchett accepted her Donostia Award with a heartfelt speech about the uncertainty that drives her.

The allure of San Sebastian

The festival’s director, José Luis Rebordinos, attributed the increased star presence to the festival’s growing importance and a bit of luck regarding the stars’ availability. With fewer movies and series being produced in Hollywood, especially in the indie scene, more talent was available to attend. This convergence of factors made this year’s festival a standout event.

Emerging talent and standout films

San Sebastian is not just about established stars; it also shines a spotlight on new talent and Spanish-speaking films. This year, Pedro Martín-Calero‘s “The Wailing” garnered significant attention for its feminist themes and polished execution, positioning Martín-Calero as a promising genre auteur with international potential. C. Tangana, known as Antón Álvarez, made a powerful debut with “La guitarra flamenca de Yerai Cortés.” Meanwhile, Alauda Ruiz de Azúa‘s four-part series “Querer,” a Movistar Plus+ original, was hailed as the Spanish series of the year.

The evolving landscape of film and TV

The 3rd Creative Investor’s Conference, organized by San Sebastian and CAA Media Finance, highlighted the shifting dynamics in the film and TV industry. Younger demographics are driving the post-COVID box office rebound, and this trend is evident worldwide. In the U.S., there is a surge in the specialty pic genre, while in France, there is a growing audience for first-time directors. In Italy, the focus has shifted from bourgeois dramas to stories about the lower classes, reflecting broader societal changes.

More buzzworthy titles

In the main competition, Albert Serra‘s “Afternoons of Solitude” is poised to confirm his status as a major filmmaker, despite its controversial bullfighting subject. Pilar Palomero‘s “The Glimmers” received the highest rating from Spanish critics, followed by Laura Carreira‘s “On Falling” and Mike Leigh‘s “Hard Truths.” Xin Huo‘s “Bound in Heaven” was a crowd favorite, and out of competition, “The Red Virgin” was praised for its overall quality. In the New Directors section, Swiss film “Bagger Drama” received positive feedback, and there was speculation about Pedro Almodóvar‘s “The Room Next Door” potentially earning a Best Picture nomination.

Argentina’s cinematic resilience

Despite cuts to Argentine subsidies by Javier Milei, the country’s film industry is fighting back. Pampa Films announced “Homo Argentum,” and producers from Europe and Latin America rallied to support Lisandro Alonso‘s next project. While the abandonment of an exhibition quota is affecting theatrical runs, Argentine cinema is far from dead.

Spain’s innovative promotion

Spain’s ICEX showcased its creativity with a seven-minute short film, “La causa del accidente que provocó el incendio,” unveiled at San Sebastian. The short, featuring cameos from notable figures like Karla Sofía Gascón and J.A Bayona, highlights Spain’s talent and is set to be showcased at Mipcom, AFM, and the Busan festival.

Spain’s growing recognition

A recent data release recognized Spain as a leader in non-English film and series viewing. The Investors Conference highlighted the contrast between the U.K. and Spain as filmmaking nations, with Spain’s robust tax incentives driving significant economic contributions. An Olsberg·SPI report revealed that productions spent a minimum of €1.32 billion in the Spanish audiovisual economy from 2019-2022, generating an estimated €1.8 billion in Gross Value Added contributions.

The enduring appeal of animation

2023 was a standout year for Goodfellas’ Maraval and the ex-Wild Bunch honcho, largely due to the success of Hayao Miyazaki‘s “The Boy and the Heron,” which grossed $47 million in the U.S. The film’s success raises questions about the profitability of animation versus the draw of Miyazaki’s name. Yohann Conte of Charades noted that animation consistently performs well, particularly in second and third windows, especially on streaming platforms. Some international family animation indie movies, like “Buffalo Kids,” also achieve breakout success.

The impact of AI

AI was a central topic at San Sebastian’s 5th high-tech Startup Challenge competition. Many pitches emphasized the ethical and legal frameworks of their AI software. The competition highlighted the growing importance of AI in media, with many pitches targeting both large media companies and solo digital-first content creators like YouTubers and influencers.

Deals and announcements

The festival saw over 30 deals reported, including several exclusives. Javier Bardem announced his role in “El Ser Querido,” among other notable projects.

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Rodrigo Sorogoyen’s “The Beasts” leads Movistar Plus+ event auteur slate

Rodrigo Sorogoyen, acclaimed for his work on “The Beasts,” is spearheading Movistar Plus+’s ambitious new slate of “event auteur” films. This initiative aims to bring high-caliber, director-driven projects to the forefront, promising a blend of artistic vision and mainstream appeal.

Netflix unveils genre projects at San Sebastián

Netflix has announced exciting new projects at the San Sebastián Film Festival. Among them are works from “Cable Girls” showrunner Ramón Campos and “Cross the Line” director David Victori. Both projects delve into genre storytelling, showcasing Netflix’s commitment to diverse and innovative content.

Max introduces its first Spanish original series

Max has given a sneak peek of its inaugural Spanish original series, “When No One Sees Us,” directed by Enrique Urbizu. This crime thriller has already garnered attention for its high-quality cinematography and gripping narrative, setting a high bar for future Spanish productions on the platform.

Pampa Films presents “Homo Argentum”

Pampa Films has unveiled “Homo Argentum,” starring Guillermo Francella of “The Clan” fame. Directed by Mariano Cohn and Gastón Duprat, known for “Official Competition,” this film promises a sharp and satirical look at contemporary Argentine life.

Lisandro Alonso to direct sequel to “La libertad”

Celebrated director Lisandro Alonso is set to helm a sequel to his critically acclaimed debut, “La libertad.” This project, backed by Fortuna Films, Planta, Deptford Film, The Match Factory, and Les Films Fauves, is eagerly anticipated by fans and critics alike.

Alice Braga and Bianca Comparato launch South production label

Brazilian actors Alice Braga (“Queen of the South”) and Bianca Comparato (“3%”) have teamed up to launch South, a new production label with bases in Los Angeles, New York, and São Paulo. Their first project, “She, Crocodile,” directed by Gabriela Amaral Almeida, is a body-horror story that promises to push boundaries.

Warner Bros. Discovery U.K. plans wide release for “Buffalo Kids”

Warner Bros. Discovery U.K. has confirmed a wide theatrical release for the Spanish animated feature “Buffalo Kids” in the U.K. and Ireland. Produced by 4 Cats Pictures, whose previous work “Mummies” grossed $54 million worldwide, this film is set to captivate audiences with its unique storytelling and animation.

Luxbox acquires “Narciso” with international cast

Luxbox has secured the latest acquisition, “Narciso,” directed by Marcelo Martinessi (“The Heiresses”). The film features an international cast led by Nahuel Pérez Biscayart and Spain’s Mona Martínez, promising a compelling narrative and strong performances.

Filmin expands its catalog with new acquisitions

Spanish streaming service Filmin has acquired the distribution rights to several notable films, including Akaki Popkhadze’s “In the Name of Blood,” Athina Rachel Tsangari’s “Harvest,” Giovanni Tortorici’s “Diciannove,” and Kirill Serebrennikov’s biopic “Limonov. La Ballade.” These additions reflect Filmin’s commitment to offering diverse and high-quality content.

Atresmedia Cine backs Trueba’s “Siempre es invierno”

Following the success of “Jokes and Cigarettes,” Atresmedia Cine is backing David Trueba’s adaptation of his novel “Blitz,” titled “Siempre es invierno.” This project promises to continue Trueba’s tradition of blending humor with poignant social commentary.

Arantxa Echevarría to direct “Dolores”

Beta Fiction Spain has tapped director Arantxa Echevarría for “Dolores,” a biographical film about Dolores Ibarruri, also known as La Pasionaria. This project aims to highlight the life of a global icon of the workers’ movement and the struggle against fascism.

Albert Serra’s “Afternoons of Solitude” gains international attention

Films Boutique has taken on the international distribution of Albert Serra’s “Afternoons of Solitude,” a standout in the main competition. Serra’s unique cinematic style continues to draw interest from global audiences.

Latido Films secures rights to “La guitarra flamenca de Yerai Cortés”

In the lead-up to San Sebastián, Latido Films has acquired the rights to Antón Álvarez’s directorial debut, “La guitarra flamenca de Yerai Cortés.” This film is one of Spain’s most anticipated releases for 2024.

Visit Films picks up “Surfacing”

Visit Films has acquired the international rights for “Surfacing,” directed by Cecilia Atán and Valeria Pivato. This film is a contender in San Sebastián’s New Directors section, showcasing emerging talent in the industry.

Film Constellation boards “Chaplin, Spirit of the Tramp”

Film Constellation has joined the production of “Chaplin, Spirit of the Tramp,” directed by Chaplin’s granddaughter. This project promises to offer a unique perspective on the legendary filmmaker’s legacy.

New production alliances and strategic partnerships

Isaki Lacuesta and Isa Campo’s La Termita have formed a production alliance with Sara Gonzalo’s Accidental, aiming to consolidate their efforts and expand their reach. Similarly, Amania Films and La Claqueta have launched a strategic partnership to enhance their presence in the Spanish and international markets.

Upcoming projects and acquisitions

Latido Films continues its momentum by acquiring “As Silence Passes By” and “Freedom to Dreams,” a tribute to sculptor Eduardo Chillida. FilmSharks has boarded Sandra Gugliotta’s “Irremediable,” while MPM Premium has picked up “A Yard of Jackals,” a Chilean thriller.

Animated climate change doc “Black Butterflies” gains distribution

Pink Parrot Media has taken on the distribution of “Black Butterflies,” an animated documentary addressing climate change. This project aims to raise awareness through its innovative storytelling approach.

Filmax secures international rights for “Time of Silence” and “Hotel Bitcoin”

Filmax has acquired the international rights for “Time of Silence,” a film about literary giant Luis Martin Santos, and the broad Spanish comedy “Hotel Bitcoin.” These acquisitions reflect Filmax’s diverse portfolio and commitment to quality cinema.

Alief boards supernatural drama “Horizonte”

U.K.-French film company Alief has joined the production of “Horizonte,” a supernatural drama by Colombian director César Augusto Acevedo, known for his Cannes Camera d’Or-winning film “Land and Shade.”

Feelsales acquires “Zafari”

Spain’s Feelsales has clinched international sales rights to “Zafari,” the latest film by “Bad Hair” director Mariana Rondón. This acquisition highlights Feelsales’ dedication to promoting innovative and impactful films.

Esther Acebo to star in “Everything Will Be Fine”

Esther Acebo, best known for her role in “Money Heist,” has signed on to star in Nestor Ruiz Medina’s upcoming feature “Everything Will Be Fine.” This project is highly anticipated by fans of the actress and the director.

Victoria Galardi returns with “The Hedgehogs”

Celebrated Argentine filmmaker Victoria Galardi is back with her latest film in development, “The Hedgehogs” (“Los Erizos”), which explores the complexities of a couple’s separation. This project is expected to resonate with audiences for its emotional depth and nuanced storytelling.

Martin Boulocq’s “The Strange Woman” taps Cimarrón Cine

Bolivian filmmaker Martin Boulocq has partnered with Uruguay’s Cimarrón Cine for “The Strange Woman,” a drama set against the backdrop of a politically turbulent Bolivia. This collaboration promises to bring a powerful and timely story to the screen.

International co-productions and collaborations

France’s Caractères and Chile’s Planta have teamed up for “Hard Boiled School,” directed by Hernán Rosselli. Similarly, France’s Still Moving has joined forces with Uruguay’s Monarca for Pablo Lamar’s “Remanso,” and Dublin Films is backing “A Different Garden,” a childhood drama by Colombian writer-director Mariana Gil Ríos.