The 23rd Spanish Film Festival

Pelikula Spanish Film Festival 2024: Fiesta de Cine Español y Latinoamericano

On October 5-13th, the cinema aficionado audience was yet again treated to an exciting show of Spanish and Latin American films at the PELíCULA Spanish Film Festival. Organized by Instituto Cervantes de Manila in coordination with the Spanish Embassy in the Philippines, the festival ran from October 5-13, 2024. The PELíCULA, on its 23rd edition, continues to be the most distinguished Spanish film festival in Southeast Asia because it features prize-winning films in various genres.

This was held at Shangri-La Plaza in Mandaluyong and gathered a dynamic lineup of films as it was an exemplification of the richness and diversity of Spanish-speaking cultures. The festival not only covered heartfelt dramas but also gave thrill to animations, which is all testimony to the evolving forms of storytelling by Spanish and Latin American filmmakers.

A Journey Through Spanish and Latin American Cinematic Excellence

Since it had been launched in 2002, PELíCULA became one of the most eagerly waited cultural events in the region. In addition to being one of the best Spanish and Latin American films in Filipino markets, many were also recognized at international film festivals. Any genre - drama, comedy, thriller, or documentary - PELíCULA entertains the taste of all audiences.

Different films were featured in this year's program, telling the multiple narratives, cultures, and history of Spain and its Latin American counterparts. The "Carmen", for example, can be watched. How about the exquisite "Loli Tormenta" or "Benito Pérez Buñuel"?

PELíCULA 2024 Featured Films

Here is a rundown take on the standout films and documentaries:

1. Carmen: A musical romanticism about the Spanish opera, where tradition and contemporary mix differently.
2. Loli Tormenta: A peaceful comedy reflecting on family through light-hearted display.
3. Benito Pérez Buñuel: A tribute to the legendary filmmaker, which recreates his life and works together.
4. El amor brujo: A powerful drama, full of passion and love, which betrays a couple in front of the audience.
5. El maestro que prometió, Robot Dreams, and Dispararon al pianista were also some of the films that, by virtue of their innovative storytelling, impressed audiences.

Other attractions were the well-informed documentary "Hispanoamérica, canto de vida y esperanza", the "Cerrar los ojos" feature; and the touching drama, "Las hijas". Also on the list are "Rioja, la tierra de los mil vinos", an invitation to witness Spain's culture for wine-making.

The Audience's Choice: Premio del Público

Probably, the most eagerly anticipated event for the festival was the Premio del Público or the Audience Choice Award. In this event, the audience votes for the film it will like best. This year definitely was no exception since the audience was spoilt for choice in viewing some excellent films cut from the same cloth of themes, including love, identity, family, and personal growth.

A Platform for Cultural Exchange

Not only films, but PELíCULA means much more as it sets up an understanding between the Filipino and the Spanish-speaking communities by deriving empathy for the cultures of Spain and Latin America. End.

The festival is also an excuse to watch some of the world's finest films and celebrate the vibrant cultural ties between the Philippines and Spain. With both Spanish and Latin American films on the roster, spectators will revel in the rich tapestry of cultures that unite the regions, reflecting shared history and growing contemporary narratives.

Mark your calendars for next year!

For those who could attend, PELíCULA 2024 was a cinematic journey that highlighted the best of Spanish filmmaking. If you couldn't make time for this year's screenings, worry not; PELíCULA will be back next year, 2025 with its next griping lineup of films promising yet again to get everyone on the edge of their seats.

Stay tuned for more Instituto Cervantes de Manila and Spanish Embassy including other Spanish-speaking countries, updates as they continue to bring the beauty of Spanish cinema to the Filipino audience. Until then, ¡disfruta del cine! (Enjoy the cinema!)