The Saraqusta Film Festival 2025 Kicks Off in Zaragoza with History

The Saraqusta Film Festival, in its sixth edition, has kicked off strongly in Zaragoza, standing out for its focus on historical cinema. The event, which will run until May 1, 2026, began with the screening of the documentary «La Bolsa de Bielsa.» This work, directed by Arturo Méndiz, revives a crucial episode of Republican resistance during the Spanish Civil War, capturing the audience’s interest from the very first day.

Opening Documentary: «La Bolsa de Bielsa»

«La Bolsa de Bielsa» is a work that not only narrates a historical episode but also resonates deeply with the director Arturo Méndiz, whose mother experienced the exodus to France firsthand. The film, produced by Bastian Films, focuses on the resistance of the 43rd Republican Division in the Aragonese Pyrenees, an event that remained forgotten for decades. Motivated by the silence surrounding this story, Méndiz has included testimonies from descendants of those involved, providing an intimate and personal perspective to the narrative.

Official Competition: Notable Works

In the official section of the festival, two notable works are competing. «Primavera,» an Italian feature film directed by Damiano Michieletto, transports viewers to 18th century Venice. The story follows Cecilia, a young violin prodigy, whose life changes with the arrival of Antonio Vivaldi. The cast includes Tecla Insolia and Michele Riondino, bringing this adaptation of Tiziano Scarpa’s novel «Stabat mater» to life.

On the other hand, the documentary «Fiume o morte!» by Igor Bezinovic explores the 1919 invasion of Rijeka by Gabriele D’Annunzio, an extravagant historical event that has captured attention for its uniqueness. Both works reflect the diversity and depth of the festival’s programming.

Complementary Activities and Access

The festival not only offers screenings but also complementary activities such as round tables. One example is the session on «20th Century Wars and their Representation in Cinema,» featuring experts like Óscar Cervera, Andrea Pérez, and Diego Benedí. Tickets for the competing screenings cost 4.5 euros, while a 15-euro pass allows access to multiple events, including the closing gala. Additionally, several activities are free of charge, with prior online reservation.

The Saraqusta Film Festival takes place in iconic locations in Zaragoza, such as the Museum of the Theater of Caesaraugusta and the Cine Cervantes, offering a rich and varied cultural experience. The programming continues with a series of screenings and activities that promise to keep the audience’s interest until the festival concludes.