The festival celebrates its 31st edition
From November 19 to 28, the Zaragoza Film Festival enters a new phase marked by a change in leadership, with Idoya Barrabés at the helm, Mexico as guest country, and a commitment to strengthening its role in the development of Aragón’s audiovisual sector. After three decades of history, the festival is evolving with ambitions to grow, in line with Zaragoza City Council’s strategy to position the city as a hub for the audiovisual industry.
New leadership and challenges
One of the most significant changes this year is the appointment of Idoya Barrabés as festival director, while its founder, José Luis Anchelergues, assumes the presidency. Barrabés takes on the role at a time of renewal, with the aim of strengthening the festival’s professional dimension, building closer ties with the sector, and creating opportunities for Aragón talent.
A historic legacy
The festival was founded in 1995 as a modest yet ambitious initiative. Since its first edition in 1996, it has established itself as a key cultural institution in Zaragoza. It remains committed to the belief that festivals are essential spaces for sharing, discussing, and collectively enjoying cinema, particularly in an era of individual content consumption.
Audiovisual development in Zaragoza
Zaragoza is advancing its audiovisual development strategy, a City Council-backed initiative aimed at attracting domestic and international productions. Distrito 7 is a key project, transforming the former Giesa factory into a hub for audiovisual creation and production, thereby supporting the consolidation of a local business ecosystem.
The festival’s role
The Zaragoza Film Festival can play a crucial role in this strategy, serving as a meeting point for creators, production companies, institutions, and distributors. The new leadership has an opportunity to strengthen these relationships and foster a more robust and connected audiovisual ecosystem.
Program for the 31st edition
The program reflects its dual cultural and industry focus, with 1,137 entries received from 36 countries and 105 finalists selected. Mexico, the guest country, further strengthens longstanding cultural ties. The festival will open on November 19 with the documentary El patio de la Infanta, while the Zaragoza Film Archive will host competitive screenings.
Industry forum and closing ceremony
On November 27, Etopia will host a day dedicated to the audiovisual industry, addressing topics such as Aragón’s potential as a filming location and the challenges posed by artificial intelligence. The closing gala will honor award-winning works and distinguished careers with the Augusto Awards.
The festival is entering a phase in which tradition and renewal will coexist. With Barrabés’ new leadership and institutional support for the audiovisual sector, an opportunity has emerged to redefine the festival’s role in Zaragoza.
