Competition
In Alicante, a collaborative effort by the AEPA Association of Businesswomen, Professionals and Executives, along with the Women’s Association for Equality, launched a short film competition that shines a spotlight on female talent in cinema. The initiative is supported by Diputación de Alicante and Impulsalicante and is scheduled to unfold in the city from September 22 to 24. The event pays tribute to Helena Cortesina, a trailblazing figure in Spanish cinema whose work helped pave the way for women behind and in front of the camera. This tribute is presented as part of a broader mission to elevate women’s voices in film and to acknowledge the contributions of those who helped shape the industry through the decades.
Fernández, a leading voice within the Women’s Association for Equality, underscored that the festival is more than a screening. It is a statement that the role of women in cinema deserves ongoing visibility and respect for the creative work that reflects how women perceive the world. The organizers emphasize that opportunities on sets and in front of the camera should be described through feminine perspectives, and that scripts ought to integrate women’s viewpoints. This event aims to catalyze change by highlighting women’s profiles on screen and behind the scenes.
The initiative centers on Helena Cortesina, an influential but largely underrecognized figure who stands as Spain’s first female director with her own production company, Cortesina Films. This homage is designed to honor her legacy and to remind audiences of the important path she carved in the early days of Spanish cinema. Cortesina, born in Valencia on July 17, 1903, rose to prominence during the early to mid-20th century. Her career began in performance arts, with a debut as a dancer in 1916 that earned her note in the press, and she became widely known by the nickname Venus of Valencia. The festival intends to bring renewed attention to her pioneering achievements and to celebrate the enduring spirit of women filmmakers.
Calendar
The three-day event will feature short film screenings, competition entries, discussions, and master classes that connect seasoned professionals with new voices. Notable participants include Leticia Dolera, an acclaimed actor, director, and screenwriter recognized for her work on perfect life, which earned Cannes Series Festival accolades in 2019, among other national and international recognitions. Dolera’s presence adds a layer of prestige and practical insight into the program, reinforcing the festival’s mission to foster dialogue and growth within the audiovisual sector.
Schedule
Thursday, September 22: 18:30 – 20:30. The first round of short film screenings and a roundtable with directors will take place at the Impulsa Alicante offices.
Friday, September 23: 18:30 – 20:30. The second set of short film screenings and a roundtable with directors will be hosted at the Impulsa Alicante facilities.
Saturday, September 24: The Arniches Theater will serve as the event venue for the final activities.
Jury Meeting
18:30 – A masterclass led by Leticia Dolera will offer insights into craft and storytelling.
19:30 – The Competition Award Ceremony will recognize outstanding work across the entries.
20:30 – Closing remarks to conclude the festival.
Official Section Jury
The official jury consists of five seasoned professionals from the industry who will evaluate the entries competing for the top prize. Their task is to assess the creative and technical merits of the works and to determine the awards that best reflect inventive storytelling and cinematic craft.
Adela Iriarte, audiovisual director at the Cervantes Institute, brings a wealth of experience in promoting thoughtful media production and cultural exchange. sEA Churches, a leader in Valencian media, serves as president of a network that oversees the À Punt television channel, contributing editorial and production expertise. The Mayor of Rosalia, a prominent journalism advocate, supports the festival’s commitment to media ethics and regional storytelling. Nerea Marcen, founder of the Alicante production company Wayaba, adds practical insight into production pipelines and industry trends. Ivan Carbonell, a renowned photographer, contributes a sensitivity to visual composition and narrative framing that enriches the jury’s deliberations.