The Spanish cinema scene is gearing up for a major night of celebration, as anticipation builds for a high-profile premiere. This year’s Goya Awards saw Valladolid emerge as a favorite in the electoral spotlight, with a strong sentiment surrounding the ceremony and its contenders.
Estibaliz Urresola’s film has reached the 38th edition of the awards, facing a slate of 15 candidates, including a notable showing by Juan Antonio Bayona’s Snow Community, and David Trueba’s They Know It. Isabel Coixet’s A Love also appears in the mix, with seven nominations that place it among the frontrunners, though some observers see it a touch farther back in the race.
Valladolid stepped into the spotlight, moving the gala from the capital after a six-year run. The ceremony previously shifted among major cities, with Seville hosting in 2019 and 2023, Malaga in 2020 and 2021, and Valencia in 2022. The tradition of taking the show outside Madrid has roots dating back to the 2000 edition in Barcelona, when the event first ventured beyond the capital’s confines.
Valladolid’s city leadership marked the moment with pride, and the local press captured the mood as the festivities prepared to unfold. A representative still photograph captures the mayor and tourism council member posing with one of the iconic large sculptures associated with the Goyas, a reminder of the city’s festive ambience. (EFE)
The ceremony is scheduled to take place at the Valladolid Fair ground on a Saturday afternoon, with doors opening at 10:00. The event will be steered by a creative duo famous for their work behind the scenes in Spanish television and film, and will include the participation of a celebrated actress and singer who has long been associated with the gala. There is a sense of continuity in the production team, with familiar names bringing their signature flair to the staging and presentation. (EFE)
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The premiere segment will again be guided by seasoned showrunners from the music and tv world, who have become synonymous with large-scale live events in Spain. They bring a blend of theatricality and warmth to the screen, aiming to honor the country’s cinematic achievements while keeping the audience engaged from start to finish. (EFE)
Where Can You Watch the Goya Awards?
Fans can follow the live narrative of the event via traditional broadcast and streaming platforms. The evening promises a comprehensive coverage of arrivals and the red carpet moments, with continuous commentary and behind-the-scenes glimpses. The broadcast will be available on national television as well as digital channels, ensuring viewers across the country can join in the celebration. (EFE)
Nominations at a Glance
Urresola’s feature debut, 20,000 Species of Bees, which explores themes of identity and belonging through a trans childhood lens, stands as the leading contender for best film. Snow Community, a film from Bayona, has also earned strong recognition and is in the running for international prestige. Other prominent titles include They Know It by Trueba, Un Amor by Coixet, and Close Your Eyes by Erice, each contributing to a competitive field that underscores Spain’s vibrant cinematic landscape. (EFE)