The twenty-eighth edition of the Málaga Film Festival was officially inaugurated on Friday night, with a gala at the Cervantes Theatre in which the importance of culture and art was defended as a "path to follow." The event was hosted by actress Patricia Montero, who highlighted that this year the festival has "more content than ever."
A total of 260 works, including feature films, documentaries, and short films from more than fifty participating countries, are part of this edition. The gala began with a performance by gaditana artist Judeline, accompanied only by a piano. Patricia Montero emphasized the festival's relevance in uniting the film industries of both sides of the Atlantic and being a pioneer in supporting films made by women.
During the ceremony, the importance of culture as a "path to follow" was emphasized, with words from Patricia Montero herself: "Culture elevates us." The actress recalled her first opportunity on television during a filming in Málaga. In this edition, up to 60% of the official competing feature films are directed by women.
The jury of the edition, composed of prominent figures from Hispanic-American cinema, also participated in the inaugural gala. During the event, milestones of the festival were recalled, and honorary awards were presented to prominent personalities from the Spanish and Latin American film world.
Singer La Tania, recently awarded at the Goya Awards, paid tribute to Juanito Valderrama with an emotional performance. The jury president, Mercedes Morán, expressed her support for Argentine cinema and her gratitude for the opportunity to preside over the jury.
The gala also served to present the honorary recognitions that will be awarded in the coming days to prominent figures in the film industry. Musicians like Antonio Orozco entertained the event with their performances.
To close the gala, host Patricia Montero expressed her wish for the audience to enjoy "many moments of joy" during the Málaga Festival, which will extend over the next ten days.
