José Luis Cienfuegos, director of the Valladolid International Film Festival (Seminci), has passed away in Madrid at the age of 60. The unexpected news has sent a shockwave through the world of cinema and the city of Valladolid. For the last three editions, Cienfuegos has left his 'unmistakable mark' on the festival's direction. He was 'faithful to the history and spirit that have characterized Seminci' while also leading it through 'a necessary renewal', making it a 'polyhedral space for dialogue and knowledge'. In 2012, he became the director of the Seville Film Festival, turning it into a launchpad for authors shaping contemporary cinema. His arrival in Valladolid in 2023 marked the biggest challenge of his career, bringing 'new, entrepreneurial, and enthusiastic ideas' to grow the main film and audiovisual event in Castilla y León. He was known for his 'polyhedral gaze' and for transforming festivals into 'livable spaces' where cinema became the cornerstone of culture and life. Condolences have been expressed by the city council, the regional government of Castilla y León, the Ministry of Culture, and many others. Cienfuegos began his career in the press department of the Gijón Film Festival and became its director in 1995, transforming it into an 'entry point' for the most daring and stimulating filmmakers in the country.
Seminci director José Luis Cienfuegos passes away
Renowned Spanish film festival director José Luis Cienfuegos has died in Madrid at 60. He left a significant mark on the film world by leading major festivals in Spain.
