Lorraine Williamson
On Saturday, February 8, Granada hosted the Goya Awards, the most prestigious event in Spanish cinema. Directors, actors, and other industry professionals gathered to celebrate an unforgettable night.
Since its inception in 1986, the Goya Awards have been considered Spain’s equivalent of the Oscars. Named after the famous Spanish painter Francisco Goya, the awards were established by the Academy of Cinematographic Arts and Sciences of Spain to recognise excellence in the Spanish film industry. Over the years, they have grown in prominence, showcasing the best in Spanish cinema and often reflecting the social and political climate of the country.
This year’s ceremony was historic, as for the first time, two films shared the Best Film award: La Infiltrada and El 47. The event was also noted for its powerful speeches addressing social and political issues.
Opening tribute to DANA victims
The night began with an emotional tribute to the victims of the DANA storm in the Valencian Community, delivered by presenters Maribel Verdú and Leonor Watling. Their heartfelt words received a standing ovation. Later, Miguel Ríos performed Bienvenidos alongside actors and singers, ending with the message: “Free Palestine.”
Overview of the main winners
- El 47 – Five awards, including Best Picture, Best Actor (Eduard Fernández), Best Supporting Actor (Salva Reina and Clara Segura), Production Direction, and Special Effects.
- La Infiltrada – Best Film and Best Actress (Carolina Yuste).
- La Habitación de al Lado and Segunda Oportunidad – Three awards each.
- Best Director – Shared between Isaki Lacuesta and Pol Rodríguez.
- Best Adapted Screenplay – Pedro Almodóvar (La Habitación de al Lado).
- Best New Actress – Laura Weissmahr (Salve María).
- Best New Actor – Pepe Lorente (La Estrella Azul).
A full list of winners is available on the official Goya Awards website.
Highlights from the speeches
- Eduard Fernández warned about the dangers of fascism.
- Carolina Yuste urged politicians not to exploit people’s pain for political gain.
- Salva Reina emphasised the struggles of Andalusian migrants to Catalonia, stating, “No person is illegal.”
- Miguel Ángel Silvestre paid tribute to the victims of last October’s DANA disaster, which caused over 200 deaths and significant damage.
- Pedro Almodóvar (speech read by his brother) cautioned against the rise of the ultra-right and unchecked liberalism.
- Salva Reina and Clara Segura stressed the importance of migrant stories and universal education.
Goya de Honour and international recognition
Aitana Sánchez Gijón became the youngest recipient of the Goya de Honour. She highlighted cinema as a force for tolerance and spoke about the increasing influence of female filmmakers in the industry.
The International Goya was awarded to Richard Gere by Antonio Banderas. Gere warned about the dangers of Trumpism and encouraged vigilance against intolerance.
Notable Absences
Five key figures were unable to attend were director Pedro Almodóvar and actresses Penélope Cruz, Tilda Swinton, Julianne Moore, and Karla Sofía Gascón.
This year’s Goya Awards in Granada will be remembered not just for its historic dual winners but for its bold speeches that resonated beyond the world of cinema.