IP Regulation in Spain and AI as a Job-Creating Force: 5 Takeaways From San Sebastián’s European Conference

Madrid has solidified its position as a global leader in the audiovisual sector during the 73rd San Sebastián Film Festival. Key figures, including Inmaculada Sánchez Cervera and Carlo d’Ursi, shared insights on strategic initiatives and future plans aimed at fostering industry growth. This is significant as it highlights Madrid's commitment to supporting the creative economy, attracting talent, and enhancing its cultural influence on a global scale.

Eduard Fernández, a talented actor from Barcelona, was honored with the prestigious National Cinematography Award at the San Sebastián Film Festival on September 20, 2025. This recognition, presented by Culture Minister Ernest Urtasun, comes with a cash prize of €30,000. Fernández's acceptance speech highlighted the importance of Gaza as a reflection of our shared humanity, making this award not just a personal achievement but a call for awareness and empathy in challenging times.

Adrià García, the acclaimed director who won a Goya Award for his animated film 'Nocturna' nearly 18 years ago, is making a triumphant return to animation with his new feature 'The Treasure of Barracuda.' This film, which is based on a book by Llanos Campos, is set to premiere at the prestigious San Sebastián Film Festival. García's return is significant not only for fans of animation but also for the industry, as it showcases the enduring creativity and talent of filmmakers who continue to push the boundaries of animated storytelling.

Daniel Domenjó, the newly appointed CEO of Movistar Plus+, is making waves in Spain's payTV and streaming landscape. In his first interview with Variety, he emphasizes the importance of human connection in the workplace, reflecting a fresh approach to leadership. This matters because Movistar Plus+ is the largest service of its kind in Spain, and Domenjó's vision could reshape how audiences engage with content, potentially enhancing viewer experience and company culture.

The documentary 'No Other Land' has made waves by securing two nominations at the Grierson British Documentary Awards, highlighting the impactful stories of activists in the West Bank. This recognition is significant not only for the film but also for raising awareness about the issues faced in the region. Despite its Oscar win and critical acclaim, the film has faced challenges in U.S. distribution, making these nominations a crucial step in reaching a wider audience and sparking important conversations.

Beta Film has secured the rights to 'A Lovely Mess – Rob the Rich,' an engaging social dramedy that cleverly mixes adventure, romance, and class satire. This six-part series follows a middle-aged couple, Justine and Rémi, as they navigate the pressures of keeping up with societal expectations, even if it means resorting to crime. This acquisition is significant as it highlights the growing trend of blending genres in storytelling, appealing to diverse audiences and showcasing innovative narratives in the film industry.

Night Train Digital has appointed Neil Francis, a former executive from YouTube and Sky, as its new Managing Director, succeeding Caitlin Meek-O'Connor. This change is significant as it marks a new chapter for the one-year-old company based in London, which is part of Herbert L. Kloiber's Night Train Media. With Francis's extensive experience in the digital media landscape, the company is poised for growth and innovation, especially following Meek-O'Connor's departure to start her own consultancy in Scotland.

Dani de la Orden, known for his work on the upcoming film 'A House on Fire,' is set to direct the adaptation of 'El Director,' a compelling non-fiction book by David Jiménez. This book chronicles Jiménez's experiences as the editor-in-chief of a prominent Spanish newspaper, offering insights into the challenges of journalism. This adaptation is significant as it highlights the importance of media integrity and the personal stories behind the headlines, making it a timely project in today's media landscape.

The anticipation is building for 'Mint', the debut crime drama series from filmmaker Charlotte Regan, known for her work on 'Scrapper'. The first images featuring Emma Laird and hip-hop star Ben Coyle-Larner, also known as Loyle Carner, have been released, giving fans a glimpse into this intriguing new show. Produced by House Productions, which is behind the acclaimed series 'Sherwood', 'Mint' promises to deliver a gripping narrative that explores the complexities of crime families. This series is significant not only for its talented cast but also for its fresh perspective in the crime drama genre.

Kieran Holmes-Darby and Megan Jupp, the standout couple from 'Love Is Blind: UK', have signed with MVE for representation in TV, partnerships, and intellectual property. Their marriage marks a rare success story from the reality show, and this new deal could open exciting opportunities for them in the entertainment industry, showcasing their journey beyond the series.