Basque Cinema Roars With Language, History and Pop as San Sebastián Premieres 38 Local Projects

Filmax has secured international sales for the Basque drama 'Karmele,' directed by Asier Altuna. This film, inspired by Kirmen Uribe's novel, tells the poignant story of Karmele Urresti, a nurse who faced exile. The project highlights the power of art as a form of resistance, making it not just a film but a significant cultural statement. This matters because it sheds light on historical struggles and the resilience of individuals, resonating with audiences who value stories of perseverance.

San Sebastián's Ikusmira Berriak residency program is celebrating a remarkable 34% increase in applications this year, marking its 11th anniversary. This initiative, launched in 2015, aims to nurture emerging talent in filmmaking and is a collaboration with the Tabakalera-International Centre for Contemporary Culture and the Elías Querejeta Zine Eskola. The growth in applications highlights the program's success and its importance in supporting new voices in the film industry, making it a significant platform for creativity and innovation.

Spain's television landscape is thriving, especially with Movistar Plus+ leading the charge. At the San Sebastián Film Festival, the premieres of their original series 'Querer' and 'Celeste' not only captivated audiences but also clinched top honors at the prestigious Series Mania in 2025. This highlights the growing importance of local content in the global entertainment scene and showcases Spain's ability to produce compelling narratives that resonate with viewers.

Director Jose Alayón's film 'Dance of the Living' is making waves at the San Sebastián New Directors competition. The film features a poignant moment where a wrestler, after winning a match, shows respect by raising his opponent's arm in a gesture of sportsmanship. This scene not only highlights the spirit of competition but also the importance of camaraderie and respect in sports. Alayón's work is significant as it brings attention to the cultural narratives of the Canary Islands, showcasing local talent and stories on an international stage.

The San Sebastián Film Festival is set to showcase eight exciting works-in-progress, highlighting the creativity of filmmakers like Fernando Eimbcke and Jonas Bak. This event, running from September 22-24 in the Basque city, is significant as it represents the most important festival in the Spanish-speaking world, providing a platform for emerging talent and innovative projects that could shape the future of cinema.

Daft Punk has announced a new collaboration with the popular game Fortnite, allowing players to experience the group's music in a unique in-game setting. While fans might hope for a reunion, the iconic duo has clarified that they have no plans to come back together. This collaboration is significant as it showcases how music and gaming continue to intersect, providing fans with a fresh way to engage with Daft Punk's legendary catalog.

The official trailer for 'Harlan Coben's Lazarus' has just been released by Prime Video, building excitement for its premiere on October 22. This thriller series, featuring Sam Claflin and Bill Nighy, dives into the mysterious death of Claflin's character's father, Dr. Jonathan Lazarus. With a gripping storyline crafted by bestselling author Harlan Coben and BAFTA-winner Danny Brocklehurst, this series promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, making it a must-watch for thriller enthusiasts.

Travis Kelce, the tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, faced a hefty fine of $14,491 from the NFL for unsportsmanlike conduct during a game on September 14. The fine was imposed due to Kelce's 'obscene gestures' on the field, which not only drew attention but also raised questions about player conduct in professional sports. This incident highlights the league's ongoing efforts to maintain sportsmanship and decorum among its players, reminding fans and athletes alike of the standards expected in the game.

Canal+ Group has successfully completed its $2 billion acquisition of MultiChoice, a major player in South Africa's pay TV market. This move not only strengthens Canal+'s position in Africa, where MultiChoice operates in 50 countries, but also highlights the growing importance of the continent's media landscape. With this acquisition, Canal+ is set to enhance its offerings and expand its influence in a rapidly evolving market, making it a significant development for both companies and the industry as a whole.

My Chemical Romance is back in the spotlight with the announcement of their 'Black Parade 2026' tour, celebrating the 20th anniversary of their iconic album. This exciting news comes after their successful 'Long Live: The Black Parade' tour, and fans can look forward to 17 new live dates across North America, the UK, and Europe. Tickets go on sale on September 26, making it a perfect time for fans to secure their spots for what promises to be an unforgettable experience.

George Takei, the renowned actor and activist, has been appointed as the honorary chair of Banned Books Week, a significant initiative aimed at raising awareness about censorship in literature. This role is crucial as it highlights the ongoing battle against the suppression of diverse voices and ideas in our society. Takei's involvement brings a spotlight to the importance of protecting the freedom to read and the value of diverse narratives, making this year's event particularly impactful.