The Spanish Film Academy announced the three pre-selected films that aspire to represent Spain in the Best International Feature Film category at the 2025 Oscars. The chosen productions are “La estrella azul,” “Marco,” and “Segundo premio,” with the announcement made by actresses Malena Alterio, Victoria Luengo, and Belén Cuesta from the Academy’s headquarters in Madrid. These three films will now compete in a final selection process that will conclude on September 18, when it will be announced which film will represent Spain in Hollywood.
“Segundo premio”: Cinema and Granada, Hand in Hand Towards the Oscars
“Segundo premio,” directed by Isaki Lacuesta and Pol Rodríguez, is a film that explores the origins of the influential Spanish indie band Los Planetas, set in the vibrant city of Granada during the 1990s. Rather than simply recounting historical facts, the film delves into the fantasies and myths surrounding the band, capturing the musical and cultural spirit of the era. This work has been acclaimed at the Málaga Film Festival, where it won the Biznaga de Oro, and has sparked renewed interest in the city of Granada as a significant cinematic setting.
The Granada City Council celebrates the selection of “Segundo premio,” noting that it coincides with a key moment as the city will host the Goya Awards ceremony in February 2025. According to the Council, this is a “unique opportunity” for Granada to position itself on the global cinema map. They highlight that the media attention generated by an Oscar nomination benefits not only the film and its creators but also the city that served as its setting. Such recognition can attract more producers and filmmakers looking for authentic and culturally rich locations for their projects.
“Marco” and “La estrella azul”: Unique Stories Representing the Diversity of Spanish Cinema
“Marco,” directed by the trio Aitor Arregi, Jon Garaño, and Jose María Goenaga, is another of the films selected to compete for the Oscar. Recently presented at the Venice Film Festival, the movie tells the incredible true story of Enric Marco, a man who, for three decades, falsified his past as a prisoner in a Nazi concentration camp. Eduard Fernández’s performance has been particularly praised, with numerous accolades for his transformation for the role and his ability to capture the complexity of such a controversial character.
Meanwhile, “La estrella azul,” the feature debut of Javier Macipe, has surprised audiences with its innovative approach to the musical biopic genre. The film follows the life of Mauricio Aznar, a rock musician from Zaragoza who embarks on a personal and musical odyssey in rural Argentina. Currently promoting his film in Uruguay, Argentina, and Mexico, Macipe has shared in interviews his deep personal connection to the protagonist’s story and the impact that the music of Más Birras had on his life.
Granada, a Center of Attention in Spanish and International Cinema
The connection between “Segundo premio” and Granada has strengthened the city’s international profile, which is already gearing up to host the Goya Awards in 2025. According to the City Council, having a film with deep roots in Granada could increase media coverage and public interest, establishing the city as an important meeting point for Spanish cinema. Furthermore, this connection reinforces local pride by positioning Granada not only as a tourist attraction but also as a reference in the film industry.
The filming of “Segundo premio” in Granada marked a significant milestone for the city, thanks to the collaboration between the production team and the Granada Film Office, a department of the City Council. This support was crucial in ensuring the production’s success by facilitating permits, coordinating with local authorities, and providing access to iconic locations that helped capture the essence of Granada on screen.
A Memorable Premiere in Granada
On May 16, Granada hosted the premiere of “Segundo premio,” an event that celebrated the close bond between the city and the film. The screening was attended by the film’s team and was met with great enthusiasm from the local community, including media, authorities, and citizens. This event not only underscored Granada’s importance as an emerging destination for high-caliber productions but also reaffirmed its capacity to attract significant film projects.
The selection of “Segundo premio” as Spain’s candidate for the Oscars and the upcoming Goya Awards in the city strengthen Granada’s role in the cinematic landscape, both nationally and internationally. This momentum is expected to help establish Granada as a key location for cinema, attracting more productions and creative talent in the coming years.