Top Filmmakers Compete in San Sebastián Film Festival 2024

The San Sebastián Film Festival’s 72nd edition, running from September 20-28, promises a compelling lineup featuring esteemed directors and promising newcomers. Renowned filmmakers Maite Alberdi, Edward Berger, Gia Coppola, Costa-Gavras, Kiyoshi Kurosawa, Mike Leigh, Diego Lerman, Joshua Oppenheimer, and François Ozon will compete for the coveted Golden Shell. Joining them are debut directors Laura Carreira and Xin Huo. The competition also includes films by acclaimed Spanish directors Iciar Bollain, Pedro Martín-Calero, Pilar Palomero, and Albert Serra.

Maite Alberdi’s Debut Feature Film

Maite Alberdi, known for her award-winning documentaries, presents her first feature-length film, “El lugar de la otra.” This true crime story is based on the life of writer María Carolina Geel, who shot her lover dead in 1955. Alberdi’s previous works include “The Mole Agent” and “The Eternal Memory,” both of which received critical acclaim and award nominations.

New Talent Laura Carreira with “On Falling”

Laura Carreira’s “On Falling” portrays the precarious life of a Portuguese warehouse worker in Scotland. Carreira, who has received recognition for her short films “Red Hill” and “The Shift,” makes her feature directorial debut with this intimate exploration of loneliness and connection in the gig economy.

Gia Coppola’s Star-Studded “The Last Showgirl”

Gia Coppola’s “The Last Showgirl” features a stellar cast, including Pamela Anderson, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Dave Bautista. The film follows a seasoned showgirl who must plan for her future after her show abruptly closes. Coppola, known for “Palo Alto” and “Mainstream,” continues to showcase her unique storytelling style.

Costa-Gavras Returns with “Le dernier souffle”

Legendary director Costa-Gavras returns to the San Sebastián Film Festival with “Le dernier souffle.” This philosophical film explores the reflections of a palliative care doctor and a renowned writer, featuring an ensemble cast including Denis Podalydès and Charlotte Rampling. Costa-Gavras’s storied career includes classics like “Z” and “Missing.”

Edward Berger’s Intriguing “Conclave”

Edward Berger’s “Conclave” delves into the secretive process of selecting a new Pope, starring Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci. Following his Academy Award-winning “All Quiet on the Western Front,” Berger brings his deft touch to this tense and captivating narrative.

Kiyoshi Kurosawa Reimagines “Serpent’s Path”

Kiyoshi Kurosawa reimagines his 1998 film “Serpent’s Path” with an international cast, including Ko Shibasaki and Mathieu Amalric. This new version, set in the suburbs of Paris, follows a man’s quest for revenge with the help of a Japanese doctor.

Mike Leigh’s “Hard Truths” Explores Family Dynamics

Mike Leigh’s “Hard Truths” addresses family dynamics and mental health, starring Marianne Jean-Baptiste and Michele Austin. Leigh, known for his keen observations of everyday life, brings his characteristic depth to this British-Spanish production.

Diego Lerman’s UFO Investigation in “El hombre que amaba los platos voladores”

Diego Lerman’s “El hombre que amaba los platos voladores” investigates Argentina’s most famous UFO sighting. Featuring Leonardo Sbaraglia and Renata Lerman, the film delves into the country’s fascination with extraterrestrial encounters.

Joshua Oppenheimer’s Dystopian Musical “The End”

Joshua Oppenheimer’s “The End” is a dystopian musical starring Tilda Swinton and George MacKay. Known for his powerful documentaries “The Act of Killing” and “The Look of Silence,” Oppenheimer now explores a wealthy family’s survival in a post-apocalyptic world.

François Ozon’s “Quand vient l’automne”

François Ozon’s “Quand vient l’automne” tells the story of a retired woman whose life changes after meeting a former prisoner. Ozon, a frequent participant in the festival, continues to captivate with his nuanced and emotive storytelling.

Opening Film and Spanish Productions

Opening the San Sebastián Film Festival is Audrey Diwan’s “Emmanuelle.” Competing for the Golden Shell are Spanish productions “Soy Nevenka” by Iciar Bollain, “El llanto” by Pedro Martín-Calero, “Los destellos” by Pilar Palomero, and “Tardes de soledad” by Albert Serra. These films showcase the diversity and richness of Spanish cinema.

This year’s San Sebastián Film Festival showcases a diverse array of films that promise to captivate audiences and highlight the extraordinary talent of both seasoned filmmakers and emerging directors.