By Catherine McGeer •
Published: 27 Nov 2024 • 14:15
• 1 minute read
ALMERIA wrapped up its 23rd International Film Festival (FICAL 2024) with a star-studded closing gala, celebrating the best of Spain’s thriving film and TV industry.
Celebrating Spain’s film and TV excellence
The event brought together over 600 professionals, including big names like Carmen Machi, Karra Elejalde, and Najwa Nimri, who praised the region’s stunning landscapes and the warm welcome from locals.
Held at the Maestro Padilla Auditorium, the gala showcased the province s natural beauty as a filming destination. Highlights included awards for emerging filmmakers and series that captivated audiences. The feature film La Estrella Azul (The Blue Star) received top honours, including Best Film and Best Director, while popular TV shows were also recognised for their cultural impact.
Almería a rising star in global cinema
The festival’s highlight was the ‘Almería, Land of Cinema’ award, given to Karra Elejalde for his outstanding career. Earlier, he unveiled his star on the Walk of Fame, a nod to Almería’s growing appeal as a film hub. FICAL 2024 ended on a high note, shining a spotlight on Almería’s role in global cinema.
Plan your visit to Almería’s cinematic locations
Almería’s rich film history extends beyond the festival. Visitors can explore iconic filming locations like the Tabernas Desert, often dubbed Europe s Hollywood, where classics like Lawrence of Arabia and The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly were filmed. The Almería Walk of Fame is another must-see, featuring stars dedicated to legends of cinema.
For those inspired by FICAL, the city offers guided tours that dive into its cinematic heritage, making it a year-round destination for film fans.
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Written by
Catherine McGeer
I am an Irish writer who has been living in Spain for the past twenty years. My writing centers around the Costa Cálida. As a mother I also write about family life on the coast of Spain and every now and then I try to break down the world of Spanish politics!
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