2025 Berlinale’s European Film Market to Spotlight Spain as “Country in Focus”
Spain has been announced as the “Country in Focus” at the 2025 European Film Market (EFM), taking place during the 75th edition of the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) from February 13 to 19, 2025. This initiative, launched by the EFM in 2017, spotlights a major film-producing nation each year to foster dialogue and international collaboration in the film industry. Spain’s selection acknowledges its dynamic and influential role in European and global cinema.
Over the years, Spanish filmmaking has had a significant presence at the Berlinale. Many Spanish films have captivated audiences and earned accolades, with nine productions winning the Golden Bear, the festival's top prize. Notable among these was Carla Simón’s “Alcarràs,” which took home the award in 2022. Another memorable moment was Pedro Almodóvar’s La ley del deseo ("Law of Desire"), which won the first TEDDY Award in 1987. Spain's involvement in the festival has extended beyond films, with distinguished Spanish directors and filmmakers frequently serving on the Berlinale juries and emerging talent programs.
The “Spain in Focus” initiative at EFM 2025 will offer a comprehensive look at Spain's film industry. From animated films to drama and series, the program will engage producers, distributors, investors, and industry experts across various genres. The goal is to showcase the country's creative talents, encourage international co-productions, and further solidify Spain’s reputation as a leading force in global cinema.
Tricia Tuttle, the Berlinale's Festival Director, expressed her excitement about Spain's participation, stating, “Spanish filmmaking has enriched the Berlinale programme for decades. We are so looking forward to celebrating the Spanish film industry at the upcoming European Film Market.”
One of the key aspects of Spain’s cinematic appeal is its commitment to sustainable film production and its drive toward digital innovation. The country’s film sector benefits from attractive tax incentives and strong infrastructure, making it a highly desirable location for international co-productions. While Madrid and Barcelona are known as prime film hubs, other regions such as Catalonia, the Basque Country, Galicia, the Canary Islands, and Andalusia also boast vibrant film industries with unique regional identities.
Tanja Meissner, Berlinale Pro* Director, highlighted the importance of Spain’s contribution to the European and global film landscape: “The Spanish film and media industry has solidified its reputation and global acclaim to become a European powerhouse thanks to creative excellence, targeted investments, and technological innovations.”
Spain’s Ministry of Culture is also keen to support and promote the country's film industry on a global stage. Ernest Urtasun, Spain's Minister of Culture, emphasized the significance of this recognition, stating, “Spain being a ‘Country in Focus’ will allow us to make visible the enormous talent of the Spanish industry in all its areas: creation, production, distribution, and the global positioning of our cinema."
The 2025 European Film Market, as part of the Berlinale, will undoubtedly present Spain’s film industry as a growing and influential player, further enhancing its global visibility and fostering international collaborations.