Catalonia's Cinematic Renaissance at Berlinale 2026

The 2026 Berlinale marks a significant moment for Catalan cinema, showcasing a diverse array of films that reflect a new generation of filmmakers. Ian de la Rosa’s “Iván & Hadoum,” premiering in the Panorama section, exemplifies this shift. This Spain-Germany-Belgium co-production explores themes of love, identity, and labor in southern Spain, highlighting the evolution of Catalan cinema from intimate arthouse films to broader, genre-blending narratives. De la Rosa, who previously won the Gaudí Award for his short “Farrucas,” represents a cohort of filmmakers who are increasingly engaging with international co-productions and diverse storytelling formats.

Variety Magazine

Catalonia's current cinematic landscape is characterized by a departure from the traditional arthouse style that defined the late 2010s. Initiatives like RECLab, part of Tarragona’s REC Festival, have fostered this evolution by supporting innovative projects. Filmmakers such as Estibaliz Urresola and Mikel Gurrea have gained recognition for their works, which reflect a broader thematic diversity. The current generation is not only exploring personal narratives but also integrating genre elements, as seen in Gemma Blasco’s “Fury,” which channels personal trauma into a theatrical narrative.

Variety Magazine

The Catalan government's cultural agency, ICEC, has played a pivotal role in nurturing this cinematic growth. By treating audiovisual production as both a creative and strategic industry, ICEC has facilitated a robust alliance with private stakeholders, enhancing the region's international visibility. The Shortcat program, which supports short films for international distribution, has been instrumental in this process, with alumni like Lucía Romero achieving notable success.

Variety Magazine

This year’s Berlinale features a broad selection of Catalan projects, including the series “Ravalear: Not For Sale,” which addresses gentrification in Barcelona. Directed by Pol Rodríguez, the series reflects the ongoing identity crisis within the city. Other noteworthy films include “Porto Alegre” by Álvaro Gago and “Robbery, Beating and Death” by Marcel Borras and Nao Albet, both of which showcase the region's expanding narrative scope.

Variety Magazine

Despite the successes, challenges remain. The Catalan film industry still grapples with budget constraints that limit its ability to produce larger-scale projects capable of competing with major international studios. While recent successes at the Spanish box office, such as “El 47,” demonstrate growing audience engagement, the industry must continue to evolve to sustain its momentum.

Variety Magazine

• “It felt right to hear my own language in my first feature,” — Ian de la Rosa, Director

Variety Magazine

• “What happens when the identity of a neighborhood is erased for profit?” — Pol Rodríguez, Creator of “Ravalear: Not For Sale.”

Variety Magazine

• “As a result of this approach, the audiovisual sector has built a strong alliance with the private stakeholders operating in it, becoming a true game-changer for the industry.” — Edgar Garcia, ICEC Director

Variety Magazine

Catalonia's presence at Berlinale 2026 illustrates a dynamic shift in its cinematic landscape, driven by a new generation of filmmakers and robust institutional support, setting the stage for a promising future in international cinema.

Variety Magazine