Seville hosts the second edition of the Akida Film Fest
The Akida International Film Festival returns to Seville from 16 to 21 September 2024, consolidating its position as one of the most eagerly awaited film events of the year. After the resounding success of its first edition in September 2023, where more than 40 short films were screened at the prestigious Avenida 5 Cines, the festival has experienced spectacular growth, with the participation of more than 3500 short films from 114 countries.
An exponential growth
The Akida Film Festival, founded in 2022 by two young entrepreneurs, Nick Kremm and Dimitris Pontikakis Batana, has captured the attention of the international film industry in record time. Since its first edition, the festival has gained the trust of audiences and film professionals, establishing itself as a reference platform for emerging and established talent.
One of the keys to the festival’s success has been its strategic collaboration with Unión Cine Ciudad. This alliance has ensured a safe and high quality event, with a long-term projection that promises to continue to raise the level of the film experience in Seville. In addition, the festival has the support of other media companies and organisations that have contributed to taking the event to a new level, guaranteeing a diverse and high-impact programme.
Screenings and unique guests
This year, the festival will feature 46 short films selected for official screening, a significant achievement that reflects Akida’s growing importance in the global film landscape. These short films will cover a wide range of genres, from drama and comedy to suspense, with a special focus on including work made by young people and students, as well as local productions from Seville.
Notable guests at this year’s edition include renowned figures from film and television such as Patricia Ortega, director of Mamacruz, and Susana Córdoba, an actress known for her participation in the series El Príncipe and El Ministerio del Tiempo. In addition, the awards gala, to be held on 20 September at the historic Cervantes Cinema, will be hosted by these renowned professionals, marking a highlight of the festival week.
The festival has also managed to attract the participation of prestigious actors and actresses, such as Omar Ayuso, Cristina Alcázar, Ingrid García-Jonsson, Ana Polvorosa and Ana Torrent, who will star in some of the short films in competition. Several of these works have been nominated for the Goya Awards, which adds an extra level of prestige to the event.
In response to the impressive reception of the first edition, which saw participation from 20 countries, the festival has expanded its horizons, receiving entries from 114 countries for the 2024 edition. This growth not only highlights the festival’s expansion, but also its ability to attract a global audience and creators from all over the world.
Seville and the cinema
The choice of the Cervantes Cinema, which has been recently renovated and will reopen in November 2023, as the venue for the awards gala, underlines the festival’s commitment to the city. This emblematic cinema will be the perfect setting to celebrate the achievements of the filmmakers and to reward the works that best represent the innovative and artistic spirit of the festival.
Seville’s relationship with film has a long history. It is worth highlighting the support of Sevilla Film and Events, a service designed to facilitate municipal administrative procedures and accompany companies at all stages of production. This service provides institutional support, legal security and tax incentives. In fact, Sevilla Film and Events offers advice on locations and settings, and facilitates the booking of venues, among other arrangements, ensuring a pleasant and hassle-free experience for those interested.
The Akida International Film Festival continues its rise as one of the most prominent events in the independent film scene, both locally and internationally. With a programme that includes high quality short films, the participation of renowned actors and directors, and a firm commitment to excellence, the festival promises to offer an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
Seville is preparing to host this great event, which will undoubtedly contribute to strengthening its position as a cultural and cinematographic reference in Spain and the world. With the backing of the industry and the participation of an increasingly enthusiastic audience, the Akida Film Festival is consolidating its position as a beacon of creativity and talent on the global film scene.
