Maialen Beloki Appointed Director of San Sebastián Film Festival
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Maialen Beloki, a deputy director since 2016, will lead the San Sebastián Film Festival starting in January 2027. She will succeed José Luis Rebordinos, who is stepping down after a 16-year tenure as the festival's longest-serving director. The festival's executive board unanimously selected Beloki following an open call for candidates.
Facts First
- Maialen Beloki will become director of the San Sebastián Film Festival in January 2027.
- She succeeds José Luis Rebordinos, who is stepping down after 16 years as the festival's longest-serving director.
- The executive board unanimously selected Beloki following an open call for candidates launched in March.
- Beloki has served as a deputy director since 2016 and holds a PhD in film theory from the University of the Basque Country.
- The festival is implementing its Z365 initiative to transform from a September event into a year-round ecosystem for talent and education.
What Happened
The San Sebastián Film Festival's executive board unanimously selected Maialen Beloki as its next director following an open call for candidates launched on March 4. Beloki, who has served as one of the festival's deputy directors since 2016, will take over from José Luis Rebordinos in January 2027. Rebordinos is stepping down after 16 years in the role, making him the festival's longest-serving director.
Why this Matters to You
If you follow international cinema, this leadership transition may signal a continuation of the festival's recent focus on developing new talent and creating a year-round cultural program. The festival's Z365 initiative... could mean more opportunities for emerging filmmakers to gain exposure. For attendees, the festival's established partnerships, like the Proyecta showcase with Cannes, are likely to continue, maintaining its status as a key industry event.
What's Next
Beloki will formally assume the director role in January 2027. The festival's Z365 initiative... appears set to continue under her leadership. This initiative includes programs like the Ikusmira Berriak residency and the Nest shorts showcase, which may expand the festival's impact beyond its traditional September dates.