The seventy-third San Sebastian Film Festival drew to a close, bringing an end to a multi-day marathon of premieres, filmmaker meetings, and lively discussions. The final note sounded on Saturday evening with the official closing ceremony. Traditionally, this event was preceded by a red carpet walk, but in 2025, the event took on a uniquely dual character, blending the aesthetics of high fashion with the sharpness of the political moment.
The highlight of the film community’s attention was undoubtedly the presentation of the main award. The prestigious Golden Shell found its winner as the jury unanimously awarded it to ‘Vidas de domingo’ by director Alauda Ruiz de Azúa. This decision reaffirmed the festival’s reputation as a platform for discovering new talents and supporting bold auteur cinema. The film, which delves into the subtleties of family relationships, was warmly received by both critics and audiences throughout the festival.
But even before the winners were announced, the lenses of hundreds of photographers were aimed at guests arriving at the Kursaal Congress Centre. The red carpet transformed into a true runway, where stars of Spanish and international cinema showcased the latest creations from top designers. Each appearance sparked conversation, and some looks will undoubtedly go down in festival history and inspire evening fashion for the coming season.
In this stream of elegance and glamour, two stars shone especially brightly—Laura Escanes and Hiba Abouk. Their style choices were recognized as among the evening’s most successful. While the former opted for refined classics, the latter chose a bolder, more dramatic look. Both actresses demonstrated impeccable taste, once again confirming their status as style icons and prompting fashion commentators to discuss their outfits almost as much as the films themselves.
Still, the festive atmosphere was tinged with seriousness. This year, the shine of spotlights and the rustle of designer dresses could not drown out a powerful public statement. Nearly the entire red carpet was marked by gestures and symbols in support of Palestine. Many actors, directors, and other cultural figures used this opportunity to draw attention to the humanitarian crisis. Thus, the traditional parade turned into a silent yet no less powerful demonstration, where art asserted its inextricable connection to reality.
The final event in San Sebastián in 2025 was more than just a celebration of cinema. It became a complex, multifaceted occasion reflecting all aspects of contemporary life. There was room for honoring talent, admiring beauty, and expressing strong civic convictions. The festival once again proved itself to be not just a film competition but a living entity, attuned to the pulse of the times.
