BAFTA shorts make splash in Spain

Nominees head to Aguilar Film Festival

by Amber Wilkinson

Wild Summon
Wild Summon Photo: Festival de Cannes

Short British films stepped into the spotlight at the 36th Aguilar Film Festival, which began on November 29 in northern Spain.

It marks the fifth year that the British Council has brought BAFTA-nominated shorts to the event - this year spotlighting eight entries from the roster.

Three films emerged as audience favorites from the British selection - for their poignant exploration of human connection with nature: Jellyfish And Lobster by Yasmin Afifi, Crab Day by Ross Stringer and Wild Summon by Karni Arieli and Saul Freed.

Arieli said: “We envisioned a salmon’s journey as a reflection of human struggles. By framing it as the story of a woman, we hoped to evoke universal emotions. Festivals like Aguilar are vital for stories like ours - they amplify voices that dare to experiment.”

Other notable works included animated documentary Visible Mending by Samantha Moore, Such A Lovely Day by Simon Woods, Gorka by Joe Weiland , Festival Of Slaps by Abdou Cissé and Yellow by Elham Ehsas.

AFF's artistic director Jorge Rivero said: “These films don’t just entertain - they challenge and inspire. The BAFTA selection has once again elevated the festival’s global appeal.”

The opening ceremony also saw actor Pepe Viyuela receive an award for his prolific career spanning theatre, film, and television.

The festival features 230 short films from 21 countries and runs until December 8.

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