The official presentation of the event took place at the Islote de Fermina, in Arrecife, with the presence of various authorities and representatives from the cultural and tourism sectors. Among them were the Culture Councilor of the Cabildo de Lanzarote, the CEO of the Art, Culture and Tourism Centers, and the Director of Institutional Relations for Canary Islands Tourism, all of whom highlighted the festival's importance.
“"The Lanzarote International Film Festival represents one of the island's most solid and consolidated cultural commitments, as twenty-six editions speak of constancy and dedication to culture."
For two weeks, the FICL will transform Lanzarote into a meeting point for filmmakers, industry professionals, students, and the general public. The program includes screenings, meetings, competitions, training activities, and inclusive proposals that will take place in various venues across the island.
The cinematic offering features over 63 works, including nominated short films, special sessions, and competition entries. These will be showcased in emblematic locations such as the CIC El Almacén, the Víctor Fernández Gopar El Salinero theater, and the Atlántida multi-cinemas, all in Arrecife.
The official competition sections are the core of the festival, with categories such as National Fiction, International Fiction, Animation, Documentary, and Canary Shorts. Competitive screenings will be held at the CIC El Almacén on May 18, 19, 20, 21, and 22, with public access tickets priced at 2 euros. As in previous editions, the audience will be able to participate by awarding the Audience Award through voting.
Additionally, the festival will feature special screenings of feature films. These include De todos lados un poco (2025) by Álex O'Dogherty on May 14, La deuda (2025) by Daniel Guzmán on May 15, and Yo no moriré de amor (2026) by Marta Matute on May 16. All these sessions will take place in the Buñuel room of the CIC El Almacén and will be attended by their respective directors.
The FICL also reaffirms its commitment to emerging talent through initiatives such as the Roberto Pérez Toledo express short film competition, which challenges participants to create a short film between May 11 and 17, culminating in an awards gala at the Atlántida multi-cinemas. Furthermore, the School Short Film Competition returns, aimed at students from various educational centers on the island.
