## Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival Returns for Its 15th Year
The curtain is rising on the 15th Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival (EMIFF) and founder Sandra Lipski says she’s “bursting at the seams” with excitement. This year’s edition promises a mix of fresh talent, big‑name stars, and a strong focus on the local Balearic film scene.
### A Star‑Studded Lineup
#### Diane Kruger Gets the Evolution ICON Award
Hollywood legend Diane Kruger, known for *Troy*, *The Da Vinci Code* and *Inglourious Basterds*, will receive the Evolution ICON Award. She also won Best Actress at Cannes for *In the Fade*. Lipski has been trying to bring Kruger to Palma for years and calls it a great honour to have her on the island.
#### Other Special Awards
– **Evolution Vision Award** – Director/Producer Edward Berger
– **Cinematography Icon Award** – Matthew Libatique, ASC (famed for work with Darren Aronofsky, Joel Schumacher, Spike Lee and Bradley Cooper)
– **Evolution Icon Award** – Actress Iris Berben
### What to Expect: Films and Events
#### Opening and Closing Films
The festival opens with *Club Kid*, a 2026 American comedy‑drama written, directed by and starring Jordan Firstman in his feature debut. The film premiered at Cannes and now arrives in Palma.
It closes with *The End of It*, a dystopian feature debut by London‑based Catalan director Maria Martinez Bayona.
#### Surprise Big‑Name Directors
Expect to see projects from Oscar‑winning Danny Boyle (*Ink*), Renée Zellweger’s animated short debut *THEY*, and Michael Keaton’s *Sweetwater*. Lipski says seeing these established names step behind the camera shows how far EMIFF has come in 15 years.
### Spotlight on Balearic Talent
#### Made in Baleares Section
More than 44 selected projects from the Balearic Islands will be showcased, continuing a tradition that started with the festival’s first edition in 2012. This program brings local productions to an international audience and connects Balearic creators with the world.
#### Local Award for Pau Aulí
Costume designer, production designer and visual artist Pau Aulí will receive the Evolution New Talent Award at the closing ceremony. Aulí has worked with Agustí Villaronga and Albert Serra, earned three Gaudí Award nominations, and created the costumes for the closing film *The End of It*.
### Working with Calvia Council
#### Location Tour and Industry Opportunities
This year’s location tour will highlight Calvia, welcoming professionals from Los Angeles, New York, London and beyond to experience the municipality’s film‑friendly infrastructure. The collaboration with Calvia Council—home to the only Balearic film office that is a member of the Spanish Film Commission—supports the area’s strategy to become a hub for film production and creative talent.
Palma Pictures will again offer a 25,000‑euro production grant to winning new filmmakers and host a studio tour, giving emerging creators a concrete step forward.
## Conclusion
The 15th Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival blends glamour, discovery, and community support. With Diane Kruger headlining the ICON Award, a diverse slate of over 140 films from 50 countries, special recognitions for visionary cinematographers and directors, and a strong emphasis on nurturing Balearic talent, EMIFF continues to live up to its motto of “bridging cultures – bridging people.” Film fans and industry professionals alike have plenty to look forward to from 28 October to 4 November in Palma.
For more details, tickets and the full programme, visit the festival’s website.
[Source](https://www.majorcadailybulletin.com/holiday/life-style/2026/10/17/146645/15th-mallorca-international-film-festival-shines-the-light-the-evolution-the-balearic-spanish-and-international-industries.html)
Images Credit: www.majorcadailybulletin.com