Festival director José Luis Rebordinos steps down after 17 years, transitioning leadership to Maialen Beloki in January 2027.
As the San Sebastián International Film Festival begins its 74th edition, director José Luis Rebordinos will conclude his 17-year tenure. Rebordinos, who has led the festival since 2010, announced he will step down this year, with deputy director Maialen Beloki set to take over the role in January 2027. This transition marks a significant moment in the festival's history, recognizing Rebordinos' contributions while ushering in a new leadership era.
Beloki, who has served as Rebordinos’ deputy for the past eleven years, has been praised for her qualifications and deep understanding of the festival. Rebordinos expressed confidence in her abilities, stating she is “a highly qualified professional” integral to the festival’s success. Expectations suggest that under her leadership, the San Sebastián International Film Festival will continue to flourish, particularly in its focus on industry collaboration and innovation.
In an interview with Deadline, Rebordinos highlighted three key achievements during his time as festival director: the expansion of industry activities, the establishment of year-round educational programs, and the development of a rich archival collection. His vision helped shift the festival's identity, making it a pivotal hub for interactions between European and Latin American cinema, thus increasing its global significance.
Under Rebordinos’ stewardship, the festival saw the implementation of initiatives like the Europe-Latin America Co-Production Forum, launched in 2012, and Works in Progress LatAm, which started in 2020. These initiatives have fostered collaboration and support for filmmakers from across these regions, reinforcing the festival's role in the international film landscape. He also emphasized the importance of creating a more human-centric festival atmosphere, differentiating it from larger events.
The San Sebastián International Film Festival has become increasingly influential, particularly in connecting filmmakers from Latin America with European markets. The festival has supported emerging filmmakers, initiating projects that bridge cultural and financial gaps, such as the Ikusmira Berriak residency program. This program, in cooperation with local cultural institutions, has developed talent like Chilean filmmaker Diego Céspedes, whose recent work gained acclaim at the Cannes Film Festival.
Rebordinos’ legacy includes the introduction of the Creative Investors’ Conference in collaboration with CAA Media Finance, attracting significant international industry players each year. The festival’s ability to facilitate meaningful business relationships while maintaining an intimate atmosphere stands as a testament to Rebordinos' vision.
The San Sebastián International Film Festival will take place from September 18 to 26, 2026. As it transitions to new leadership, the festival is poised to build on the foundational work laid by Rebordinos. Although his direct role will conclude, he plans to continue supporting the film industry, particularly focusing on Spanish and Latin American cinema. His work in nurturing talent and fostering international ties will likely continue to influence the festival’s direction and partnerships.
In summary, while the festival embarks on a new chapter with Maialen Beloki, Rebordinos leaves behind a thriving, internationally recognized event that has significantly impacted the film industry.
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