La II edition Benissa en Corto has transformed the Benissa Cultural Center into the epicenter of the seventh art This week, attracting about 1.300 people to the screenings of short films and is establishing itself as a cultural landmark in the Marina Alta region. The event has been supported by prominent actors such as Carlos Santos, Octavi Pujades, and the guest of honor, Unax Ugalde, and will culminate this Saturday, 5 of September, with a closing gala in the new Town Hall square.
Great reception and support from film figures
The festival has sold out every day, demonstrating the public's fascination with the stories being screened and its consolidation as an essential event. The event's creators, Pedro Font (director), Raúl Martínez (announcer and screenwriter), and Maria Mas (actress), expressed their "satisfaction with the great reception this second edition of the festival has received."
The jury for this edition was chaired by the Catalan actor Octavi Pujades, accompanied by the actors Carolina Bona, Vanessa Cano and Ferran Gadea, known for their roles in the television series L'Alqueria Blanca, and the actor Rafael Fernández from Calpe.
A cast of godfathers and stars
The magic of the festival was enhanced by the presence of renowned figures from the national scene. Basque actor Unax Ugalde, as the patron of this edition, lent his warmth and experience to the event, having participated in series such as at eleven at home, Companions o El grupo, and in his role in Journalists. Her interpretation in El grupo It earned him the Actors Union nomination for Breakthrough Actor in 2000.
Alongside him, the presence of established actors such as Carlos Santos, winner of the Goya Award for Best New Actor, known for his work in series such as The atomic shelter y Paco's Men, among others.
Support emerging Valencian talent
This edition has been distinguished by its strong commitment to local audiovisual talent. The official selection of short films has showcased emerging Valencian talent, highlighting the technical maturity, sensitivity, and narrative boldness of filmmakers from the Valencian Community.
Also present were local actresses such as Berta Bolufer, who has stood out in productions such as the series Pure bloodXavi Pastor, the young man from Moraira, is part of feature films such as Aaron or series like Breatheand the actress from the same town, Lydia Triebel, who has appeared in series such as Macho AlfaAlso present was Fernando Corral, an actor from Busot, known for the series Wild Valley.
Each session was filled with emotion, with heartfelt applause for a new generation of filmmakers. Furthermore, each session featured the presence of one of the short film creators, a gesture greatly appreciated by the audience.
Godfather Unax Ugalde has stated that it is "a pleasure and an honor to be the godfather of this festival this year and I look forward to sharing cinema "We've been with you all these days. We owe it to the public, and seeing a packed house is a pleasure, so thank you very much and enjoy yourselves."
Final acts
Today is the last day of screenings for this edition. Tomorrow Friday It will be a big day in honor of the godfather, Unax Ugalde. 19:00h Its star will be unveiled, located behind the Puríssima Xiqueta Basilica.
With the aim of showcasing different locations in Benissa, the 22:00hUnax Ugalde will present his film on Fustera beach. The Good NewsAfter the screening, a party will be held in honor of Ugalde at El Rall restaurant, the festival's official sponsor, with free admission for attendees.
La II edition the Benissa en Corto festival will end Saturday, 5 of Septemberat 20:00h in the new Benissa Town Hall square, which this year will host the grand Closing Gala, awards ceremony, and red carpet event. Following the event, a tribute will be offered to Van Gogh's ear and a DJ set with Dario Giner. Benissa will thus conclude a week where cinema has been the true star, making it clear that cinematic talent not only moves audiences, but also fills theaters.
