Actor Steve Buscemi, known for his roles in titles such as The Sopranos, Reservoir Dogs, Fargo, The Big Lebowski and the series Boardwalk Empire, for which he won a Golden Globe, will be one of the star guests at the 14th edition of the Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival (EMIFF). The actor, director and screenwriter will receive the Evolution Icon Award, the accolade presented by the festival to recognise the career of a major figure in cinema. The announcement was made on Tuesday at a press conference by Sandra Lipski, founder and director of the festival, which will take place from 21 to 29 October in Palma.
Buscemi joins other big names already announced, such as the prestigious cinematographer Phedon Papamichael, ASC, GSC, an Oscar nominee and international reference in the art of cinematography, who will receive the Cinematography Icon Award. Known for his exceptional sensitivity to light and composition, Papamichael has left his mark on landmark titles such as Nebraska, Ford v Ferrari, The Trial of the Chicago 7 and Walk the Line.
One of the most influential directors in Spanish cinema, Julio Medem, will be honoured with the Evolution Vision Award. With a unique and poetic style, Medem revolutionised Spanish cinema in the 1990s and 2000s with films such as Vacas, Los amantes del Círculo Polar and Lucía y el sexo.
Spanish-Swedish actress Ingrid García-Jonsson will receive the Evolution New Talent Award 2025. Considered one of the freshest and most promising voices in Spanish cinema, García-Jonsson achieved international recognition with Beautiful Youth, presented at Cannes, followed by titles such as Ana by Day and the musical comedy My Heart Goes Boom!. She currently stars in the Netflix series Superstar, consolidating her versatility and global projection.
The event will bring together more than a hundred filmmakers from 30 countries, with premieres, tributes to major industry figures and a full professional programme that “consolidates EMIFF as one of the most important film festivals in Europe.”
“EMIFF is a boutique festival that combines intimacy with international scope. We want to continue being a space where emerging and established filmmakers grow together, motivated by the transformative power of cinema,” Lipski highlighted.
This year’s programme features more than 130 titles from 30 countries, selected from 1,150 international submissions. Eight of these titles are national premieres and 47 form part of the Made in Baleares section, through which the festival reaffirms its commitment to local talent. This section showcases the creativity of island-based filmmakers, strengthens Mallorca’s position as a benchmark location for audiovisual production, and offers Balearic creators the opportunity to present their work to an international audience.
“What makes Evolution unique is its spirit and ambition. We offer one of the most extensive industry programmes in Spain, making Evolution a point of reference for both creation and professional connections. Our reach is international, thanks to the exceptional content and the presence of first-rate guests from all over the world. Supporting new talent is at the heart of our mission; we not only offer screenings and recognition, but also financial awards to promote new voices,” Lipski explained.