Seminci

Seminci, short for Semana Internacional de Cine de Valladolid, is an annual film festival held in Valladolid, in the Castile and León region of Spain. Founded in 1956, it is one of the country’s oldest film festivals and has established itself as a key platform for international cinema, with a particular emphasis on artistic and innovative works.

The festival takes place each autumn, typically in October or November, and is organized with support from local and regional institutions. Seminci presents a mix of national and international films across several competitive and non-competitive sections. Its program includes feature fiction, documentary cinema, and discoveries by emerging directors, alongside retrospectives, special screenings, and industry events such as discussions and markets.

The main prize of Seminci is the Espiga de Oro (Golden Spike), awarded by an international jury to the best film in the official competition. Additional prizes include the Espiga de Plata (Silver Spike) and an Audience Award, among other jury- and industry-recognized honors. The festival often features world and national premieres, providing a platform for films seeking distribution and greater exposure.

Seminci has played a significant role in promoting Spanish and Latin American cinema and in highlighting new talent. It attracts filmmakers, critics, and industry professionals and contributes to Valladolid’s cultural calendar and tourism. The festival continues to evolve, balancing prestige with a commitment to presenting diverse voices and contemporary cinematic trends.