Now in our 15th year, the Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival stays true to its mission: BRIDGING CULTURES - BRIDGING PEOPLE via international film to shape a creative community for independent filmmakers to network, be inspired, and thrive in this exciting Mediterranean island paradise.

 

The entire 2026 program will feature over 150 projects across all categories. This year boasts the largest Feature Film selection programmed to date at EMIFF, including International Feature Films, Debut Feature Films, and Spotlight Screenings. International documentaries round out the full Features lineup this year.

 

 

Festival Highlights 2025

The Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival (EMIFF) ran from October 21 to 29, 2025, in Palma de Mallorca, where it celebrated the art of film while promoting international collaboration and cultural exchange.  

One of the festival’s most important pillars was the Cinematography Focus, which celebrated its fourth edition as a vital platform that advanced the craft of cinematography through education, networking, and recognition of artistic excellence.  

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That year’s distinguished program paid tribute to Oscar-nominated cinematographer Phedon Papamichael, ASC, GSC, who was honored with the prestigious Cinematography Icon Award 2025 during the opening gala, alongside other prominent figures of the international film community.  

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The veteran cinematographer had received two Academy Award nominations for Best Cinematography: first for Alexander Payne’s black-and-white masterpiece Nebraska (2013), and later for Aaron Sorkin’s The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020). Papamichael continued the tradition of brilliant cinematographers honored as icons at EMIFF, following in the footsteps of Anthony Dod Mantle, DFF, BSC, ASC; Erik Messerschmidt, ASC; and Ed Lachman, ASC.  

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“The 4th Cinematography Focus represented our commitment to celebrating the art and vital craft of cinematography, which perfectly blends both the technical and creative sides of filmmaking,” said Festival Director Sandra Lipski. “Since establishing this program in 2022, we built a thriving community where filmmakers could explore the latest technical innovations, engage in meaningful conversations about evolving shooting styles, and receive top-tier education from industry leaders. Daytime programs of masterclasses, panels, and the Gear Lounge were complemented by nightly film screenings throughout the Cinematography Focus, offering equal measures of training and inspiration.”  

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The 2025 Cinematography Focus was made possible thanks to strategic partnerships with leading industry sponsors and collaborators. Sony led the initiative as main sponsor, providing cutting-edge camera technology and hosting exclusive panels with top cinematographers. Astera contributed innovative lighting solutions and presented the highly anticipated masterclass “Anatomy of a Scene.” Leitz showcased its precision optics and legendary lens craftsmanship throughout the Gear Lounge experience. Palma Pictures provided local production expertise and industry connections, while ARRI completed the partnership. Together, these partners created an unparalleled platform for cinematographers to experience the latest technological innovations and connect with industry leaders. The Focus also collaborated with key sector organizations and media, including the International Federation of Cinematographers (IMAGO), the Spanish Society of Cinematographers (AEC), Camera&Light magazine, British Cinematographer, and Film and Digital Times, whose involvement broadened the global reach of the program and underscored Mallorca as a central hub for the international film community.  

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