Trending Now - Spanish Film 'maspalomas' Takes Top Honors at Sonoma Festival
WHO:
Deadline - The film "Maspalomas" was directed by Jose Mari Goenaga and Aitor Arregi.
Variety - The film "Maspalomas" is a Spanish queer drama.
WHAT:
IndieWire - The Sonoma International Film Festival presented 104 films from 37 countries, including 41 narrative features, 16 documentaries, and 47 short films.
IndieWire - The narrative audience award was won by Steven Soderbergh’s film "The Christophers," which is set to be released by Neon on April 10th, 2026.
IndieWire - The Grand Jury Award for Best Documentary Feature was awarded to "State of Firsts," directed by Chase Joynt, for its portrayal of leadership and responsibility in a politically charged environment.
Deadline - "Maspalomas" won the Grand Jury Award for Best Narrative Feature at the 29th Sonoma International Film Festival.
Variety - "Maspalomas" was recognized for being an "authentic and rare depiction of an elder man confronting personal and physical crisis."
WHERE:
Deadline - The awards were presented at the Sonoma International Film Festival.
WHEN:
IndieWire - The Sonoma International Film Festival took place from March 25th to March 29th, 2026.
Deadline - The 29th Sonoma International Film Festival wrapped on March 29th, 2026.
WHY:
Deadline - The jury described "Maspalomas" as a “bold, emotionally charged portrait of identity, aging, and resilience.”
HOW:
Variety - The film was awarded based on its narrative and thematic content as evaluated by the jury.
(UPDATED March 30, 2026 09:17 UTC)
The Sonoma International Film Festival wrapped up on Sunday, showcasing 104 films from 37 countries, including 41 narrative features, 16 documentaries, and 47 short films. Steven Soderbergh’s film "The Christophers" won the narrative audience award and is set for release by NeApril 10th, while the Grand Jury Award for Best Documentary Feature went to "State of Firsts," directed by Chase Joynt, for its insightful look at leadership in a politically charged environment. This year's festival celebrated a diverse range of storytelling and talent from around the globe.
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(UPDATED March 30, 2026 03:58 UTC)
At the 29th Sonoma International Film Festival, which wrapped on Sunday, the Spanish queer drama "Maspalomas," directed by Jose Mari Goenaga and Aitor Arregi, won the Grand Jury Award for Best Narrative Feature. The jury praised the film for its bold and emotionally charged portrayal of identity, aging, and resilience, highlighting its authentic depiction of an elder man facing personal and physical crises. "Maspalomas" was recognized for its narrative and thematic depth, making it a standout at the festival.