This Year’s Spanish & Latin American Film Festival Is Diverse & Endlessly Entertaining

The Spanish Film Festival has returned for 2026! This year there were 100 titles shortlisted, films which were considered the most interesting and entertaining for audiences. The finalised program of 28 films includes dramas, comedies and documentaries that should spark culture and conversation.

The festival returns this year with the inclusion of ‘Latin American’ in the title of the festival – so that everyone interested in, or from Latin America, know that it’s a festival for them, too.

Palace Cinemas CEO Benjamin Zeccola loves everything Spanish and believes this film festival is exotic from the opening night film Mistura and afterparty right until the closing night retrospective screening of The Hunt.

“There are films set in Uruguay, Mexico, Spain and Argentina which are really diverse and endlessly entertaining. Spanish is a language which is widely spoken around the world, and I think these films do travel. People are interested in things that are Spanish and Latin American because there’s a sense of passion and a distinct flavour.”

When asked whether there’s a particular theme in this year’s program Zeccola explained the theme of overcoming adversity emerged naturally, as The Spanish and Latin American filmmakers respond to the world around them.

“There are love stories, dramas, thrillers and most of them are about overcoming some form of adversity whether it’s prejudice, a language or physical barrier, faith and vocation. All these challenges are dealt with in this festival.”

He believes the drama Sundays is the film in this year’s program most probable to spark debate. This film centres on a teenage girl who tells her family she wants to enter the convent and dedicate her life to God. This announcement throws the family into chaos.

“It’s so interesting because 100 years ago the family would have celebrated it, but in  modern times it’s like you have a life to live and so much to achieve. It’s not a film to promote that sort of a lifestyle, it’s a really balanced and honest exploration of vocation and faith. It was a box office hit in Spain, and I think it will be highly anticipated here.”

When asked which is a standout comedy screening at the festival Zeccola highly recommended Homo Sapiens? an Argentinian satirical comedy co-written and directed by Gaston Duprat and Mariano Cohn which delves on identity, human behaviour and modern life.

“You must watch this! It’s about the human condition and I think audiences will find it laugh-out-funny!”

The Captive is a thrilling historical drama set in 1575 from Alejandro Amenabar which Zeccola also stresses is not to be missed. Miguel de Cervantes is captured by pirates and sold into slavery in Algiers. He survives 5 years by telling stories and eventually bonds with his captor Hason Baja.

Zeccola warns moviegoers that their only chance of watching these films is at the festival itself as no more than two of these titles will receive a limited cinematic release after the film festival.

“And perhaps another two may be available to watch on SBS On Demand in 12 months  time. These films don’t receive the television or streaming attention they deserve which is good for the festival!”

Hot picks for the 2026 Spanish & Latin American Film Festival

Zeccola has given City Hub his hot picks for this year’s festival:

LA SALSA VIVE – is a heartfelt love letter to salsa music. Directed by Columbian filmmaker Juan Carvajal, this is the best fun, best music and best dancing documentary since Buena Vista Social Club. It traces salsa from 1970s New York origins to Cali, Columbia and celebrates community and legacy.

LUGER – An independent action-thriller reminiscent of Guy Richie and Tarantino films. Two Madrid hustlers steal a car for cash but find a WWII Luger pistol inside which could be worth a fortune. Gangsters chase them, evoking violence, betrayal and unexpected redemption.

NOTHING BETWEEN US – a beautiful romantic comedy which stars Gael Garcia Bernal. Centres on married execs Guillermo and Mechi living continents apart who meet at work. Though both have spouses, their growing connection makes them rethink their boring lives and what they want from life.

The 2026 Spanish & Latin American Film Festival is on from June 18 – July 12 at Palace Norton Street, Palace Moore Park and Palace Central.