David Baute’s ‘Benigno’ Selected for Competition at Shanghai International Film Festival

Spanish cinema is once again making its mark on the international stage. Benigno, the latest feature-length documentary from Tenerife-born filmmaker David Baute, has been selected to compete at the 28th Shanghai International Film Festival. The festival, one of the most prestigious A-list events in the world, will host the film in its official competition for the Documentary Golden Goblet Award from June 12 to 21.

Produced by Tinglado Film, Benigno is the only Spanish live-action entry at the festival, which serves as a key gateway for Western films entering the Asian market. Filmed in Garachico between 2022 and 2025, the documentary offers an intimate look at memory and identity through the life of Benigno de León. At 88 years old, Benigno maintains a lifelong connection to his ancestral home and the traditional farming practices passed down through his family.

The film is a collaborative effort featuring cinematography by Mauro Herce—shot in Super 8mm—editing by Raúl Barreras, sound design by Nahuel Palenque, and an original score by Dori Díaz Jerez. The creative team also includes screenwriters María Abenia, Mauro Herce, and Baute, with art direction by Silvia Navarro and executive production by Elsa Hernández, Raquel Rolo, and Miguel Ángel Pérez.

This nomination follows the recent success of Baute’s animated documentary Black Butterflies (2024), which explored the climate refugee crisis and earned widespread acclaim, including Goya, Forqué, Gaudí, Platino, and Quirino awards. With Benigno, the director continues his focus on deeply human stories, this time turning toward an introspective look at heritage and roots. In Shanghai, the film will compete against entries from Chile, China, Serbia, Bulgaria, Croatia, and Macedonia.