Ficmec Opens Registration for ECOrueda Express Film Contest

The Canary Islands International Environmental Film Festival (Ficmec) has opened registration for its "ECOrueda" audiovisual contest. The initiative aims to raise environmental awareness through storytelling.

This competition is part of the festival’s 28th edition, which will take place in two stages: Garachico (May 28–31) and Icod de los Vinos (June 4–7). The contest will be held in Icod de los Vinos as an "express" filmmaking challenge, where teams of filmmakers, actors, and technicians must write, shoot, and edit a short film within a very tight deadline.

The competition officially begins on Thursday, June 4, at 5:00 p.m., when the secret theme is revealed. Teams will have two days to complete their work, with final entries due on Sunday, June 7, between 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. The films will be screened for the public later that day at 12:00 p.m.

José Víctor Fuentes, who leads the contest coordination team, believes that film is a powerful tool for social change and reflecting on our modern lifestyles. The competition encourages creators to share their perspectives on the environment through a collaborative, fast-paced format.

The jury will award a first prize of 500 euros and a second prize of 250 euros. Those interested in participating can find the rules and registration forms on the festival’s official website at ficmec.es/ecorueda/.

Express filming challenges like this have become a popular way to boost local creativity and artistic experimentation in Spain. By hosting this event, Ficmec not only supports the local film industry but also promotes sustainability, helping to connect the climate crisis with our everyday lives.