La Orotava Short Film Festival Marks New Era Under Fresh Leadership

The 21st La Orotava Short Film Festival takes place this weekend, marking a significant turning point under the new leadership of Alejandra Ojeda. As the event celebrates over two decades of history, it is returning to its roots at the Casa de la Cultura San Agustín, aiming to reconnect the local community with the art of cinema.

Beyond its artistic value, the festival serves as a vital indicator of the health of the Canary Islands' film industry. With strong support from Canary Islands Tourism, the event highlights regional talent and showcases works filmed across the archipelago. Local officials have praised the festival for its resilience, noting its ability to thrive despite economic challenges and global health crises.

This year’s edition, supported by patron Cayetana Guillén Cuervo, features two main blocks of official screenings. Friday’s program included titles such as Los murciélagos han abandonado el campanario, Tenéis que verlo, Sonrisa de mierda, Qué putas rusas, Pez al agua, BOX 3, MOHO, and In Memoriam. Saturday’s closing session, hosted by comedian Darío López, will feature Gamberra, Señuelo, Perros muerden, Tsunami, Plenitud, Cara de Cona, and Javier Fesser’s Más suerte que Zelenski.

For the new management team, this transition is a full-circle moment, as they all began their careers within the festival itself. As the event concludes with tonight’s awards ceremony and gala, organizers are keeping tickets available online, hoping to bring the community together once again for a shared cinematic experience in the heart of the town.