Puerto de la Cruz Hosts Rueda Academia de Cine for Fourth Year

Puerto de la Cruz is set to host Rueda Academia de Cine for the fourth year in a row next week, making it a key hub for up-and-coming Spanish filmmakers. This program is a joint effort by the Spanish Academy of Cinematographic Arts and Sciences and the Culture Department of the city's council. They also work with the regional government (through the Canary Islands Film Commission) and the Cabildo (Tenerife Tourism, via the Tenerife Film Commission).

From Monday, February 2 to Friday, February 6, the event will bring together six participants from Rueda and twenty from the Residencias Academia de Cine program. Five permanent residents involved with the initiative will also join them. Together, they will form a collaborative space to develop projects and share professional insights.

Puerto de la Cruz is one of three cities, along with Madrid and Vigo, that hosts Rueda's in-person sessions. It's designed as a creative residency for screenwriters and filmmakers who need a flexible way to develop their projects, blending remote and in-person work. During their time, participants get advice and feedback on their projects, learn from industry professionals, and take part in activities that link cinema with the public and local schools.

Mayor Leopoldo Afonso commented, "The return of the Rueda program shows that Puerto de la Cruz is now a key location for modern film and TV production. Investing in culture helps drive development by fostering knowledge, talent, and our city's profile. This program puts us on the national cinema map with a sustainable, long-term outlook."

The program itself includes mentoring sessions, discussions, film screenings, professional forums, and specialized workshops.

Cristóbal de la Rosa, the Director General of Cultural Innovation and Creative Industries for the regional government, pointed out that this year's program will highlight Canarian cinema. This includes showing José Alayón's film 'La lucha.' Additionally, local filmmakers like Arima León and Pablo Vilas will lead some sessions and share their experiences.

Filmmakers from across Spain will follow an intensive schedule, featuring personalized mentoring, discussions, screenings, professional gatherings, and specialized workshops. A highlight will be the sound workshops led by Eva Valiño, who will offer expert, practical insights into sound design's crucial role in modern storytelling.

The program also includes a tour of Puerto de la Cruz and its surrounding areas to scout for filming locations. This gives participants a direct look at the region's potential for film production and creative projects. Overall, the event encourages deep thought, sharing of ideas, and direct networking with industry experts.

Rueda Academia de Cine aims to link professional filmmaking with the local community, including an educational aspect. In previous years in Puerto de la Cruz, about 800 high school students (from ESO and Bachillerato levels) have taken part. This year, that number is expected to grow, with 300 students attending the planned activities.