The First Look initiative, now in its 13th year, has been a springboard for international auteur film productions, previously supporting works from countries such as the United Kingdom, Colombia, Mexico, Chile, Brazil, Israel, Poland, the Baltic countries, Portugal, Serbia, Switzerland, and Germany. This year, in partnership with the Spanish Ministry of Culture through the Instituto de la Cinematografía y de las Artes Audiovisuales (ICAA) and ICEX España Exportación e Inversiones, First Look will select six Spanish films in post-production. These projects will be presented by their producers at Locarno Pro from 9 to 11 August, offering them a unique platform to showcase their work to an international audience of industry professionals.

The choice of Spain as this year’s focus follows a long tradition of outstanding Spanish cinema at the Locarno Film Festival, with special mentions and awards for Spanish actors and directors in previous editions. Giona A. Nazzaro, Artistic Director of the Locarno Film Festival, highlighted the dynamism and diversity of the Spanish film landscape, pointing to the festival as a launching pad for the country’s extraordinary names and established filmmakers.

The “Antaviana Films First Look Award” will cover post-production services up to €50,000 along with other prizes offered by other industry companies and industry bodies, demonstrating the industry’s strong support for emerging talent and Spanish film production.

Interested producers can apply through Locarno Pro until 19 April 2024, with the final selection and winners announced in July and during the Locarno Pro Awards Ceremony, respectively, on 11 August.

Antaviana VFX & Postproduction and the Locarno International Film Festival are pleased to contribute to the international success of the new generation of Spanish filmmakers, strengthening ties and promoting innovation and creativity in filmmaking worldwide.