Lav Diaz's "Magellan" Wins Golden Spike at 70th Valladolid International Film Festival

The 70th edition of the Valladolid International Film Festival (SEMINCI) has honored Filipino director Lav Diaz with its highest distinction, the Golden Spike, awarded to his epic historical drama "Magellan." This notable achievement places Diaz’s film above submissions from esteemed filmmakers such as Luc and Jean-Pierre Dardenne, Sergei Loznitsa, Bi Gan, and Gabriel Mascaro.

"Magellan," set in the 16th century, ties for the festival’s top prize alongside Kelly Reichardt’s "The Mastermind." The internationally acclaimed filmmaker expressed his dedication to both his country and the Philippine film industry, stating, "Para sa bayan at para sa pelikulang Pilipino (For the Philippines and for Filipino film)."

Featuring Gael Garcia Bernal as the titular explorer, "Magellan" represents the Philippines' entry in the Best International Feature category at the 98th Academy Awards. The film has enjoyed screenings across the Philippines and numerous international film festivals, having premiered globally at the Cannes Film Festival in May under the prestigious Cannes Premiere section.

Critics have praised the film’s craftsmanship, with The Hollywood Reporter describing it as an "exquisitely crafted feature (that) may be one of the director’s most accessible works to date." The film boasts a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, further emphasizing its critical acclaim.

Shot across multiple locations including the Philippines, Spain, and Portugal, "Magellan" features an ensemble cast including Angela Azevedo, Amado Arjay Babon, Ronnie Lazaro, Hazel Orencio, Rafael Morais, Bong Cabrera, Dario Yazbek Bernal, and Tomas Alves alongside Bernal.

Lav Diaz’s win at SEMINCI not only highlights his exceptional storytelling but also strengthens the global presence of Filipino cinema.