The 40th annual Premios Goya took place at the Auditori del Centre de Convencions Internacionals de Barcelona amidst international news of attacks by the U.S. And Israel on Iran. Whereas the geopolitical situation loomed, the gala itself largely focused on the war in Gaza, with attendees displaying pins in solidarity.
A Night of Recognition and Reflection
The gala opened with a presentation by Luis Tosar, who referenced various forms of violence. Los domingos received early recognition with Nagore Aranburu winning Best Supporting Actress. A surprise win came for Albert Serra’s documentary, Tardes de soledad, beating out Flores para Antonio. Álvaro Cervantes, of Sorda, accepted an award and dedicated it to his co-star, Miriam Garlo, who later received the Goya for Best New Actress, delivering her acceptance speech in both Spanish and sign language.
Performances and speeches throughout the night were diverse, including Cristóbal Fernández recalling his father’s sculpting and Kangding Ray honoring ravers. Actress Susan Sarandon was honored, following the farewell of Academy President Fernando Méndez-Leite. A performance of Ángeles Toledano’s rendition of Tu mirá provided a nod to Romería.
Ibero-American Cinema and Artistic Tributes
The award for Best Ibero-American Film went to Belén and Dolores Fonzi delivered a message about preventing votes for the far-right. Alba Flores performed “Nunca más usar la violencia,” a song by her father, dedicating her award for Best Original Song to him. Director María Ripoll presented the award for Best Production Direction to Sirat, marking her fourth Goya win.
Sirat continued its success with awards for photography and art direction. Gonzalo Suárez received the Goya de Honor, sharing a story on stage. The 40th anniversary of the awards was commemorated with several montages, and Helena Sanchís and Antonio Fernández Gabarre won awards for La cena and Ciudad sin sueño, respectively. Eva Libertad, of Sorda, won Best New Director.
Toni Acosta delivered the best screenplay line of the night, and Alberto Vázquez’s Decorado won Best Animated Film. Enrique Costa of Elastica accepted the award for Best European Film, which went to Valor sentimental.
Final Awards and Reflections
Los domingos reappeared later in the evening, winning Best Screenplay, and ultimately took home the awards for Best Film and Best Director for Alauda Ruiz de Azúa, who noted she was only the fourth woman to win the directing award. Rigoberta Bandini described the gala as “apañada” (alright), but questioned whether that was sufficient for the achievements of Spanish cinema in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the setting for the 2026 Goya Awards?
The 2026 Goya Awards were held at the Auditori del Centre de Convencions Internacionals de Barcelona.
Which film won Best Film at the 2026 Goya Awards?
Los domingos won Best Film at the 2026 Goya Awards.
Who received the Goya de Honor at the 2026 awards?
Gonzalo Suárez received the Goya de Honor at the 2026 awards.
Given the backdrop of international conflict and the diverse range of films and artists recognized, what does it say about the role of cinema in reflecting and responding to the world around us?
