Basque Women Filmmakers Unleash Creative Power in Spain's Abycine Festival

Basque Women Filmmakers Unleash Their Creative Power In the picturesque city of San Sebastián, nestled in the Basque Country, a revolution is brewing. The second edition of Noka Ekoizpena, a women-focused mentorship and production-acceleration program, has kicked off with a bang, propelling six talented female directors and producers to the forefront of the industry. As their projects head to Spain's Abycine festival, we delve into the world of these trailblazing Basque women filmmakers, who are not only breaking down barriers but also creating a cinematic movement that resonates far beyond the Pyrenees. In a small café in San Sebastián's historic center, we meet Ana Oregui, one of the six selected participants. Her eyes sparkle as she talks about her project, Etxea , a poignant drama that explores the complexities of family and identity. "Noka Ekoizpena has given me the tools to turn my script into a reality," she says, her voice filled with gratitude. "The support, the guidance – it's been life-changing." But what sets Noka Ekoizpena apart from other industry programs? For starters, its unique blend of mentorship and production acceleration is tailored specifically for women in film. Funded by the Basque Government through Zineuskadi and backed by Creative Europe Media, this initiative has already made a significant impact in just two editions. "We're not just talking about providing financial support or industry connections," explains program director, Xabier Etxebarria. "We're creating a community of women who can learn from each other, share their experiences, and push the boundaries of what's possible." As we explore the city, we meet more of these talented women: Idoia Esteban, working on Bihotzak , a drama that delves into the world of Basque folk music; Miren Amuriza, developing Txirri Txirri , an animated short that explores the region's rich mythology. Each project is unique, yet they all share a common thread – a deep connection to their Basque heritage. "Noka Ekoizpena has given us a platform to tell our stories," says Idoia Esteban. "We're not just making films; we're preserving our culture and sharing it with the world." Their projects are more than just cinematic endeavors; they're a testament to the power of storytelling in shaping identity, community, and social change. As they prepare to showcase their work at Abycine Lanza, the excitement is palpable. "This is not just about us as filmmakers," says Ana Oregui. "It's about creating a movement that inspires other women to take control of their own stories." As we watch these talented women filmmakers take center stage, it's clear that Noka Ekoizpena has ignited something special in the Basque Country – a spark that will continue to burn bright for years to come. With each new project, they're not only pushing the boundaries of what's possible but also leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema. The future is female, and it's being written in Basque. *Based on reporting by Variety.*