Don't miss your chance to see a Luis Buñuel masterpiece on the big screen. Join us in closing this year's festival with a nod to the revered Spanish director who changed the landscape of cinema forever, with a special screening of Tristana, starring Catherine Deneuve.

Orphaned as a young woman, Tristana (Deneuve) is taken in by well-respected, yet impoverished aristocrat Don Lope (Fernando Rey). It’s not long before Tristana’s entry into his life awakens desires and he takes advantage of her vulnerable situation, seducing her into a twisted and possesive relationship.

Closing Night events in all cities will feature the only festival screenings of this tour de force classic. All screenings will be preceded by sangria upon arrival!

FESTIVAL GUEST - Maribel Verdú
We are overjoyed to announce Spanish Actress Maribel Verdú as a guest of this year's festival. Celebrated in both Spain and internationally, Verdú has captivated audiences in films such as Y tu mamá también, Guillermo del Toro's Pan's Labyrinth, Lovers (Amantes), Belle Époque, The Blind Sunflowers (Los girasoles ciegos) and recently in the critically acclaimed Blancanieves. Maribel Verdú will grace our screens in two films at this year's festival: the riveting thriller THE END, as well as the tender and touching drama 15 YEARS + 1 DAY. Not only will Verdú will be in attendance at Opening Night in Sydney at Palace Verona, but special screenings in Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra will be followed by a Q&A session or be introduced by the actress herself. Be sure to book your tickets fast as these sessions are sure to sell out!

We are thrilled to welcome Mexican director Natalia Beristáin as a guest of this year’s festival. In her debut feature, SHE DOESN’T WANT TO SLEEP ALONE (No quiero dormir sola), Beristáin has crafted a gentle, character driven drama about two women at very different stages of life, who need one another more than they realise. Special screenings in Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra will be followed by a Q&A session with the director.