HISTORY OF SCREENINGS AND TALKS
October 30, 2025: " AMAL "
Last Thursday, October 30th, the Lanzarote Youth Film Series once again provided a space for reflection and critical dialogue, this time in Room 2 of the Deiland Multiplex, with a screening of AMAL, by Moroccan-Belgian director Jawad Rhalib. The session was very well received and generated significant social impact, selling out several days in advance, demonstrating the growing interest among Lanzarote's youth in participating in cultural initiatives with a social and educational perspective.
The film, internationally acclaimed for its courageous and profound exploration of coexistence in pluralistic societies, raises an urgent question about the challenges facing educational communities in increasingly diverse contexts. Rhalib, known for his commitment to social cinema, offers a direct and honest portrayal of the conflicts that arise when different cultural and religious identities coexist in the same space, and how intolerance and extremism can threaten democratic values and mutual respect.
After the screening, a significant portion of the audience remained in the room to participate in an open discussion that evolved into an exchange of experiences, perspectives, and shared questions. The debate addressed key issues such as multicultural coexistence in classrooms, the role of education as a tool for preventing radicalization, the importance of intercultural dialogue, and the need to foster critical, empathetic, and inclusive citizenship. It was also emphasized how religious extremism can erode coexistence and generate tensions that directly affect young people, especially in educational settings.
In closing, a central reflection was highlighted: in an increasingly diverse world, education must become a space that promotes understanding, respect, and the ability to question exclusionary narratives. The film encouraged viewers to recognize plurality as a value and to reaffirm the importance of building bridges through listening, understanding, and the active defense of human rights.
The series continues next Thursday, November 27th, at the Atlántida Multiplex in Arrecife with a screening of “Las chicas de la estación” (The Girls at the Station), by Spanish director Juana Macías. This new session promises to further solidify this space for young people to meet around film, opening new conversations and reinforcing the series' commitment to critical thinking, diversity, and cultural participation.
Photographs by Rubén Rodríguez
TikTok @ciclocine_jlanzarote
September 25, 2025: " The Fighters Club "
Last Thursday, September 25th, the Lanzarote Youth Film Series once again transformed the Atlántida Multiplex in Arrecife into a space for collective reflection with the screening of The Fighters Club, by Canadian director and screenwriter Emma Seligman, considered one of the most interesting emerging voices in contemporary independent cinema. Her style is characterized by its freshness, irreverence, and social commentary that blends humor and critique with a distinctive personal voice.
After the screening, some of the audience remained in the theater to participate in a discussion that evolved into a long and deeply human conversation. Ubay T. Alemán, director of the Canary Islands-based production company ROFE, which is dedicated to showcasing local talent and promoting multidisciplinary projects with a strong social and cultural commitment, participated in the discussion.
The debate addressed central themes of the film: the importance of queer visibility and the diversity of identities; sisterhood as a support network against gender violence; social pressure and stereotypes in adolescence; the use of humor and satire as critical tools; and the role of feminism in building freer and more inclusive spaces.
In closing, a highly relevant reflection was highlighted: in contemporary society, more and more people are occupying spaces in the fight for diversity and equality, challenging historical prejudices and questioning the privileges of heteronormativity. The film connected with this broader movement, in which lesbians, gays, bisexuals, trans people, non-binary people, pansexuals, asexuals, intersex people, and many other identities converge, celebrating plurality and authenticity.
The cycle will continue on 30/10/2025 with the screening of "AMAL" by Jawad Rhalib , which promises to open new debates and continue consolidating this meeting space around cinema and youth reflection.
Photographs by Rubén Rodríguez
TikTok @ciclocine_jlanzarote
August 28, 2025: "Radical"
Last Wednesday, August 28, the Lanzarote Youth Cinema series once again brought together a large audience at the Atlántida Multicines in Arrecife, confirming once again the growing interest that this cultural initiative arouses.
On this occasion, the chosen film was Radical, by filmmaker Christopher Zalla, a work that transports us to the reality of a Mexican classroom marked by social and educational difficulties, but also by the possibility of transforming lives through the power of teaching.
As in previous years, some members of the audience remained in the theater after the screening to participate in a discussion. The debate centered on the Spanish education system, and it wasn't long before some of its structural deficiencies were pointed out: excessive bureaucratic hurdles that hinder teachers' work, a lack of freedom to innovate in the classroom, and a worrying tendency to limit children's creativity instead of fostering it.
Between emotion and constructive criticism, the session reminded us that cinema can be a powerful tool to open necessary debates, shake up inertia and put on the table what we often prefer not to look at head-on.
The series continues next Wednesday, September 25, with a screening of Emma Seligman's The Fighters Club. This irreverent comedy follows two unpopular lesbian seniors in high school who decide to start a fight club to impress the cheerleaders and win their hearts. What begins as a fun plan soon becomes a bigger challenge than they anticipated.
Photographs by Daniel Cabecera
TikTok @ciclocine_jlanzarote
July 31, 2025: "The Two Faces of Justice"
Last Wednesday, July 31st, the Lanzarote Youth Film Series once again transformed the Atlántida Multiplex in Arrecife into a space for collective reflection with a screening of "The Two Faces of Justice" by French filmmaker Jeanne Herry. This intense and courageous film immersed us in the complex world of restorative justice, reopening the door to a profound and necessary conversation about how we approach harm, forgiveness, and reparation.
The film, based on true events, showed us the delicate and transformative process of bringing victims and perpetrators face to face, not to punish, but to understand, heal, and rebuild. This approach directly challenges the pillars of the traditional punitive system and generated a passionate and enriching debate among the audience.
After the screening, a large audience remained in the room to participate in the subsequent discussion, which quickly became an open forum for diverse ideas, emotions, and viewpoints. The limits and possibilities of restorative justice were discussed in relation to the type of crime, and a critical reflection was offered on the role of the Spanish prison system: is it truly geared towards rehabilitation or is it still anchored in the logic of punishment?
Topics such as immigration, racism, redemption, and cooperation also emerged strongly, making it clear that talking about justice is not just about laws, but about humanity. The conversation was especially enriched by the presence of professionals with direct experience in these areas: lawyers, prison officers, and representatives of groups actively working at the Tahíche Penitentiary Center.
Between emotion, criticism, and hope, the session reminded us that cinema can be much more than entertainment: it can be a tool to question the established order, to listen to the invisible, and to imagine, together, other ways of living together and repairing.
The cycle continues, and each meeting reaffirms its commitment to critical thinking and collective dialogue. Because every film is an excuse to look each other in the eye, and every discussion, an opportunity to build a more just future through listening.
Photographs by Rubén Rodríguez
TikTok @ciclocine_jlanzarote
June 26, 2025: "The Monk and the Rifle"
Last Wednesday, June 26, the Lanzarote Youth Cinema cycle once again filled the Multicines Atlántida in Arrecife with reflection and dialogue, with a new session where cinema becomes, once again, a bridge between emotions, critical thinking and collective encounter.
This time, the film screened was The Monk and the Rifle , an original contemporary fable set in Bhutan , directed by Pawo Choyning Dorji . The film, full of subtle humor and symbolism, invites us to observe with detachment—and a touch of irony—the contradictions between tradition and modernity, spirituality and materialism, identity and globalization. All of this is framed within the country's democratic transition process.
After the screening, a large group of attendees remained in their seats to participate in the subsequent discussion, creating an atmosphere of intense and shared conversation. The discussion revolved around the impact of the film itself and its ability to question the values that underpin our consumer society, as well as to highlight the increasingly visible cracks in our Western democracies.
The discussion focused on how cinema can function as a distorting mirror that, through humor and metaphor, reflects back a clear image of who we are and who we are becoming. The film opened a space for reflection on themes such as the loss of meaning in our hyper-connected lives, the need for spiritual roots in a world saturated with material stimuli, and the limits of democratic participation when it is not accompanied by critical awareness.
The series continues with a new screening on the horizon. The next showing will be on Wednesday, July 31st, at 7:00 PM, again at the Multicines Atlántida in Arrecife. This time we will see *The Two Faces of Justice* , by French director Jeanne Herry , a courageous work that delves into restorative justice processes to explore pain, forgiveness, and the possibility of rebuilding after harm.
A new meeting point to continue using cinema as an excuse to reflect on ourselves, question ourselves and, above all, listen to each other.
Photos taken by Daniel Cabecera.
May 29, 2025: "Kepler Sixth B"
Last Thursday, May 29th, the Lanzarote Youth Film Series once again brought together young people, film enthusiasts, and lovers of dialogue at the Atlántida Cinemas in Arrecife, for another day where cinema becomes a pretext for thinking, feeling, and sharing. This time, the film screened was Kepler Sexto B, directed by Alejandro Suárez Lozano, a moving urban fable that addresses themes such as loneliness, displacement, and the need to find refuge in an increasingly disconnected world.
The story of Zaida, a young woman surviving in a hostile environment, and her unexpected relationship with an eccentric old man who claims to be from another planet, served as a starting point for reflecting on marginalization, fantasy as an escape, and the importance of human connection. Beyond its fantastical veneer, the film brought to the forefront very real issues: the abandonment of the elderly, social invisibility, and the value of small gestures that can change a life.
As usual, after the screening we held one of our discussion panels, where film becomes a lively conversation. This time we were joined by Natalia Concepción, a young filmmaker from Lanzarote who won an award at the Roberto Pérez Toledo Short Film Festival, and Aimar Medina, an occupational therapist from the Flora Acoge Foundation of the Canary Islands, an organization that runs the Social Inclusion Program on the island.
Natalia shared her youthful perspective on the power of film as a tool for making silenced emotions and realities visible, while Aimar presented the project "Support for Lonely Seniors," which serves elderly people without a social or family support network and in vulnerable situations. Their contributions offered valuable insights that connected the story of Kepler Sexto B with real-world problems in our society, creating an enriching, engaging, and participatory space for dialogue.
The colloquium addressed topics such as emotional loneliness in young people and the elderly, marginalization and precariousness, institutional abandonment, and the transformative power of intergenerational bonds. Participants also reflected on imagination as a refuge, the need for emotional resources in education, and the importance of reclaiming the value of the everyday: a kind word, an unexpected visit, a knowing glance.
One of the most moving moments was when a young attendee shared his experience during the pandemic, recalling how solidarity and mutual care arose spontaneously in times of difficulty, an experience that resonated with the hopeful message of the film.
We are already preparing the next session of the series, which will take place on Thursday, June 26, at 7:00 p.m. at the Atlántida Cinemas in Arrecife. The chosen film will be The Monk and the Rifle, an original contemporary fable set in Bhutan that combines spirituality, humor, and social commentary within the context of the country's democratic transition. A new opportunity to continue reflecting together on the major themes of our time through the universal language of cinema.
We look forward to continuing to build community through cinema with you!
Photos taken by Daniel Cabecera.
April 24, 2025: "Fighting as a Family"
On April 24th, the Lanzarote Youth Cinema series once again brought together young people, film enthusiasts, and lovers of dialogue at the Atlántida Cinemas in Arrecife, for another day where cinema becomes a starting point for reflection and connection. This time, the film screened was "Fighting with My Family," an inspiring dramedy directed by Stephen Merchant, based on the true story of a young fighter who defies stereotypes and overcomes obstacles both inside and outside the ring.
As usual, after the screening, one of our now-iconic discussion sessions took place, where cinema becomes a conversation. Our special guest was David Aguiar Bonilla, from the Altura Norte Sports Club , who shared with the attendees an enriching reflection on the culture of effort, perseverance, dedication, and the valuable lessons that sport—and especially martial arts—can impart to young people.
David spoke to us about discipline, personal growth, and respect—values that also resonate at the heart of the film. It was an intimate setting, fostering a very human dialogue between the audience and our guest, demonstrating once again that cinema is not only watched, but also experienced and reflected upon.
We're already preparing the next session of the series, which will take place at the same venue, the Atlántida Cinemas in Arrecife, on May 29th. The chosen film will be "Keppler Sexto B," a unique offering that's sure to give us plenty to talk about.
We look forward to continuing to build community through cinema with you!
Photos taken by Rubén Rodríguez
March 27, 2025: "Green Book"
As part of the International Day for the Elimination of Social Discrimination, the feature film "Green Book," directed by Peter Farrelly and starring Mahershala Ali and Viggo Mortensen, was screened as part of the Lanzarote Youth Cinema series, an initiative of the Lanzarote Island Council's Youth Department.
The film, starring these two great actors, places us like no other in the deepest South of the USA, where the rights of black people were conspicuous by their absence in a key era for the fight for racial equality.
After the screening, we had the pleasure of speaking with Linda Santamaría, an educator in juvenile detention centers and a woman of color (Latin American), and Benjamín Abeso (Grandiosa Producciones), a filmmaker and creative of Equatorial Guinean origin. During the discussion, we talked about racism, privilege, marginalization, and how these affect young people in schools, and how some teachers and schools are more concerned with these issues than others. There was an interesting dialogue between several generations of high school and vocational students and teachers and counselors of different ages.
Our next screening will be on April 24th, and we'll be enjoying the feature film "Fighting with My Family" by Stephen Merchant. This time, it will be at the Deiland cinema in Playa Honda.
Thank you to all the attendees.
Photos taken by Rubén Rodríguez
February 27, 2025 - "THE VOLUNTEER"
As part of International NGO Day, the feature film La Voluntaria, directed by Nely Reguera, was screened as part of the Cine Juventud Lanzarote cycle, an initiative of the Youth Department of the Lanzarote Island Council.
The film, starring the magnificent Carmen Machi, offers a gripping and emotionally contradictory story, with the world of humanitarian aid as its backdrop.
After the screening, in a packed auditorium, we had the pleasure of speaking with several members of the NGO Calor y Café, who shared their valuable experiences, reminding us once again that reality surpasses fiction. We were also joined by volunteers from various organizations both on and off Lanzarote, including the now-defunct Lanzarote Acoge. During the discussion, the work of these organizations was highlighted, as was the personal enrichment that volunteering provides, and, above all, the limits of personal involvement in this work, since charity, even the most well-intentioned, as the film points out, is not equivalent to social justice.
Our next screening will be on March 27th, in observance of the International Day Against Racism. On this occasion, we will enjoy Green Book, Peter Farrelly's masterpiece.
Thank you to all the attendees.
Photos taken by Daniel Cabecera.
January 30, 2025 - "CAPTAIN FANTASTIC"
On January 30, as part of the International Day of Environmental Education, the feature film "Captain Fantastic", directed by Matt Ross, was screened as part of the Lanzarote Youth Cinema cycle, an initiative of the Youth area of the Lanzarote Island Council.
A heartwarming film that earned Viggo Mortensen nominations for the Golden Globes and the Oscars for best actor.
What is the best education for children? Many parents despair when their children begin to define their personality, but the words that come out of their mouths are not what the parents expected to hear, either because of a display of intelligence inappropriate for their age that puts the adults to shame or because of an alarming lack of knowledge.
In this first screening of the year, we had the pleasure of speaking with Juan Cazorla, biologist and technician at the Lanzarote Island Council's Biosphere Reserve Office, about the meaning of environmental education and the efforts being made to protect, through education, a unique landscape like ours. During an engaging conversation, the limits of prohibition, respect, and the need for regulation in the protected areas of our island were discussed. The difficulty of halting what some call "progress," as opposed to conservation, was also addressed, as well as where to find the balance between these two worldviews.
On February 27th, as part of World NGO Day, we will have our second screening of the year. The film will be "The Volunteer," directed by Nely Reguera, starring Carmen Machi, whose performances we always enjoy.
Thank you all for your attendance.
December 14, 2024 - "THE WHALE"
On December 14, as part of the “National Obese Person Day”, the feature film “The Whale”, directed by Darren Aronofsky , was screened as part of the “Lanzarote Youth Cinema” cycle, an initiative of the Youth Department of the Lanzarote Island Council.
This film marked Brendan Fraser's return to the screen, earning him a well-deserved Oscar for Best Actor. In addition, the film garnered awards for Best Makeup, several BAFTAs, Golden Globes, and countless other well-deserved international accolades.
This tough yet heartwarming story unfolds in a single location and revolves around a lonely, severely obese professor attempting to reconnect with his teenage daughter in one last chance at redemption.
After the screening, we had the pleasure of speaking with Silverio Campos, a prominent member of the TRIB-ARTE association, which, among other social work, guides teenagers at risk of social exclusion or with severe family problems, aiming to integrate them into society. They use art as a catalyst for this process.
Once again, and for the third consecutive month, the "SOLT OUT" sign was hung at the Atlántida cinemas and, during a pleasant and highly participatory talk, we were able to unpack the personality of each of the characters, focusing on their particular way of managing and externalizing their feelings and their pain.
We thank all the attendees for sharing in such an enriching experience. Without a doubt, cinema is a reflection of our society. It helps us understand ourselves by seeing ourselves reflected on the big screen.
Following this year's resounding success, a new season of the "Lanzarote Youth Cinema" series will kick off next Thursday, January 30th, at 7:00 p.m. at the Atlántida Cinemas in Arrecife. With monthly screenings on the last Thursday of each month, films with messages for the young people of our island will be shown, contributing to raising awareness of their problems, obstacles, and concerns. And always through the medium of cinema.
We hope and wish you a happy New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.
November 28, 2024 - "THE GOOD TEACHERS"
On November 28, as part of National Teacher's Day, the feature film "The Good Teachers" was screened, a French production directed by Thomas Lilti, which was shown as part of the "Lanzarote Youth Cinema" cycle, an initiative of the Youth area of the Lanzarote Island Council.
An outstanding film that tells the personal stories of a group of teachers at a secondary school. Their challenges, insecurities, and dedication are tested daily in a moving tribute to the essential role of teachers in today's society.
After the screening, we had the pleasure of speaking with Noemí Arrocha, a graduate in Fine Arts and a teacher at the Pancho Lasso School of Art, and Miguel Ángel Hortelano, a graduate in History and a History teacher at the IES Haría.
During the discussion, certain shortcomings in the education system were detailed, and there was a general self-critique regarding the relationships among teachers, their camaraderie, the need for continuous professional development, and the bureaucratic obstacles they face. But above all, the discussion highlighted the love for the profession, the art of teaching and educating, and the determination of these vital pillars of our society.
We thank all the attendees for sharing such an enriching and necessary talk.
October 31, 2024 - "A SILENT VOICE"
On October 31st, as part of International Animation Day, the feature film "A Silent Voice" (Koe no Katachi), a 2016 Japanese animated film based on the manga of the same name by Yoshitoki Ōima, was screened. The film was produced by Kyoto Animation, directed by Naoko Yamada, and written by Reiko Yoshida. It was shown as part of the "Lanzarote Youth Cinema" series, an initiative of the Lanzarote Island Council's Youth Department.
The story revolves around Shôko Nishimiya, a deaf elementary school student who, upon transferring to a new school, begins to experience bullying from her new classmates. One of the main perpetrators is Ishida Shôya, who ultimately forces Nishimiya to transfer schools. Years later, Ishida seeks redemption for his past actions.
After the screening, we had the pleasure of speaking with Lucia Ballesteros Moreno , president and founder of the "Canary Islands Women Without Shadows Association", and Fausto López Salgado , Head of the Geography and History Department of IES Las Maretas, in Arrecife.
During the talk, we gained firsthand knowledge of the problem of bullying in schools in general, and in particular, the bullying suffered by dependent individuals and people with disabilities. Our guests discussed protocols for detecting and supporting victims both inside and outside the classroom, and noted that, while many cases are detected and resolved thanks to teachers, there is still a long way to go to prevent it from continuing. It was also confirmed that social media is a breeding ground that, in many cases, is the origin of such bullying, which later escalates into physical and even sexual assaults. The long-term consequences for victims are devastating.
We thank all the attendees for sharing such an enriching experience and helping to raise awareness of this serious problem. Together, we can contribute to seeing each other as equals despite our differences, whether of gender, race, or other circumstances.
September 26, 2024 - "QUESADA. THE TRUTH OF SILENCE"
On September 26th, as part of the International Day of Peace, the feature-length documentary "Quesada. The Truth of Silence," directed by Iván López and produced by Lamberto Guerra, was screened at the Deiland Multiplex in Playa Honda. The film was part of the "Lanzarote Youth Cinema" series, an initiative of the Lanzarote Island Council's Youth Department. It recounts the events of December 1977, when student Javier Quesada was murdered at the entrance to the University of La Laguna, Tenerife.
After the screening, we had the pleasure of meeting Lamberto Guerra, a well-known Canarian filmmaker, who decided to promote this project as a producer, along with his colleague and friend Iván López.
During the talk, Lamberto told us about the difficulties involved in making a documentary of this scale. It's no wonder, then, that the director needed 15 years of his life to shape it and give it a life of its own. His journalistic investigation is commendable, shedding light on an injustice that was never acknowledged or forgiven.
Despite the two-hour film, we had a long and engaging discussion, filled with surprisingly young faces who didn't miss a single detail of what was shared. We were fortunate to have two people among the attendees who were firsthand witnesses. Students who, like Javier, were in La Laguna on that fateful day, sharing their invaluable accounts and impressions with us.
We thank all the attendees for sharing such an enriching experience and helping to ensure that the figure of Javier Quesada and his unnecessary death are not forgotten.
August 29, 2024 - "MAMMAL"
On August 29th, as part of World Obstetrics and Pregnancy Day, the feature film "Mamífera," directed by Liliana Torres , was screened at the Atlántida cinemas in Arrecife. The film was part of the "Lanzarote Youth Cinema" series, an initiative of the Lanzarote Island Council's Youth Department. It tells the story of Lola and her dramatic decision in the face of an unexpected pregnancy.
After the screening, which was very well attended, we had the pleasure of having Coral Castro, Rocío Hernández and Víctor Romero, midwives from the Titerroy Health Center, as panelists for a very interesting talk.
During the meeting, some of the problems affecting the younger population of our island were discussed. Indeed, according to a study conducted by the midwives themselves, more than 40% of pregnancies in Lanzarote are "unwanted." This alarming figure is due to a lack of interest, education, and responsibility regarding family planning on the part of couples, and it requires our full attention.
The presence of numerous healthcare staff in the room, combined with the experience of some of the attending couples, generated an interesting perspective on this serious problem and its possible solutions, highlighting the negative consequences it causes deep within our social fabric.
On this occasion, and as so often happens in cinema, the attendees saw themselves reflected in Lola's story, turning her experiences into a crystal-clear reflection of today's society.
August 12, 2024 - "The Red Sky"
On August 12th, as part of Youth Day celebrations, the feature film "The Red Sky," directed by Christian Petzold, was screened at the Atlántida cinemas in Arrecife. The screening was part of the "Lanzarote Youth Cinema" series, an initiative of the Lanzarote Island Council's Youth Department. This unforgettable story of love, friendship, and insecurities tells the tale of a group of young people searching for their place in the world.
After the screening, we had the honor of welcoming two outstanding young talents from Lanzarote: Benji Chovanec and Miguel Cejudo. Benji, 23, is a photographer and filmmaker who studied at the Pancho Lasso School of Art and has worked as an assistant to renowned figures in the wedding industry, such as Pablo Beglez and Quentin Celestino. Miguel Cejudo, also 23, recently graduated from the Canary Islands Higher Conservatory of Music, specializing in trumpet and playing guitar as a second instrument. He is also the guitarist and vocalist for the band Distortion.
During the talk, the challenges, difficulties, and insecurities that young artists face when pursuing their projects—whether novels, audiovisual creations, or rock music—were explored. It was undoubtedly an enriching experience that allowed attendees to reflect on the importance of support and perseverance in artistic development.
25 JULY 2024 - "UNCOVERED"
Last Thursday, July 25th, at 7:00 PM, the film "UNCOVERED," directed by Maria Schrader, was screened at the Atlántida Cinemas in Arrecife, as part of the "Lanzarote Youth Cinema" series. This initiative is promoted by the Youth Department of the Lanzarote Island Council.
One of the core values that this film conveys is solidarity. "Exposed" underscores the need to support and believe victims, creating a safe space where they can share their experiences without fear of judgment. The film also highlights the crucial role the community plays in combating the culture of silence that has allowed abuse and harassment to flourish in various sectors.
This film also encourages young people to reflect on the responsibility of the media and society in general to address issues of gender-based violence. At a time when discussions about equality and respect have become more relevant than ever, the film provides a powerful reminder that the truth must be revealed, regardless of the consequences.
About the Lanzarote Youth Film Series:
The Lanzarote Youth Film Series is an initiative of the Lanzarote Island Council that aims to connect young people with film culture, promoting critical thinking and debate on relevant issues. It takes place on the last Thursday of each month.
June 27, 2024 - "The Teacher Who Promised the Sea"
The Lanzarote Island Council, through its Youth Department, organized the third session of the Lanzarote Youth Film Series on June 27th. Room 4 of the Atlántida cinemas in Arrecife was filled with viewers interested in the screening of the film "The Teacher Who Promised the Sea," directed by Patricia Font.
The film tells the moving story of Ariadna (played by Laia Costa), who decides to help her grandfather search for the remains of her father, who disappeared during the Spanish Civil War. This search takes her to Burgos, where she learns the inspiring story of Antoni Benaiges (played by Enric Auquer), a young teacher from Tarragona who, with an innovative teaching method, made a promise to his students: to take them to see the sea.
Following the screening, an enriching discussion and debate took place regarding the Historical Memory Law and its implementation. The discussion featured two prominent experts: María Antonia (Nona) Perera Betancor, archaeologist and PhD in Prehistory from the University of La Laguna, who served for many years as Director General of Cultural Heritage for the Lanzarote Island Council, and Francisco Hernández Delgado, historian, researcher, and official chronicler of Teguise. Both panelists shared their knowledge and experiences, providing a profound and nuanced perspective on the topic.
The event was a resounding success, with a large audience who showed great interest and engagement during the debate. This session underscored the importance of historical memory and the role of film as a tool to foster dialogue and reflection on issues crucial to our society.
About the Lanzarote Youth Film Series:
The Lanzarote Youth Film Series is an initiative of the Lanzarote Island Council that aims to connect young people with film culture, promoting critical thinking and debate on relevant issues. It takes place on the last Thursday of each month.
May 30, 2024 - "The Leap"
"EL SALTO" Directed by Benito Zambrado, sells out on Canary Islands Day.
Lanzarote Youth Cinema, organized by the Youth Department of the Lanzarote Island Council.
The film, directed by Benito Zambrano, who recently visited the island as a member of the jury for the Lanzarote International Film Festival, premiered last April in Spanish theaters to great critical acclaim. It tells the story of Ibrahim, a Malian immigrant living in Madrid and working as a bricklayer. After being detained and deported, his only wish is to return to Spain to reunite with his family. His journey takes him to Mount Gurugú, an immigrant camp on the border between Africa and Europe, where he meets Aminata, a young woman determined to jump the fence separating the two continents.
After the moving screening, we had the honor of having Said Khrabcha, head of the Montaña Mina reception center and representative of ACCEM CANARIAS in Lanzarote, on stage.
Immigration, a topic of great interest and sensitivity, was addressed in a discussion following the film. Said was accompanied by a group of people who saw their own experiences reflected on the big screen. Many attendees expressed interest in both ACCEM's work and the initiative to help. Among the audience were representatives from other organizations, such as the Red Cross, who informed attendees about the various ways to collaborate and provide assistance.
In short, it was an emotional evening that will remain in the memory of many attendees.
We look forward to seeing you again in Room 4 of the Atlántida Cinemas next Thursday, July 25, 2024, to enjoy another exciting session of Lanzarote Youth Cinema together!
April 25, 2024 - "CAMPEONEX"
The emotional screening of "CAMPEONEX" directed by Javier Fesser delights the audience at the Lanzarote Youth Cinema activity, organized by the Youth Department of the Lanzarote Island Council.
The recent screening of the film "CAMPEONEX" as part of the Lanzarote Youth Cinema program, organized by the Cabildo's Youth Department, at the Atlántida Cinemas, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Javier Fesser, was a resounding success that captivated the audience with its moving story and masterful performances. On this evening filled with emotion and reflection, the event featured the distinguished presence of Stefania Bolsi, a psychology graduate with over 15 years of experience working with people with intellectual disabilities and their families at the ADISLAN Association. Bolsi enriched the experience by sharing her profound knowledge of the film's themes, thus strengthening the commitment to inclusion and equality. The audience also had the privilege of hearing the inspiring testimony of Lionel Morales, a Paralympic triathlete from Lanzarote, who shared his personal stories of overcoming adversity and the challenges he faced on his path to athletic excellence.
Morales highlighted the importance of communication and natural treatment in the inclusion of people with disabilities, inviting everyone to reflect on empathy and respect.
The event was enthusiastically attended by ADISLAN students, and all tickets sold out quickly, demonstrating the interest in and relevance of topics such as inclusion and overcoming adversity in our society. "CAMPEONEX" is not just a film; it is a powerful testament to the human spirit's ability to triumph over adversity and achieve greatness. Through the big screen, this film reminds us of the importance of hope, perseverance, and social awareness.
We look forward to seeing you again in Room 4 of the Atlántida Cinemas on Thursday, May 30, 2024 to enjoy another exciting session of Cine Juventud Lanzarote together!
