Hollywood stars coming to Mallorca as international festival returns to Palma

Mallorca film lovers will have the chance to catch international premieres, discover home-grown filmmaking talent and see award-winning stars as the Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival returns for eight days of cinema this autumn.

The 15th edition of the festival runs from October 28 to November 4, bringing more than 140 films and documentaries from around 50 countries to venues across Palma and beyond. From independent productions and thought-provoking documentaries to screenings featuring internationally recognised talent, the programme offers residents an opportunity to experience world cinema without leaving the island.

Hollywood talent arrives in Palma

Among the headline guests is German actress Diane Kruger, known for films including Troy and Inglourious Basterds. She will receive the Evolution ICON Award during the festival.

The line-up also includes filmmaker Edward Berger, whose credits include All Quiet on the Western Front and Conclave, and German actress Iris Berben. Berger will receive the Evolution Vision Award, while cinematographer Matthew Libatique will be recognised for his contribution to film.

The festival opens on October 28 at Palma’s Palau de Congressos with Club Kid, directed by Jordan Firstman, before closing on November 4 at Teatre Principal with The End of It, starring Rebecca Hall.

How residents can get involved

Film fans do not need to work in the industry to take part. Individual film tickets cost €8, making it possible to choose a screening rather than commit to the entire programme. Tickets can be purchased online or through the festival’s ticket arrangements at Cineciutat.

The main screening venues include independent cinema Cineciutat and Sala Rívoli Aficine, while the opening and closing galas offer opportunities to experience the festival’s more glamorous side.

For those keen to see the festival in action, the opening gala on October 28 features a red-carpet photocall, awards presentations and the screening of Club Kid. Public tickets are listed at €29. The closing gala and awards ceremony on November 4 is also open to the public, with tickets listed at €19.

Residents interested in how films are made can also explore the Cinematography Focus programme, running from October 28 to 30, with screenings, discussions and masterclasses examining the craft of visual storytelling. A dedicated festival pass is available for €49.

Mallorca’s own filmmakers take centre stage

The event is not just about international names. Its Made in Baleares section will showcase 44 local audiovisual projects, highlighting the creativity and talent of filmmakers from the Balearic Islands.

Mallorcan costume designer and visual artist Pau Aulí will receive the Evolution New Talent Award, adding a home-grown success story to this year’s programme.

The festival also aims to strengthen Mallorca’s reputation as a filming destination, connecting international professionals with local talent and locations.

For residents, that means the event offers more than a week of cinema: it is a chance to support the island’s creative community, discover films that may not reach mainstream cinemas and see Mallorca welcome some of the international film industry’s most exciting voices.