Anthony Dod Mantle ASC BSC DFF receives Cinematography Evolution Award at EMIFF

The Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival (EMIFF) kicked off its 13th edition tonight with an emotional opening gala at the Teatre Principal of Palma. 

The tragic events in Valencia cast a somber note on the ceremony, with public officials noteably absent, due to Spain’s declaration of a three-day national mourning period. Festival director and founder Sandra Lipski began her Opening Night speech by extending her condolences to the flood victims’ families.  

Lipski went on to highlight EMIFF’s achievements over the past 13 years: “We have grown to become an international brand that offers extraordinary exposure for both local and international talent,” she emphasised, before the festival’s annual Honoree prize-giving. 

Celebrated cinematographer Anthony Dod Mantle received the Cinematography Icon Award from filmmaker Ruben Östlund. Östlund explained, “What makes his work outstanding is that curiosity and passion for experimentation meet profound knowledge,” adding that “Dod Mantle has built a unique career that has inspired an entire generation of filmmakers.”  

The award recognizes the director’s innovative work, as well as his artistic vision and technical expertise. Upon accepting the honor, Dod Mantle, an Oscar and BAFTA winner for Slumdog Millionaire, described Mallorca as “a paradise” and expressed his gratitude, commending EMIFF’s work: “It’s remarkable to bring together people from so many nationalities in a festival of this caliber.” 

This 13th edition of the festival came with a nod to the superstition surrounding the number, as Sandra Lipski joked, “Despite a few complications this year, I remind myself of the incredible lineup we have prepared, with over 140 films from filmmakers from around the world, who wanted to showcase their work in Mallorca.” 

A festival highlight will be the World Premiere of award-winning director/writer Rafa Cortés’ Amanece en Samaná on November 2nd, in the presence of Cortés and his leading cast – Luis Tosar, Luis Zahera, Luisa Mayol and Barbara Santa Cruz. EMIFF will also host the Spanish Premiere of British filmmaker Thomas Napper’s Widow Clicquot, which will close the festival on November 5th. 

On Opening Night the festival also honored Annette Bening with the Evolution Icon Award – Bening was unexpectedly and unfortunately unable to travel to Mallorca, but a video tribute highlighting her career was played, receiving heartfelt applause from the audience. Lipski recorded the moment on her phone to share it personally with the Hollywood star. 

The festival also acknowledged the support from institutions like the Fundació Mallorca Turisme, as well as sponsors and partners, without whom this edition would not have been possible. Once again, Grupo Portixol, Palma Pictures, and Engel & Völkers are backing the festival, joined by Grupo Meliá, Rialto Living, Occhio, Bastidas Architecture, ShotDeck, ARRI, Leitz, OK Mobility, CEF Escuela de Artes Audiovisuales, and Estrella Damm, which presents the “Made in Baleares” program.