FICS 2025

18TH EDITION ATTRACTED 2,625 ATTENDEES

The 18th edition of the Santarém International Film Festival (FICS), held from 21 to 26 May 2025, solidified its status as a cultural reference event in Portugal. Under the central theme “50 Years of the Agrarian Reform”, the festival drew 2,625 attendees, showcased 40 films from 22 countries, and highlighted a diverse programme featuring exhibitions, workshops, debates, and educational initiatives.

Exhibition “Memória da Reforma Agrária”

A standout moment was the “Memória da Reforma Agrária” exhibition, curated by Ephemera – Arquivo e Biblioteca de José Pacheco Pereira. The exhibition brought together posters, photographs, pamphlets, and historical testimonies depicting struggles for justice and equality in rural areas half a century ago. Visitors were invited to immerse themselves in the social and political context of post-25 April, with particular emphasis on the impact of the Agrarian Reform in the Alentejo and Ribatejo regions.

Animation Workshop “A Natureza em Movimento” – Bridging Ecology and Creativity

In collaboration with MONSTRA – Festival de Animação de Lisboa, FICS launched the workshop “A Natureza em Movimento” led by Fernando Galrito and Tiago Galrito. Held at the Casa do Brasil, the activity engaged young people aged 10+ in creating short films using natural elements, fostering the intersection of cinema, environmental education, and artistic expression.

Roundtable “50 Years of the Agrarian Reform” – Organised in partnership with the 50th Anniversary Committee of the 25th of April

This debate, preceded by screenings of historical documentaries, gathered historians, filmmakers, and researchers to discuss the legacy of the Agrarian Reform and contemporary rural challenges. Participants included Maria Inácia Rezola, José Pacheco Pereira, Dulce Freire, and José Filipe Costa. The event reinforced cinema’s role as a tool for preserving collective memory and fostering critical citizenship.

Educational Project “Sementes e Rebentos”

The “Sementes e Rebentos” initiative brought schools into contact with cinema and educational activities (Santarém, Almeirim, Alpiarça, and Rio Maior). Designed to cultivate new audiences and raise awareness among children and young people about themes such as sustainability, rurality, and territorial connection, the project reaffirmed FICS as a festival committed to inclusion and education.

FICS 2025 Winners: National and International Talent Recognised

The winners of the 18th edition were:

National Competition – Golden Cluster Award : PERCEBES , by Alexandra Ramires and Laura Gonçalves.

International Competition – Golden Cluster Award : KOKI, CIAO , by Quenton Miller.

Special Jury Prize – National Agriculture Fair : BLUEBERRY DREAMS , by Elene Mikaberidze.

Honourable Mention : QUANDO A TERRA FOGE , by Frederico Lobo.

Audience Award : O DIABO DO ENTRUDO , by Diogo Varela Silva.

FICS 2025 – A Bridge Between Past and Future

FICS established itself as a platform for critical reflection, collective memory, and cultural education. By fostering intergenerational dialogue and celebrating Ribatejo’s heritage, the festival reinforced its mission to promote independent cinema and urgent social themes. The 2026 edition promises fresh surprises, maintaining its commitment to land and inclusion.