The Amsterdam Spanish Film Festival (ASFF) is set to open its latest edition with the powerful premiere of Soy Nevenka on April 11th at 20:30 at Theatre Tuschinski. The event will be graced by the film’s director, Icíar Bollaín, as a special guest.
This year, ASFF introduces the Honorary Gieling Award, with Icíar Bollaín as its first-ever recipient. Named after Dutch filmmaker Ramón Gieling, the award recognizes individuals who have made a lasting impact on Spanish cinema. ASFF founder and director Virginia Pablos describes the award as inspired by the Goya de Honor, the prestigious recognition granted by the Spanish Academy of Cinema, reinforcing ASFF’s mission as a Spanish film festival made in the Netherlands.
The Honorary Gieling Award is set to become an annual tradition, celebrating filmmakers who challenge, inspire, and transform cinema. Icíar Bollaín, renowned for her socially engaged storytelling, is the perfect recipient for this inaugural honor. The award will be personally presented by Ramón Gieling, marking a historic moment for the festival.
Soy Nevenka: A Story of Courage
Soy Nevenka tells the harrowing true story of Nevenka Fernández, the first woman in Spain to take legal action against a politician for sexual harassment, Ponferrada’s mayor, Ismael Álvarez. Though she won the case, the verdict was minimal, and the backlash forced Nevenka to leave Spain. Álvarez, a popular figure, received widespread support, while Nevenka faced societal judgment and ostracization.
The film delves beyond the trial, exposing the long-term psychological effects of harassment. It portrays how systematic abuse erodes a victim’s identity, revealing the emotional violence behind workplace harassment. Through Soy Nevenka, Icíar Bollaín brings attention to Nevenka’s resilience and the price she paid for standing up to power.
A Night of Cinema
Program
Venue: Pathé Tuschinski, Amsterdam
Date: April 11th
20:30 – Doors open with Spanish drinks and tapas
- 21:00 – Honorary Gieling Award Gala
- 21:15 – Soy Nevenka screening followed by a Q and A with Icíar Bollaín
A Must-See Film of Global Relevance
Inspired by real events, Soy Nevenka positions its protagonist as a pioneer of the MeToo movement in Spain, highlighting the ongoing fight against silence and impunity.
Join us for this special gala screening and discussion.
Tickets Available Now
Buy tickets at the ASFF official website.
