The International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESCI) and the Sitges – International Fantastic Film Festival of Catalonia are pleased to announce the establishment of a FIPRESCI jury beginning with the 2026 edition of the festival.
Founded in 1968, Sitges is widely regarded as the world’s leading festival dedicated to fantastic, horror, and science-fiction cinema. For nearly six decades, it has served as a premier platform for genre filmmaking, championing both established masters and emerging talents while introducing audiences to some of the most innovative and influential works in contemporary cinema. The festival’s unique ability to bridge artistic ambition and popular appeal has made it a key destination for filmmakers, critics, industry professionals, and audiences from around the globe.
Sitges’ standing within the international film community is reflected in its recognition by numerous prestigious organizations and institutions, including its status as an Academy Award®-qualifying festival. Its influence extends far beyond the genre sphere, making it one of the most respected and internationally visible cultural events dedicated to cinema. Given this position within the global festival landscape, the establishment of a FIPRESCI jury at Sitges is both a natural and timely development.
The jury will consist of three members: one Spanish critic and two international critics selected from FIPRESCI’s worldwide membership.
Founded in 1925, FIPRESCI is a global network of professional film critics and film journalists from more than 80 countries. Through its international juries, editorial activities, and educational initiatives, the federation promotes film culture, supports critical discourse, and fosters communication across political, cultural, and geographical boundaries.
This new collaboration brings together two institutions that share a longstanding commitment to celebrating cinematic excellence and encouraging meaningful dialogue around the art of film.
Ángel Sala, director of Sitges, commented:
“The Sitges IFFFC’s inclusion in the FIPRESCI network marks the Festival’s consolidation in the international arena, and specifically within the field of journalism and film criticism, which we consider to be key players in the current landscape of film festivals. This is especially relevant for a Festival specializing in fantastic genre cinema like Sitges, where coordination with discussion and opinion forums is essential to position genre within a global, dynamic, and fertile context.”
Ahmed Shawky, President of FIPRESCI, highlighted federation’s vision:
“No serious film critic would deny the importance of fantastic and horror cinema, both historically and in the present day. These genres have continually pushed the boundaries of cinematic language, reflected social anxieties, and inspired generations of filmmakers. They occupy a unique place where artistic innovation meets popular appeal, bringing together film critics and broad audiences alike. We are delighted to contribute the perspective of international film criticism to one of the world’s leading festivals dedicated to genre cinema.”
The FIPRESCI jury will evaluate films in the Official Fantastic Competition and present the FIPRESCI Prize at the conclusion of the festival.
Further details regarding the jury composition and the competition section will be announced in due course.
©FIPRESCI 2026