The Goya Awards (Los Premios Goya) are Spain’s top film awards, given out every year by the Spanish Academy of Cinematic Arts and Sciences. They’re often called the Spanish Oscars, honoring the best in acting, directing, cinematography, and more.

A Tradition Since 1987

The Goya Awards began in 1987 and have become a huge event in Spanish cinema. They were usually held in Madrid, but since 2019, different cities have hosted the ceremony. This year, the 2025 Goya Awards ceremony takes place in Granada, a city famous for its history and culture.

The Goya Awards 2025 Ceremony: Key Details

The 39th Goya Awards will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025. The red carpet starts at 7:00 PM, and the main ceremony kicks off, in true Spanish style, at 10:00 PM. You can watch it live on La 1, and many Spanish news sites will also provide live coverage online.

Top Contenders

This year’s most-nominated films include:

• El 47 – 14 nominations
• La infiltrada – 13 nominations
• La habitación de al lado – 10 nominations
• La virgen roja – 9 nominations

These movies cover a mix of genres, from thrillers to historical dramas, showing the variety in Spanish cinema.

Hosts and Special Guests

This year’s hosts are Maribel Verdú and Leonor Watling, both well-known in Spanish film. Verdú has been in the industry for over 40 years, starring in Pan’s Labyrinth, Y Tu Mamá También, and Belle Époque. Watling is both an actress and a singer, known for movies like My Life Without Me and The Hour of the Brave.

Many famous actors and directors will be there, including Elena Anaya, Miguel Ángel Silvestre, Natalia de Molina, and J.A. Bayona. They’ll be presenting awards and celebrating the best of Spanish films.

Musical Performances

The event will also have live music, with performances by Alejandro Sanz, Amaral, Rigoberta Bandini, and Zahara. Granada’s own artists, including Miguel Ríos, Dellafuente, and Lola Índigo, will also take the stage. There will be orchestral performances from the University of Granada Orchestra and the Manuel de Falla Choir.

Special Recognition Awards

This year’s Goya International Award goes to Richard Gere, honoring his impact on cinema. The Hollywood star, known for Pretty Woman, Chicago, and American Gigolo, is being recognized for his acting career and social activism. Past winners include Cate Blanchett and Sigourney Weaver.

Will You Be Watching?

The Goya Awards aren’t just about the red carpet and big speeches, they celebrate Spain’s incredible filmmaking talent. Now that you know the key players and what to expect, will you be tuning in to this year’s show?

Main image: Shutterstock/Denis Makarenko