South International Series Festival Announces Award Winners
Table of Contents
- 1. South International Series Festival Announces Award Winners
- 2. “what It Feels Like for a Girl” Dominates Fiction Awards
- 3. “Una historia muy heavy” Takes Non-fiction Top Prize
- 4. Audience and Industry Recognition
- 5. A Festival Rooted in Community and Global Vision
- 6. The Rise of Spanish Television
- 7. Frequently Asked Questions about the South International Series Festival
- 8. How can the insights from the “What It Feels Like for a Girl” panel at South Series inform the advancement of more effective mentorship programs for aspiring female producers?
- 9. Girls Empowerment Triumphs at CádizS South Series festival with ‘What It Feels Like for a Girl’
- 10. The Impact of ‘What It feels Like for a Girl’ at South Series
- 11. key Themes Explored During the Panel
- 12. The Rise of Female-Focused Music Festivals & Initiatives
- 13. Benefits of Empowering Women in Music
- 14. Practical Tips for Aspiring Female musicians
- 15. Case Study: The Impact of PRS Foundation’s ‘Power Up’ Initiative
- 16. Looking Ahead: Sustaining Momentum for Girls Empowerment
Cádiz, Spain – The 3rd edition of the South International series Festival concluded on Wednesday, September 18th, with two series taking top honors: “What It Feels Like for a Girl” was recognized as the best fiction series, while “Una historia muy heavy” claimed the award for best non-fiction series.The event showcased a diverse range of productions and underscored the increasing prominence of Spanish storytelling on the global stage.
The festival, which drew nearly 13,000 attendees – including 700 industry professionals and 310 journalists – saw screenings nearly sold out and industry sessions operating at 90% capacity, demonstrating a thriving interest in international series.The event’s success is particularly notable given the industry’s ongoing evolution in the streaming era, with a projected 1.65 billion SVOD subscribers worldwide by 2029.
“what It Feels Like for a Girl” Dominates Fiction Awards
“What It Feels Like for a Girl,” a creation of Paris Lees and produced by Hera Pictures in collaboration with ITV Studios for BBC Three/iPlayer, secured a total of three accolades: best fiction series, best ensemble cast, and the inaugural Ciudad de Cádiz Award. This last award acknowledged the show’s powerful emotional resonance with the city’s values and commitment to social justice.
Carmen Serrano,president of the Fiction Jury and head of Europa Creative Desk Andalusia,lauded the series as a “courageous portrait” of challenging realities,praising its authentic energy and ability to evoke a wide spectrum of emotions. The series’ success reflects a wider trend toward more nuanced and character-driven narratives in television.
“Una historia muy heavy” Takes Non-fiction Top Prize
In the non-fiction category, “Una historia muy heavy,” an RTVE play original produced with Magnetika Films, earned the title of best non-fiction series. Judges recognized its compelling narrative structure, insightful historical context, and thorough investigative approach. This win highlights South’s growing role as a platform for launching impactful spanish documentaries with international potential through RTVE Sales.
“la Húngara. Toma que toma,” a production of LyO Media for Mediaset Infinity with Megamedia’s executive production, received a special jury award, and Norway’s “The Agent. The Life and Lies of My Father” (NRK),already recognized at Canneseries,received a special mention for its innovative narrative style.
Audience and Industry Recognition
Audience awards were presented to “Ella, Maldita Alma” in fiction and “la Húngara. Toma Que Toma” in non-fiction, illustrating strong public engagement with the showcased content. Additional honors were given to “Sense Filtres” (3CAT) for best screenplay in fiction, alongside the South boost’s main prize awarded to “Correos y Telégrafos” by Jacobo Palomo, David G. Marcelo and Rocío Martín, distinguished for its sensitive portrayal of rural life and intergenerational connections. The series “El Cantante”, directed by Jorge Naranjo also received a special mention.
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Best fiction Series | “What It Feels Like for a Girl” |
| Best Non-Fiction Series | “Una historia muy heavy” |
| Best Screenplay (Fiction) | “Sense Filtres” |
| South Boost Main Prize | “Correos y telégrafos” |
A Festival Rooted in Community and Global Vision
festival director Carles Montiel emphasized the importance of community involvement in the success of South, noting the festival’s growing international reach.The event is backed by Womack Group and supported by the City of Cádiz, the provincial Council of Cádiz, and the Regional Government of Andalusia, with Mediterráneo Mediaset España Group serving as the media sponsor.
Did you know? The South International series Festival has quickly become a pivotal event for the Spanish television industry, attracting a growing number of international buyers and distributors.
Pro Tip: For aspiring filmmakers, festivals like South offer valuable networking opportunities and a platform to showcase their work to a wider audience.
what role do you think international festivals play in the global distribution of television content? And how important is local cultural context in creating universally appealing stories?
The Rise of Spanish Television
The success of the South International Series Festival mirrors a broader trend: the increasing global recognition of Spanish television productions. Series like “Money Heist” (“la Casa de papel”) and “Elite,” both available on Netflix, have captivated audiences worldwide, demonstrating the demand for diverse and compelling storytelling. This success has led to increased investment in the Spanish television industry and a surge in co-productions with international partners. The increase in financing and collaborative projects is expected to further enhance the quality and reach of Spanish series in the coming years.
Frequently Asked Questions about the South International Series Festival
- What is the South International Series Festival? It’s an annual event in Cádiz, Spain, celebrating both Spanish and international television series.
- What genres of series are featured at the festival? The festival showcases a variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and documentaries.
- Who attends the South International Series Festival? The festival attracts industry professionals, journalists, and general audiences.
- What is the meaning of the Ciudad de Cádiz Award? This award recognizes a series that demonstrates a strong emotional connection with the city and its values.
- Is the festival open to international submissions? Yes, the festival accepts submissions from series creators worldwide.
- How does the festival contribute to the Spanish television industry? It serves as a crucial platform for showcasing Spanish productions and attracting international investment.
- What is the future outlook for the South International Series Festival? With growing attendance and international recognition, the festival is poised to become a major player in the global television landscape.
Share your thoughts on the award winners and the future of Spanish television in the comments below!
How can the insights from the “What It Feels Like for a Girl” panel at South Series inform the advancement of more effective mentorship programs for aspiring female producers?
Girls Empowerment Triumphs at CádizS South Series festival with ‘What It Feels Like for a Girl’
The Impact of ‘What It feels Like for a Girl’ at South Series
The South Series festival in Cádiz, Spain, recently witnessed a powerful moment of girls empowerment with the resounding success of the panel discussion, “What It Feels Like for a Girl.” This event, held on September 17th, 2025, wasn’t just another festival talk; it was a catalyst for conversation, a platform for diverse voices, and a testament to the growing movement advocating for female empowerment in the music industry and beyond. The festival, known for its commitment to showcasing emerging talent and fostering a vibrant cultural scene, provided the perfect backdrop for this crucial dialog.
key Themes Explored During the Panel
The panel, featuring a diverse group of female musicians, producers, and industry professionals, tackled a range of critical issues. discussions centered around:
* Gender Bias in Music Production: Examining the systemic challenges women face in accessing studio time, funding, and recognition for their production work. The conversation highlighted the need for more female producers and engineers.
* Navigating the Male-Dominated Music Industry: panelists shared personal experiences of overcoming obstacles, challenging stereotypes, and building accomplished careers in a traditionally male-dominated field. this included discussions on music industry sexism and strategies for resilience.
* The Importance of Female Role Models: The discussion emphasized the vital role of visible female artists and industry leaders in inspiring the next generation of women in music. Mentorship programs and initiatives were also highlighted.
* Mental Health and Wellbeing for Women in the Arts: Acknowledging the unique pressures faced by women in creative fields, the panel addressed the importance of prioritizing mental health and seeking support. Resources for artist wellbeing were shared.
* Intersectionality and Depiction: The panel actively addressed the importance of inclusivity, recognizing that experiences vary based on race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and other factors.Diverse representation in music was a central theme.
The Rise of Female-Focused Music Festivals & Initiatives
The success of “What It Feels Like for a Girl” at South Series reflects a broader trend: the increasing prominence of festivals and initiatives dedicated to supporting women in music.
* Key Festivals: Events like She Shreds, GIRLS ROCK Camp, and others are creating safe and empowering spaces for female musicians to connect, collaborate, and showcase their talent.
* Industry Organizations: Organizations like She Is The music are actively working to increase the representation of women in all aspects of the music industry.
* Record Label Initiatives: Some record labels are implementing programs to actively scout and support emerging female artists.
* Funding Opportunities: Grants and funding specifically targeted towards women in music are becoming more accessible, providing crucial financial support for creative projects.
Benefits of Empowering Women in Music
The benefits of fostering gender equality in music extend far beyond individual success stories.
* increased Creativity & Innovation: Diverse perspectives lead to more innovative and compelling music.
* Broader Audience Appeal: Representation matters. A more diverse music industry attracts a wider audience.
* Economic Growth: Supporting women in music contributes to a more vibrant and lasting music economy.
* Positive Social Impact: Empowering women in music sends a powerful message of equality and inspires positive change.
* Improved Mental Health Outcomes: Creating supportive environments for female artists can improve their overall wellbeing.
Practical Tips for Aspiring Female musicians
For women looking to break into the music industry, here are some actionable steps:
- Build a Strong Network: Connect with other musicians, producers, and industry professionals. Attend workshops, conferences, and networking events.
- Develop Your Skills: Invest in your musical education and hone your craft. Consider taking courses in music production, songwriting, or performance.
- seek Mentorship: find a mentor who can provide guidance and support.
- Promote your Work: Utilize social media, streaming platforms, and other online tools to showcase your music.Music marketing is crucial.
- Don’t Be Afraid to advocate for yourself: Know your worth and confidently negotiate for fair compensation and opportunities.
- Find Your Community: Connect with other women in music for support and collaboration.
Case Study: The Impact of PRS Foundation’s ‘Power Up’ Initiative
The PRS Foundation’s ‘Power Up’ initiative, a UK-based program supporting women music creators, provides a compelling case study. Since its launch, Power Up has provided funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities to hundreds of female artists, resulting in increased visibility, record deals, and critical acclaim. This demonstrates the tangible impact of targeted support programs for women in the music industry. The initiative’s success highlights the importance of addressing systemic barriers and providing resources to help women thrive.
Looking Ahead: Sustaining Momentum for Girls Empowerment
the energy generated at South Series’ “What It Feels Like for a Girl” panel is a positive sign, but sustained effort is crucial. Continued
