Steve Buscemi Comes to Palma: Lifetime Achievement Award at the Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival

A US Character Actor in Palma's Spotlight

It feels a bit surreal to sip an espresso on Passeig Mallorca in Palma while wondering if the guy from New York will soon walk the red carpet. That is exactly what will happen: The Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival (EMIFF) will award the character actor Steve Buscemi the Evolution Icon Award for his lifetime achievement this October.

When and where

The award ceremony is planned for October 21 and will take place during the opening gala at the Palau de Congressos. For those wanting a taste of festival flair: in the evenings you often spot actors and film lovers strolling from the Hotel Portitxol to the Teatre Principal — a typical Palma evening, a bit cool, but with the bustling chatter of the market.

More than just a prize

Buscemi is known to many from films such as the classics; over decades he has chosen roles that reveal quirks and flaws. That he will come personally to Mallorca is a stroke of luck for a festival that already shows around 130 films. The program ranges from Spanish classics to new works — including Buscemi's current film Psycho Therapy, which will be shown toward the end of October as part of the festival.

Guests and focal points

Besides Buscemi, a few other names stand out: Swedish-Spanish actress Ingrid García Jonsson will receive an emerging talent award; cinematographer Phedon Papamichael will present a special screening, and director Julio Medem is represented with one of his earlier works. Festival founder Sandra Lipski spoke during the program presentation at the Portitxol Hotel of a strong lineup — which, as overheard by coffee drinkers at the harbor, was also said with a touch of pride.

Made in Baleares

A dedicated section, Made in Baleares, brings roughly fifty local productions to the screen. For many up-and-coming filmmakers, it's a chance for their work to be seen by locals and visitors. You can sense: The festival wants not only to bring stars to Palma but also to stimulate the local film life.

As people wander through Palma these days, they see more film posters, hear conversations about favorite directors, and notice small discussions in Spanish, Catalan, and English. A festival is not just a program — it's this mix of excitement, small encounters, and the sense that the island can be a piece of the film world for a few days.