Official Competition
Films in the Official Competition demonstrate some of the finest filmmaking this year from around the world. Spanning a variety of genres, these films advance themes of worldwide resonance, like friendship, coming of age in times of political turmoil, and the challenges inherent to romantic and familial relationships.
The Official Competition jury, comprised of filmmakers, journalists, and industry professionals, selects the winning film, which will be announced at the Golden Space Needle Awards May 17 and awarded a cash prize of $5,000.
Burn
Japan | 2026 | 103 min. | Makoto Nagahisa
When runaway teen Ju-Ju is embraced by a tribe of misfit youths in Kabukicho, she finds belonging for the first time — until betrayal and despair twist her haven into a prison. From the director of We Are Little Zombies.
The Friend’s House is Here
Iran | 2026 | 95 min. | Hossein Keshavarz, Maryam Ataei
Pari and Hanna are best friends and active participants in Tehran’s vibrant underground arts scene. But the risk of running afoul of the government is omnipresent, forcing difficult decisions.
Lady
United Kingdom | 2025 | 95 min. | Samuel Abrahams
In this absurdly hilarious mockumentary, a young filmmaker agrees to film the behind-the-scenes vanity project of the obnoxiously entitled Lady Isabella, only for something unseen and quite strange to happen.
Mārama
New Zealand | 2025 | 83 min. | Taratoa Stappard (Ngāti Toa, Ngāti Raukawa me Ngāti Tūwharetoa)
Mārama, Taratoa Stappard’s feature debut, is an anti-colonial horror story confronting oppression while honoring the strength and resilience of Māori women.
Silent Friend
Germany | 2025 | 146 min. | Ildikó Enyedi
Award-winning director Ildiko Enyedi delivers another mesmerizing visual tale, set across three time periods at a historic German university, united by a gingko tree.
Sundays
Spain | 2025 | 117 min. | Alauda Ruiz de Azúa
At 17, Ainara faces a life-changing choice: after high school, she considers becoming a nun. Her decision unsettles her family, especially her aunt, who fears it means losing freedom. This Goya Award standout explores the fragile balance between faith and skepticism.