Director Rodrigo Sorogoyen and actors Javier Bardem and Victoria Luengo presented the film “El ser querido” (The Beloved) at the Cannes Film Festival on Saturday [1, 2].

The premiere marks a significant moment for Spanish cinema as the film competes for the festival's highest honor, the Palme d'Or [1, 3]. The project is positioned as a major work by its creators and is part of a broader push to highlight Spanish filmmaking on the global stage [1, 3].

The screening took place at the Grand Théâtre Lumière during a gala session [2, 4]. Following the conclusion of the film, the audience provided a standing ovation that lasted seven minutes [5].

Sorogoyen, Bardem, and Luengo appeared together for the presentation, which was attended by industry professionals and critics [1, 2]. The film's reception at Cannes serves as the primary launchpad for its international distribution strategy.

According to production details, the movie will open in French cinemas prior to its domestic debut [1]. The theatrical release date for the film in Spain is scheduled for Aug. 26, 2026 [1].

“The audience provided a standing ovation that lasted seven minutes.”

The strong reception of 'The Beloved' at Cannes suggests the film is a top contender for the Palme d'Or, which could significantly increase its commercial viability and prestige ahead of its August release in Spain. The decision to premiere in France before Spain reflects a strategic move to leverage the international momentum generated by the festival's critical acclaim.