Alauda Ruiz de Azúa’s ‘Los Domingos’ Dominates 2026 Goya Awards

Barcelona hosted the 2026 Goya Awards, where Alauda Ruiz de Azúa’s film Los Domingos emerged as the night’s biggest winner, securing five awards including Best Film and Best Director. The film’s success underscores a growing recognition of Ruiz de Azúa’s voice in European cinema.

Key Wins for ‘Los Domingos’

Los Domingos received a total of five Goya Awards:

• Best Film
• Best Director (Alauda Ruiz de Azúa)
• Best Original Screenplay (Alauda Ruiz de Azúa)
• Best Actress (Patricia López Arnaiz)

Ruiz de Azúa’s Vision and the Film’s Impact

Alauda Ruiz de Azúa, who previously won the Goya for Best New Director in 2022 for Cinco lobitos, expressed her gratitude and highlighted the importance of opportunities for talent, regardless of gender. She stated that while talent is universal, access to opportunities has historically been unequal.

The director noted that the film sparked significant conversation, with audiences over forty focusing on the religious aspects and younger viewers connecting with themes of individual freedom and familial judgment. She emphasized her focus on the dilemmas and questions a film generates, rather than predicting audience reactions.

Patricia López Arnaiz’s Recognition

Patricia López Arnaiz, awarded Best Leading Actress for her role in Los Domingos, described her character as “especially special.” She shared a sentiment echoed by fellow nominees – that roles often arrive at opportune moments in an actor’s life, offering a chance for personal connection and exploration. Arnaiz also discussed the research phase of the film, which included documentation on recruitment tactics used by sects, and the impact of these practices on individuals.

‘Sirat’ Receives Technical Awards

Oliver Laxe’s Sirât also garnered recognition at the Goya Awards, winning awards for Best Cinematography, Sound, and Editing.

Challenges in Bringing ‘Los Domingos’ to the Screen

Producers of Los Domingos acknowledged initial challenges in marketing the film, initially avoiding the use of the word “nun” in promotional materials. They ultimately embraced the film’s core theme, believing in its power to resonate with audiences.

Future Prospects and Potential Viewers

With the Pope Leo XIV scheduled to visit Spain in June, there was speculation about whether he might view Los Domingos. Producers also expressed hope that the film would reach Bad Bunny, who will be performing in Madrid during the same period.