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‘Tender Loving Care’ wins the Golden Shell at San Sebastián 2026

Director Mike Leigh bids farewell to his film career with the festival's top award. Javier Cámara receives the Silver Shell for his role in ‘Cinco minutos más’.

27 September 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: ‘Tender Loving Care’ wins the Golden Shell at San Sebastián 2026 — Archive photoPhoto: José Carlos Cortizo Pérez · Flickr · BY-SA

The film ‘Tender Loving Care’, directed by British filmmaker Mike Leigh, has won the Golden Shell at the 74th edition of the San Sebastián Festival. This recognition marks the cinematic farewell of Leigh, who has indicated that he will likely retire from filmmaking after this work. ‘Tender Loving Care’ has received a total of three awards during the festival, including accolades for actress Kate O'Flynn and for the screenplay.

Javier Cámara has been awarded the Silver Shell for his performance in the fantasy comedy ‘Cinco minutos más’. His role stood out among the nominees, and the jury awarded him this significant prize for his interpretation.

Additionally, the film ‘La bola negra’, also featured at the festival, has won the Audience Award, adding further recognition to its success in the competition. 'Tender Loving Care' was presented as a complex work, combining elements of emotion and social critique, focusing on the work of social workers in London.

Leigh, known for his distinctive style and focus on social themes, has captured the attention of both the audience and the jury with his latest work. This film has been described as a affirmation of compassion and care, elements that resonate throughout the director's narrative.

The festival, which concluded with the award ceremony, has served as a meeting point for various filmmakers and notable works. The complete list of winners includes several titles praised for their creativity and depth.

The screening of ‘Tender Loving Care’ has marked a milestone in Mike Leigh's career, whose legacy in cinema is widely recognized. With this award, the festival reaffirms its commitment to quality cinema, highlighting works that provoke reflection and dialogue among viewers.

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