Comparte:

Puerto Aventuras International Film Festival 2025: Conclusion and 65 Awards that Boost Independent Filmmaking

Destacados Visibles World, Agencia Creativa de Comunicaciones

PAIFF 2025

The second edition of the Puerto Aventuras International Film Festival (PAIFF) ended after five days of activities and a closing night in which 65 awards were presented to projects from around the world. The festival, held in the Riviera Maya, brought together filmmakers and attendees from 30 countries, becoming a benchmark for cultural exchange and the promotion of independent film in Mexico.

Program and Participation

This edition offered an extensive program that included open-air screenings, round tables and a talk given by Román Rivera Torres, architect and developer of Puerto Aventuras (a mini-city style tourist complex). Of the 134 entries received, 76 films were selected and 26 filmmakers were recognized in categories such as feature films, short films, documentaries, experimental works and music videos.

Photo: Román Rivera Torres, Developer Puerto Aventuras Resort.
Photo Credits : PAIFF25 - DP Moffitt

Statements by the Organizers

Dewey Paul Moffitt, co-founder of the festival, stated:

"This festival not only showcased international cinema, but was a conversation about identity, justice, heritage and imagination. We are proud to recognize both established creators and new voices that bring fresh perspectives."

Likewise, Moffitt added:

"Recognizing the wisdom, resilience and creativity of the Maya community is central to our work, and we are committed to being a platform for their stories."

Featured Awards

Best Feature Film: Sahara: End of Trip (Spain) - Directed by Antonio Rodriguez Cabal
Best First Visionary Feature: Conscious Co-Working (Mexico) - Directed by Matt Crowe
Best Documentary: The Power of One (Colombia/USA) - Directed by Alex Valdez and Pablo De la Fuente
Best Short Film: Nothing (U.S.A.) - Directed by Tom Miller and Alex Davidowski
Audience Award: Historias del Canal ( Panama) - Made by a collective of Panamanian filmmakers
Best Screenplay: Monarch - Written by Mauricio Herrera Manzur

First and Studio Films

Puerto Aventuras International Film Festival (PAIFF) highlighted emerging voices and new talent through the category of first films (at an International Film Festival). Conscious Co-Working presented a playful take on future collaboration; on the other hand, Return of the Black Madonna explored African American heritage, mysticism and migration with poetic intensity; while Love Hides in the Open brought a lyrical romance to the big screen. These filmmakers are just getting started, and their visions are already resonating across borders.

Photo credits: Gabriel Agustín Garay Opaso, Visibles.World

Closing and Future Perspectives

The closing night at Dreams Resort Aventuras brought together filmmakers and the public for an evening of music, stories and reflections. For the third edition, registrations will open on May 1, 2025, and Lifetime VIP Passes will be offered soon.

"After two consecutive years of growth, we are confident that our efforts will continue to propel the Puerto Aventuras community to international recognition."

Conscious Co Working Team Film - Photo courtesy: Matt Crowe

About PAIFF (Puerto Aventuras International Film Festival)

The Puerto Aventuras International Film Festival is an IMDb-rated festival that celebrates independent voices in one of Mexico's most notable coastal communities. With a commitment to transparency in the selection and promotion of independent film, the festival promotes cultural inclusion, environmental awareness and artistic excellence.

For a complete list of winners or more information, visit the official PAIFF website: More information about the International Film Festival in Puerto Aventuras, Riviera Maya, Mexico.

Photo credits: Matt Crowe