IFF Panama Expands with Documentary Competition

The Panama International Film Festival (IFF Panama) is set to host its 14th edition from April 9-12, featuring an expanded program. A significant new addition is an international competition dedicated to documentary features, reflecting the festival's commitment to diverse global storytelling. The festival will open with Augusto Zegarra's acclaimed Peruvian documentary, "Runa Simi," which previously won an award at Tribeca for its focus on linguistic preservation through the Quechua dubbing of "The Lion King."

This year's festival will screen approximately 40 films from various continents, with primary venues at the new City of Arts complex, the National Theatre, and the Canal Museum. Additionally, outdoor screenings are planned, including one by the Bio Museum for families and another in San Miguelito featuring the Spanish family movie "Olivia and the Invisible Earthquake." A record seven Panamanian films will compete, including Abner Benaim's "Tropical Paradise."