Guadalajara Fest Hits Berlin: 10 Mexican Films Shine

Mexico's Guadalajara Film Festival (FICG), marking its 40th anniversary, is presenting a special showcase titled 'FICG Goes to Berlin' at the historic Kino Babylon from January 30 to February 8. This event, coinciding with the festival's preparations for its 2026 edition, shines a spotlight on recent notable Mexican cinema.

The showcase features 18 fiction and 9 documentary features, with Variety highlighting 10 films that represent the diverse landscape of contemporary Mexican filmmaking. Among them are established directors like Santiago Maza with 'State of Silence,' picked up by Netflix, and José Manuel Cravioto with 'Rock, Weeds and Rocanrol.'

Six of the selected films are debut features, emphasizing FICG's commitment to nurturing new talent. The chosen films tackle significant social themes, from the safety of journalists in 'State of Silence' to societal conservatism in 'Rock, Weeds and Rocanrol.' The selection also spans various genres, including auteurist, LGBTQ-focused narratives, and romantic dramas.

Many films in the showcase explore profound familial bonds, such as the father-son relationship in 'Concert For Other Hands' and the mother-son dynamic in 'A reflection on motherhood when social precepts on gender roles, love relationships ad sexuality are transforming.' Other featured films include 'Corina,' 'The Fabulous Gold Harvesting Machine,' 'The Mollusk,' 'Twelve Moons,' and 'We Shall Not Be Moved,' Mexico's 2026 Oscar entry.

FICG, founded in 1986, has grown into one of Latin America's largest film festivals, drawing nearly 290,000 attendees in 2025. Its industry programs, including the Co-Production Meeting and pix-in-post showcase, further solidify its position as a vital platform for filmmakers and industry professionals.