Mexico’s Monterrey Film Festival (FICMonterrey) is setting its sights on ambitious goals to elevate its international reputation. With strong backing from state, local, and private sponsors, as well as some federal support, the festival, scheduled for Sept. 28 – Oct. 4, is on a mission to become Mexico’s leading international film festival and a central creative hub for the country.
The 19th edition of the festival brings a fresh perspective with its new director, Janeth Aguirre, marking the first time a woman has taken the helm. Alongside her, Diana Cadavid, a well-known programmer from the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), LA Latino International Film Festival (LALIFF), and Cali International Film Festival in Colombia, joins as head of the festival’s growing industry section. Also, Alvar Carretero, a PR professional based in LA, will handle media relations through Joshua Jason Public Relations.
As part of its tribute to South Korea, this year’s guest of honor, the festival will kick off with a screening of “Little Forest” by Yim Soonrye, one of the leading female directors of South Korea’s New Wave cinema. A special retrospective will showcase five of her films as part of the tribute.
The Monterrey Film Festival has long been a prominent showcase for Mexican cinema, but 2025 marks a turning point. As the festival unveils its new lineup, it’s clear that this year’s event is going to be bigger and more internationally diverse than ever before. With a global vision in mind, the festival is setting its sights on becoming a leading player in the international film scene.
This year, audiences will experience a mix of local talent and international films, including premieres, thought-provoking documentaries, and experimental narratives. What does this shift mean for the future of Latin American cinema, and how is Monterrey positioning itself within the global film festival community? Let’s take a closer look.
GALLERY – WORLD HIGHLIGHTS
- “Monster” – Hirokazu Kore-eda (Japan, Latin American Premiere)
- “The Space Race” – Lisa Cortes and Diego Hurtado de Mendoza (U.S., Latin American Premiere)
- “Peafowl” – Byun Sungbin (South Korea, Latin American Premiere)
- “Waiting for Dali” – David Pujol (Spain, Latin American Premiere)
- “Afire” (“Cielo rojo”) – Christian Petzold (Germany, Nuevo León Premiere)
- “La piel pulpo” – Ana Cristina Barragán (Ecuador, Nuevo León Premiere)
- “It’s a Wrap” – Amit Miller and Miri Urman (Israel, Latin American Premiere)
- “Hypnosis: Deadly Weapon” – Robert Rodriguez (U.S., Mexican Premiere)
INTERNATIONAL FEATURE FILMS IN COMPETITION
- “From You” – Shin Dongmin, South Korea (Latin American Premiere)
- “The Wall” – Philippe Van Leeuw, Luxembourg, Denmark, U.S. (Latin American Premiere)
- “Dear Memories” – Nahuel López, Germany, Switzerland (Mexican Premiere)
- “Matusalén” – David Galán Galindo, Spain (World Premiere)
- “Opponent” – Milad Alami, Sweden (Latin American Premiere)
- “Un hogar sin armarios” – Eduardo Cubillo Blasco, Spain (Latin American Premiere)
LATIN AMERICAN FEATURE FILMS IN COMPETITION
- “The Punishment” – Matías Bize, Chile, Argentina (Mexican Premiere)
- “Ese soplo” – Valentina Baracco Pena, Uruguay (Latin American Premiere)
- “The Rescue” – Daniela Goggi, Argentina, U.S. (Latin American Premiere)
- “Las preñadas” – Pedro Wallace, Argentina, Brazil (Mexican Premiere)
- “La sombra del sol” – Miguel Ángel Ferrer, Venezuela, U.S. (Mexican Premiere)
MEXICAN FEATURE FILMS IN COMPETITION
- “Un mundo mejor” – Janett Juárez (World Premiere)
- “Sal Azul” – Alejandro Cervantes Polanco (World Premiere)
- “Amor Fantasma” – Marusia Estrada (Mexican Premiere)
- “No quiero ser polvo” – Iván Löwenberg (Mexican Premiere)
- “La Pipera” – Miguel Pérez (Nuevo León Premiere)
KOREAN GUEST COUNTRY
OPENING FILM:
- “Little Forest” – Yim Soonrye
INTERNATIONAL TRIBUTE – YIM SOONRYE:
- “Promenade in the Rain”
- “Waikiki Brothers”
- “Forever the Moment”
- “Rolling Home with a Bull”
- “South Bound”
KOREAN CINEMA: A LOOK AT CONTEMPORARY FEMALE-DIRECTED FILMS
- “The World of Us” – Gaeun Yoon
- “Moving On” – Danbi Yoon
- “Honest Candidate” – You-jeong Chang
- “Next Sohee” – July Jung
- “The Summer” – Ji-won Han
- “The Apartment with Two Women” – Sein Kim
What’s New in the Monterrey Film Festival 2025?
In 2025, the Monterrey Film Festival is broadening its scope, aiming to attract international filmmakers while still celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Mexican cinema. The festival is focusing on expanding its outreach, bringing in filmmakers and audiences from across the globe to connect through stories that explore universal themes with local flavor.
Key Features of the 2025 Monterrey Film Festival:
- New International Partnerships: Collaborations with major international film markets and distributors.
- Expanded Screening Program: A wider range of films from countries all over the world, including premieres.
- Industry Panels: Events aimed at connecting filmmakers, producers, and distributors, fostering collaboration across borders.
- Focus on Emerging Filmmakers: An emphasis on new voices from Mexico and abroad.
Why Monterrey’s New International Focus is Important
The festival’s pivot toward international recognition is a response to the growing demand for global platforms that showcase films representing diverse cultures. While many film festivals around the world have been traditionally focused on specific countries or regions, Monterrey’s expanded reach seeks to challenge that norm and create a truly global cinema experience.
Statistics to Consider:
- Mexican cinema has seen a global rise, with films like Roma (2018) and The Chambermaid (2018) gaining international critical acclaim.
- Monterrey’s new approach will help filmmakers tap into global networks, allowing their works to be seen by international audiences.
- Film tourism is a growing market, and Monterrey’s efforts to expand the festival could help boost both the film industry and tourism in the region.
Key Films and Talent at the 2025 Monterrey Film Festival
This year’s lineup is packed with exciting films that offer fresh perspectives on Latin American culture, social issues, and personal stories. Prominent Mexican filmmakers are joined by international directors, presenting works that explore everything from political struggles to identity.
Some highlights include:
- Premieres of highly anticipated films from Mexico and around the world.
- Special retrospective screenings honoring the work of iconic filmmakers.
- Documentaries that bring attention to important issues affecting global communities, especially in Latin America.
By including such a diverse slate of films, Monterrey’s festival is setting the stage for cinematic innovation while continuing to champion local filmmakers.
The Monterrey Film Festival’s Global Ambitions
Monterrey’s push for international exposure is reflective of the broader trend in the film industry to expand beyond borders. The festival’s commitment to diversifying its selection and attracting global talent is part of a larger effort to bring international prestige to the region.
Some of the festival’s key goals include:
- Attracting more international press coverage to elevate the festival’s profile.
- Providing filmmakers with the opportunity to network with distributors and potential investors.
- Making Monterrey a cultural hub for global filmmakers looking to share their work with new audiences.
As Monterrey expands its reach, it aims to position itself alongside other major international film festivals, such as Sundance and Cannes, as a space for meaningful cultural exchange and global collaboration.
What This Means for Mexican Cinema
Monterrey’s international ambitions are part of a larger movement within Mexican cinema to gain greater global recognition. As the festival grows in stature, it will provide an essential platform for Mexican filmmakers to showcase their work on the world stage, contributing to the global dialogue about Latin American cinema.
This shift also benefits local audiences who now have the opportunity to engage with a broader spectrum of films, reflecting the diversity of global storytelling.
Conclusion
As Monterrey Film Festival 2025 kicks off, it’s clear that this year marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. By embracing its international ambitions and broadening its scope, Monterrey is positioning itself as a vital player in the global film scene. With a stellar lineup of films, industry panels, and exciting opportunities for emerging talent, the festival is sure to provide both local audiences and international guests with an unforgettable cinematic experience.
FAQs
1. When is the Monterrey Film Festival 2025?
The Monterrey Film Festival will take place from October 1-10, 2025.
2. Who can attend the Monterrey Film Festival?
The festival is open to film industry professionals, students, and general audiences interested in exploring international cinema.
3. How do I submit a film to the Monterrey Film Festival?
Filmmakers can submit their works through the festival’s official website. The submission deadlines and guidelines are clearly listed there.
4. What types of films are featured at the festival?
The festival showcases a mix of international films, including premieres, documentaries, fiction films, and experimental cinema.
5. Will there be industry events at the festival?
Yes, the festival includes industry panels and networking opportunities for filmmakers, producers, and distributors.
6. How can I get tickets for the Monterrey Film Festival?
Tickets are available for purchase through the official festival website, where attendees can also find screening schedules.