The International Film Festival of Panama (IFF Panamá 2026) held one of its most dynamic Saturdays, showcasing a strong presence of national film productions. The festival's program, held at the National Theater and City of the Arts, offered the public a wide range, from auteur cinema and contemporary documentaries to new Latin American narratives, consolidating the festival as a space for dialogue on identity and current challenges.
National Premieres and Ancient Visions. Panamanian cinema shone with the premiere of 'Saloma' by director Miguel I. González, a portrait of rural life in Azuero. Likewise, the closing of the day at the National Theater was headlined by Abner Benaim with his work 'Paraíso Tropical', a piece dedicated to the victims with a strong personal charge.
International Debuts and Immersive Proposals. On the international stage, Puerto Rican director Ari Manuel Cruz chose IFF Panamá 2026 for the world premiere of his comedy 'Sana y Salva'. The festival also promotes purpose-driven cinema and community screenings. Director Darlene Naponse presented 'AKI', a non-verbal sensory experience that explores the spiritual connection to the land from an indigenous worldview.
