Guadalajara Film Festival Celebrates 40 Years with FICG Goes to Berlin

The Guadalajara Film Festival (FICG), Mexico's premier film festival, is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a showcase titled FICG Goes to Berlin, running from January 30 to February 8, 2026, at Berlin's Kino Babylon. Established in 1986, the festival has become a significant platform for Mexican and Latin American cinema, promoting new voices and talent. Under the direction of Estrella Araiza since 2019, FICG has navigated challenges, including funding fluctuations and the COVID-19 pandemic, to emerge as one of the largest film festivals in Latin America, boasting an attendance of 289,777 in 2025.

Top Latin America Fest Guadalajara Goes to Berlin With Best of Fest Hits From Mexico’s ‘Amelie’ to Diego Luna Passion Project, the Standout ‘State of Silence’

FICG Goes to Berlin will present a selection of 27 films, including 18 fiction features and 9 documentaries. Notable titles include "State of Silence," directed by Santiago Maza, which explores the perilous conditions faced by journalists in Mexico, and "Corina," a dramedy by Urzula Barba Hopfner that has been likened to "Amélie." The festival highlights a range of themes, from familial bonds to societal critiques, reflecting the diverse narratives emerging from Mexican cinema.

Top Latin America Fest Guadalajara Goes to Berlin With Best of Fest Hits From Mexico’s ‘Amelie’ to Diego Luna Passion Project, the Standout ‘State of Silence’

Estrella Araiza remarked on the festival's evolution, stating, "FICG Goes to Berlin is not just a celebration; it marks our transformation into a year-round cultural driver." This sentiment reflects the festival's commitment to fostering a vibrant film community and promoting Mexican cinema on the global stage.

Top Latin America Fest Guadalajara Goes to Berlin With Best of Fest Hits From Mexico’s ‘Amelie’ to Diego Luna Passion Project, the Standout ‘State of Silence’

While the festival garners significant acclaim, some critics argue that the focus on new voices may overshadow established filmmakers. However, the festival's dedication to showcasing a broad spectrum of narratives aims to balance this perspective.

Top Latin America Fest Guadalajara Goes to Berlin With Best of Fest Hits From Mexico’s ‘Amelie’ to Diego Luna Passion Project, the Standout ‘State of Silence’

There are varying opinions on the impact of the festival's initiatives. Some sources highlight the festival's role in elevating new talent, while others suggest that it may not adequately support established filmmakers. This discrepancy indicates a potential area for further exploration in future editions.

Top Latin America Fest Guadalajara Goes to Berlin With Best of Fest Hits From Mexico’s ‘Amelie’ to Diego Luna Passion Project, the Standout ‘State of Silence’

• “Fast-paced in its interviews, “State of Silence” achieves an aesthetic cinematographic finish with the idea of ennobling the extraordinary courage of journalists portrayed, Maza explained to Variety.” — Santiago Maza, Director

Top Latin America Fest Guadalajara Goes to Berlin With Best of Fest Hits From Mexico’s ‘Amelie’ to Diego Luna Passion Project, the Standout ‘State of Silence’

As the Guadalajara Film Festival prepares for its 40th edition, the FICG Goes to Berlin initiative underscores its ongoing commitment to promoting Mexican cinema and fostering new talent on an international scale.

Top Latin America Fest Guadalajara Goes to Berlin With Best of Fest Hits From Mexico’s ‘Amelie’ to Diego Luna Passion Project, the Standout ‘State of Silence’