Kerra Bolton, Filmmaker
USA / Mexico
“PAIFF was an amazing experience, especially for me as an emerging Black filmmaker. The festival organizers and the audience recognized my work in a way that felt deeply life-affirming. Most filmmakers attend festivals to network and to market and show their work. For me, the biggest thrill was sitting in communal spaces watching independent films that inspired, challenged, and surprised me."
Udara Wijesinghe, Filmmaker
Sri Lanka
"From day one, the PAIFF organizers provided an exceptional understanding of the event. Their communication was impeccable, ensuring that participants felt informed and engaged. we eagerly anticipate the next edition."
Hijas del Maguey, Film
Mexico
“Amazing festival in an idyllic location, everyone was really friendly and communication exceptional. It was a great way to showcase our documentary in a relaxed and cool environment and a lot of filmmakers and producers were there so it was perfect to network and meet other professionals and cinema lovers.”
The Puerto Aventuras International Film Festival (PAIFF) (@pafilmfestival) is entering its exciting third season after experiencing remarkable growth, with a 70% increase in film submissions from our inaugural year to year two, and a 45% boost in audience attendance. To date, we've proudly presented over 115 awards, including honors through our popular Early Bird Awards program.
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Set in the breathtaking Riviera Maya community of Puerto Aventuras, Mexico, PAIFF is an IMDb-qualifying, destination-style 5-day international film festival renowned for its highly interactive environment and vibrant screening locations. At PAIFF, audiences don't just watch films—they become an essential part of our judging process, adding a dynamic layer to filmmaker recognition.
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PAIFF provides a lucrative networking platform where filmmakers, industry insiders, and enthusiasts from around the globe converge to build lasting relationships, share insights, and celebrate outstanding cinema. Against the stunning Caribbean backdrop of pristine beaches and world-class amenities, our festival delivers an unforgettable experience designed to elevate filmmakers and connect powerful stories with appreciative audiences.
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Join us for our third season—become part of a cinematic journey where creativity flourishes and meaningful industry connections are made!
Brent Heise, Filmmaker
Portland, OR, USA
“Thank you for giving The Girl Who Faded Away a Best Visionary Director - Music Video award. It is an honor. I highly recommend this festival for its courtesy and beautiful locale in Puerto Aventuras."
Kyle Garrett, Filmmaker, Oakland, CA, USA
"They were super communicative and enthusiastic about the films and filmmakers. ...the locations for the screenings were beautiful and the fest felt unique and filmmakers felt special."
Karolina Alvarez, Filmmaker
Germany
“Thanks a lot for wonderful times with great people in a beautiful place. The quality and freedom of expression of all the chosen projects was the highest possible, thanks a lot for the best documentary director award and big effort from the part of organizors!!”
Originally founded by internationally-renowned filmmakers Dewey Paul Moffitt (Dewey Paul Films) and Moe Taylor (Braindagger Films), PAIFF continues to build on the legacy of excellence established in its first two years. Braindagger Films have been featured in over a hundred film festivals worldwide, winning top prizes in more than sixty events. Dewey Paul Moffitt is a veteran festival producer with over thirty years of experience in professional event production and a respected force in the international film community.
Gary Fieldman, Filmmaker
Denver, CO, USA
"Its something I look forward to every year as a filmmaker. Highly recommend!"
Johannes Thüermer, Filmmaker, Germany
“It was a great festival with beautiful locations for the screenings. We saw excellent films and met a lot of inspiring people. Thank you very much for the wonderful time and selecting our film for two awards."
Jorge Morais, Filmmaker
Spain
“One of the festival's great strengths lies in its location. Puerto Aventuras, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant atmosphere, provides the ideal backdrop for celebrating cinema.”
