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!
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.
Newswire:
https://kalkinemedia.com/news/world-news/braindagger-films-and-dewey-paul-films-announce-launch-of-the-puerto-aventuras-international-film-festival
https://farmpresstheme.com/travel/puerto-aventuras-international-film-festival-unveils-exciting-program-screening-over-50-projects-from-27-countries/
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I'm so grateful to have my BERLIN shown at the festival!!
-Ashley Bogley, Filmmaker
PAIFF really showed out in its first year and I can’t wait to see where they go next. They were super communicative and enthusiastic about the films and filmmakers. Even though I couldn’t attend, I could tell the locations for the screenings were beautiful and the fest felt unique and filmmakers felt special. Even from afar they gave my music video some awards, too - so count me among the filmmakers who felt special. Cheers PAIFF!
-Kyle Garrett, Filmmaker
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.
-Brent Heise, Filmmaker
So appreciative of being accepted to this festival. Was actually a fun and very personable experience in the lead up to the festival -- connecting with Moe and Dewey and others. Although I didn't make it down for the festival, I wish I had. It looked like a super location and adventure, and time to connect with other filmmakers.
-Jim Merkel, Filmmaker
Thanks a lot for wonderful times with great people in beautiful place. The quality and freedom of expression of all the chosen project was the highest possible, thanks a lot for the best documentary director award and big effort from the part of organizators !!
-Karolina Alvarez, Filmmaker
I just attended the inaugural Puerto Aventuras International Film Festival. Set against the picturesque resort/marina town of Puerto Aventuras on the Caribbean, in the heart of the Mayan Riviera, it was incredible experience. The tropical surroundings and outdoor venues contributed to an easy-going and casual experience. Movies on the beach, informal networking sessions, and plenty of time to take in the local sights between events made for an exceptional experience. The events were well-organized, the hosts were friendly and approachable, and I particularly enjoyed the ability to network with other nominees and participants. This was my first Film Festival, and it exceeded my expectations. Several others I spoke to who have been to other Film Festivals expressed that PAIFF quickly became a favourite of theirs - particularly because of the tropical backdrop and casual setting. Given that this was the inaugural event, I expect it will only get better in the coming years.
-James Downham, Musician
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
Money Maker: Saygin Yalcin for two awards (Best Documentary Short and Best Director).
We hope to see you all soon.
-Johannes Thüermer, Filmmaker
It was truly an honor to screen not one but two of our latest shorts (DATING AUDREY and DOMINO SPRINGS) at the inaugural Puerto Aventuras International Film Festival. From the very beginning, the festival directors (Moe and Dewey) were extremely friendly and accessible — not to mention super talented filmmakers in their own rights. We sincerely appreciated them consistently promoting our work before, during, and after the event. Of course, as others have said, you can’t beat the tropical setting and laid back vibe of this festival, which was key for networking with all the other gifted artists. I know this festival will only become more sought out and even better over time. With three wins, we literally want to make movies just for the chance to visit again!
-Dan Hertzog, Filmmaker
Thanks a lot for selecting & electing our film 'Bumper' [Winner: Best Debut Feature Film]. We were delighted and impressed with the arrangements and the courtesy of the festival team. All the very best for the future editions.
-Seerkatchi Bhaskaran, Filmmaker
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