Angelina Jolie to Premiere Surprise Documentary on Mayan Bees at PAIFF

In a stunning last-minute addition to the 2025 Puerto Aventuras International Film Festival (PAIFF), organizers have confirmed that Hollywood icon Angelina Jolie will premiere an exclusive documentary focused on the endangered Melipona beecheii—also known as the sacred Mayan bee. This unannounced bonus screening will take place in a private residence courtyard overlooking Puerto Aventuras' Fatima Bay, with Jolie herself expected to appear in person for a rare Q&A.

The film, tentatively titled Whispers of the Hive, explores the mystical role these stingless bees played in ancient Mayan society, as well as modern efforts to preserve them in the Yucatán Peninsula. Co-produced by National Geographic and Jolie’s own conservation foundation, the documentary was filmed under tight secrecy and includes never-before-seen footage in collaboration with local Mayan beekeepers.

Festival co-founder Dewey Paul Moffitt said, “We’re honored to provide a platform for such a powerful piece of storytelling. This surprise addition captures the spirit of the festival—where nature, heritage, and cinema intersect. Having Angelina Jolie join us in person is a once-in-a-lifetime unbeelievable opportunity for our community and our guests.”

PAIFF’s early bird winners and featured filmmakers are already buzzing (pun intended) about the announcement, with speculation that the screening will feature a ceremonial blessing and a honey tasting curated by indigenous elders. Space is limited for the session, and invitations are reportedly being delivered by hand—fitting for a screening that’s shaping up to be the sweetest ticket of the year.

And while April is often a month full of surprises, this one may just be too wild to bee-lieve. 🐝 😉