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Season 3 Open Call Now Live: Submit Your Film to the Puerto Aventuras International Film Festival

Updated: May 13



The Puerto Aventuras International Film Festival (PAIFF) has officially launched its Season 3 Open Call for Submissions, inviting filmmakers, screenwriters, and music video creators from around the globe to submit their work to one of the fastest-growing destination festivals in the world. Nestled between Cancun and Tulum in the breathtaking Riviera Maya, our IMDb-qualifying festival offers a five-day celebration of storytelling, cinematic innovation, and community—set against a backdrop of pristine beaches and world-class hospitality.


Since our inaugural year, PAIFF has experienced tremendous growth—film submissions jumped by 70% from year one to two, while audience attendance soared by 45%, proving that word is spreading about the festival where filmmakers and audiences truly connect. Over 115 awards have been presented to date, including through our Seasonal Early Bird Awards, which spotlight 15 standout projects (5 per deadline across Summer, Fall, and Winter). These early selections automatically qualify as Official Selections and Annual Nominees, competing for over 50 prestigious awards at our main event, taking place this season from March 25–29, 2026.


We’ve made submissions easier than ever (starting as low as $5 for music videos): one submission fee enters your project into all awards applicable to your chosen submission type, which include:

  • Feature Films (60 minutes or longer) Feature-length narrative films will be considered for all applicable non-documentary awards.

  • Short Films (under 60 minutes) Short-form narrative projects under one hour in length will be considered for all applicable short film awards.

  • Documentary Projects (all lengths) Documentary films of any length—short or feature—are eligible for all relevant documentary awards.

  • Animation and/or AI-Generated Films Animated and AI-created films, including hybrid forms, will be reviewed across all applicable categories.

  • Music Videos Music video projects are eligible for all related awards, including those recognizing originality, visual direction, and sound.

  • Screenplays Narrative screenplays of any genre written in English are eligible for screenplay-specific awards. It’s encouraged to include a poster image and have a presentation (e.g. PowerPoint) prepared if attending the festival.

  • Works-In-Progress / Teasers / Sizzle Reels (under 45 minutes) Unfinished projects and previews may be submitted for Works-In-Progress awards. This category offers a platform for feedback, networking, and early exposure.

🌟 New This Season: We’re Accepting “Works In Progress”

We’re excited to introduce a brand-new opportunity in Season 3: submissions of Works In Progress. If you're still editing or seeking feedback, this is your chance to showcase your in-progress project or teaser (up to 45 minutes) before a dynamic and engaged festival audience. While not required, we encourage attending in person for best networking results.


Submission Tips for the Best Chance of Selection:

  • Include a downloadable trailer (max 90 seconds) with English subtitles

  • Upload a professional poster image

  • Submit a brief synopsis, director bio, and cast/crew credits

  • All films must include English subtitles (Spanish subtitles are encouraged but not required)

  • Scripts must be written in English

  • Music videos in non-English languages must include English subtitles


Key Rules & Reminders:

  • Submitters must own all rights to the film/script/music video.

  • By submitting, you grant PAIFF permission to use promotional materials (poster, trailer, stills, excerpts).

  • Entry fees and festival passes are non-refundable.

  • Projects cannot be withdrawn after official selection announcements.

  • If selected, filmmakers must provide a downloadable full HD file at least 30 days before the event.

  • Attending filmmakers are expected to purchase a discounted festival pass or provide a virtual introduction if attendance isn’t possible.

  • Students must provide proof of student status for reduced fees.


Don’t miss your chance to be part of this cinematic celebration where creativity thrives, the audience is your jury, and the Caribbean is your stage.


Let the stories begin—Season 3 is officially underway!


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