Chile has been chosen as the Guest Country of Honor at the 41st Guadalajara Film Festival (FICG), which will take place from April 17 to 25 this year. This recognition comes at a time when Chile’s film industry has experienced significant growth, with a strong presence at international events such as the Berlinale and the European Film Market.
Gabriela Sandoval, a producer and advisory board member of CinemaChile, highlighted the advancements in Chilean cinema since the country was last honored at FICG in 2019. She also noted the recent launch of Chile’s new film commission at Ventana Sur in December and the record number of Chilean contenders at the upcoming Goyas, Spain’s equivalent of the Oscars.
The selection of Chile as the Guest of Honor Country at FICG underscores the country’s strength in national audiovisual production and content. This recognition positions Chile as a key creative partner in the region and enhances its international profile, according to Sandoval.
Chile’s involvement at FICG dates back to 2003 when it presented a showcase of classic and recent films, featuring works by renowned filmmakers such as RaĂşl Ruiz, Miguel LittĂn, and Patricio Guzmán. Since then, Chilean cinema has maintained a consistent presence at the festival, participating in main competitions, special screenings, and industry programs.
The collaboration between Chile and Mexico at FICG has facilitated international outreach and co-production, leading to partnerships with countries like Portugal, Brazil, and Spain. The festival, under the leadership of festival director Estrella Araiza and industry section head Ximena Urrutia, has become a crucial platform for creative exchange and industry collaboration.
Chile’s presence at FICG reaffirms cultural, creative, and production ties with Mexico and the global film industry. ProChile, a part of Chile’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the country’s historic export figures in the audiovisual sector, exceeding $106 million in 2025.
FICG, originally founded by Guillermo del Toro in Guadalajara, has evolved into one of the largest film festivals in Latin America. With a total attendance of 289,777 for all activities last year, the festival continues to attract a diverse audience and industry professionals.
Minister of Culture, Arts, and Heritage Carolina Arredondo Marzán emphasized the importance of culture and the creative industries in Chile’s comprehensive and sustainable development. The recognition of Chile as the Guest of Honor Country at FICG 2026 is seen as a positive step for the sector and the country as a whole.
