BREAKING: Ventana Sur 2025 is officially back in Buenos Aires, and it’s projected to see an impressive 30% increase in attendance this year, with up to 3,000 accredited participants, including 500 buyers and sales agents. The event kicks off under the leadership of Ralph Haiek, former president of INCAA, who now serves as executive director.
Just announced, this year’s edition promises to be a pivotal moment for the Latin American film industry. Haiek, alongside co-directors Guillaume Esmiol of the Marché du Film and Gisella Previtali, president of Uruguay’s ACAU, aims to leverage this platform for financing, international distribution, and regional growth amid a challenging global landscape.
Why does this matter now? The film industry is experiencing a profound shift, with declining audiences and rising post-pandemic costs. Haiek emphasizes that “Ventana Sur 2025 is strategically essential” to boost the market’s resilience and innovation.
Last year’s event faced significant challenges due to Argentina’s economic crisis, prompting a rebranding and relocation to Montevideo, where it received widespread acclaim. However, the event’s return to Buenos Aires highlights the region’s commitment to fostering talent and collaboration across borders. “Sustained public support for a market like Ventana Sur is essential,” Haiek states.
New for 2025, Ventana Sur introduces several innovative strands. VS Tech expands the former video-game section with 10 projects focused on technological trends in film production. The WBD + Mundoloco CGI | Launchpad Series aims to accelerate the development of regional animated series, while Anfibia Pro promotes literary adaptations through workshops and market days.
Attendees can also look forward to the VS Animation! Pitching Sessions, featuring seven projects each from both features and series. The Films in Progress sidebar will present eight additional titles, showcasing the breadth of talent in Latin America.
“Ventana Sur has become the go-to market for closing deals and discovering new voices shaping Latin American storytelling,” says Esmiol. “Its influence is clear in the steady rise in international attendance.”
Notable films that have launched from Ventana Sur include David Casademunt’s title, which premiered on Netflix, and Flávia Neves’s work that made its mark at the Berlinale. The buzz surrounding these films underscores the event’s significance as a breeding ground for talent and innovation.
As the event unfolds, the spotlight will be on how these new initiatives will impact collaboration across the region. The 2026 edition is already confirmed to return to Uruguay, further solidifying the strategic alternation between Buenos Aires and Montevideo.
With the opening day approaching, the anticipation is palpable. Ventana Sur 2025 is not just a festival; it represents a crucial opportunity for the Latin American audiovisual sector to thrive. Stay tuned as we bring you the latest updates from this dynamic event!
