First Panamanian Feature Film
The first Panamanian feature film, "Al calor de mi bohío," directed by Ricardo J. Alfaro, was released. This marked the beginning of the Cinema of Panama.
1940
1970
Government Support for Cinema
The Panamanian government started to provide support for the local film industry, encouraging the production of more domestic films.
1979
Cine Experimental de la Universidad de Panamá
The Cine Experimental de la Universidad de Panamá was founded, offering film education and fostering new talent in the Cinema of Panama.
1980
Cinema Law 36
Law 36 was enacted, providing tax incentives and subsidies to support Panamanian filmmakers and promote the growth of the Cinema of Panama.
1994
First International Film Festival in Panama
Panama hosted its first international film festival, bringing global attention to the Cinema of Panama and showcasing local talent.
1998
Founding of GECU
The Grupo Experimental de Cine Universitario (GECU) was established, further promoting film education and production in the Cinema of Panama.
2000
Rise of Independent Filmmakers
The early 2000s saw a rise in independent filmmakers in Panama, contributing to a more diverse and dynamic Cinema of Panama.
2003
Release of "Los puños de una nación"
"Los puños de una nación," a documentary by Pituka Ortega-Heilbron, gained international acclaim and brought attention to the Cinema of Panama.
2006
First Panamanian Film to Win an International Award
"Chance," directed by Abner Benaim, became the first Panamanian film to win an international award, marking a milestone for the Cinema of Panama.
2011
Establishment of Panama Film Commission
The Panama Film Commission was established to attract international film productions and support the growth of the Cinema of Panama.
2012
Inaugural Panama International Film Festival
The first Panama International Film Festival (IFF Panama) was held, providing a platform for local and international films and boosting the Cinema of Panama.
2013
Panama Film Fund
The Panama Film Fund was created to provide financial support for Panamanian filmmakers, further developing the Cinema of Panama.
2015
Oscar Entry for Panama
"Invasion," a documentary by Abner Benaim, became Panama's first submission for the Best Foreign Language Film category at the Oscars, highlighting the Cinema of Panama on a global stage.
2017
Release of "Salsipuedes"
"Salsipuedes," directed by Ricardo Aguilar Navarro and Manuel Rodríguez, was released, receiving critical acclaim and further establishing the Cinema of Panama.
2020
Growth of Digital Platforms
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the growth of digital platforms for film distribution, offering new opportunities for the Cinema of Panama to reach wider audiences.
2023
Success of "Plaza Catedral"
"Plaza Catedral," directed by Abner Benaim, received international awards and recognition, showcasing the evolving talent and storytelling in the Cinema of Panama.
