From June 19 to 29, San José will once again become the epicenter of independent cinema with the 13th edition of the Costa Rica International Film Festival (CRFIC). A total of 64 films from around the world—23 of them debut features—will offer a diverse, provocative, and deeply human cinematic experience.

This year’s edition stands out for its strong female representation, with half of the films directed by women, reaffirming the festival’s commitment to inclusion and emerging voices. CRFIC is not just a showcase of films, but a platform for dialogue, training, and artistic exploration.

🎥 Regional talent in competition

The official competitions will spotlight Central American and Caribbean filmmakers, both in feature and short film formats. These works explore themes of identity, territory, and collective memory, embracing bold and original storytelling.

Costa Rican productions in the spotlight

Among the most anticipated local titles are:

• El monaguillo, el cura y el jardinero by Juan Manuel Fernández Escoto.
• Ella se detiene a mirar by Álvaro Torres Crespo.
• Short films like Albura, Soñé con un paisaje, and Nos atraviesa un cuerpo de agua.

These productions not only compete but also connect with local audiences through deeply rooted visual and emotional narratives.

“La Melcocha”: video art beyond the screen

A major innovation this year is “La Melcocha”, a new video art section that will take over museums, galleries, and independent spaces across the city. This decentralized curation invites immersive experiences at the intersection of cinema, installation, and contemporary art.

📍 More than just screenings

In addition to film showings, the festival will host forums, talks, workshops, and masterclasses, turning San José into a city of cinema for ten days—where every corner could spark a new story.

🗓️ Full schedule available at CRFIC’s official site