IFF Panama’s Su Mirada Pics Explore Motherhood, Identity and Migration
The focus on motherhood is evident in the Su Mirada – Her Gaze program at IFF Panama, with a unique and unconventional approach. Industry coordinator Cat Caballero notes that this year’s selection explores different perspectives on motherhood, including a child’s relationship with his mother, a woman who chooses not to become a mother, and another struggling with the challenges of motherhood.
The theme of motherhood emerged organically in the program, even among films that were not selected. Caballero highlights the unconventional outlooks on the experience of motherhood that caught her attention.
The program is divided into two categories: development and post (WIP), with a cash prize of $5,000 for the winner of the former and $10,000 for the winner of the latter. The winners were chosen through virtual deliberations before the festival and will be announced at the closing night on April 12.
Thanks to the collaboration between IFF Panama and Colombia’s Cartagena Film Festival (FICCI), the winner of the WIP section will have the opportunity to further develop their project and build connections with potential partners at FICCI, which runs from April 14-19.
The lineup of films in the program includes a diverse range of projects that delve into various aspects of motherhood. From a documentary exploring hearing loss, migration, and motherhood to a docu-fiction hybrid that blends personal and creative urgency, the films offer a fresh perspective on the theme.
With a mix of fiction, documentary, and hybrid formats, the films in the program promise to deliver thought-provoking narratives that challenge traditional notions of motherhood. The diverse range of voices and storytelling approaches make the Su Mirada – Her Gaze program a must-see for audiences interested in exploring different facets of motherhood on screen.



