Puerto Vallarta: Ascending as a Premier Destination for International Film Productions
Following the highly successful presentation of the Filma Jalisco program at FITUR 2025, Puerto Vallarta is ambitiously positioning itself as a premier destination for international film productions. This groundbreaking initiative aims to attract filmmakers from around the world, showcasing the city’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich artistic heritage as ideal backdrops for a wide range of cinematic storytelling.
During the notable event, which gathered industry professionals, government representatives, and tourism stakeholders, Governor Pablo Lemus and municipal president Luis Munguía took center stage to shine a spotlight on the importance of the Filma Jalisco program. They outlined its four foundational pillars, each designed to provide comprehensive support and resources for film-related activities in the region:
- Filma Fund: The Filma Fund is a key component of the program, focused on offering robust economic incentives to filmmakers and production companies. By providing financial assistance in the form of grants, tax credits, and subsidies, the fund aims to make Puerto Vallarta an attractive option for both local and international productions. This support is intended to lower the overall cost of production, making it more feasible for filmmakers to shoot in the area while also stimulating the local economy through job creation and increased tourism.
- Filma Events: Another vital aspect of the program is the organization and attraction of film productions through a series of high-profile events. These events will serve as platforms for showcasing the stunning attributes of Puerto Vallarta and will invite industry professionals to engage in meaningful networking opportunities. By hosting film festivals, workshops, and industry conferences, the Filma Events component aims to create a dynamic environment that promotes collaboration and innovation within the film community, thereby enhancing the city’s reputation as a notable player in the filmmaking process.
- Filma Points: Concentrated on attracting investment, the Filma Points initiative plays a crucial role in establishing Puerto Vallarta—and the state of Jalisco—as an appealing locale for a variety of film projects. By facilitating investment opportunities and partnerships, this component of the program underscores the region’s potential for significant economic and cultural contributions to the film industry. The initiative aims to foster relationships between local businesses and film crews, ensuring that productions not only film but also invest back into the community.
- Filma Academy: Committed to talent development, the Filma Academy aims to nurture the skills and creativity of local individuals who aspire to work within the film industry. This academy will provide training, mentorship, and educational programs, equipping aspiring filmmakers, actors, and technical crews with the necessary tools to succeed. By cultivating a skilled workforce, the Filma Academy ensures that Puerto Vallarta is well-prepared to support both incoming productions and foster its own homegrown talent, leading to sustained growth in the local film industry.
During the presentation, Alejandra Cornejo, the Director of Tourism for Puerto Vallarta, reiterated the city’s unwavering commitment to becoming a benchmark for excellence in the rapidly evolving global film industry. “We are ready to receive great productions that will boost our destination,” she asserted, reflecting the city’s enthusiasm, strategic planning, and readiness to cater to filmmakers and their crews.
The overarching objective of the Filma Jalisco program is to establish Puerto Vallarta, in conjunction with the broader state of Jalisco, as a leading film destination—not only in Mexico but also across Latin America. By leveraging its unique assets, including stunning natural vistas, historical architecture, and a vibrant arts scene, the city differentiates itself as a prime setting for film productions of all genres, from romantic comedies to action-packed thrillers.
As the Filma Jalisco program unfolds, Puerto Vallarta looks forward to showcasing its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming hospitality to filmmakers from around the globe. The program promises to pave the way for a vibrant new chapter in the city’s tourism and arts sectors, blending cinematic exploration with the promotion of local culture and community engagement.
In conclusion, as Puerto Vallarta embraces this transformative initiative, it stands ready to make its mark on the global film industry, attracting major productions, enhancing the local economy, and elevating its status as a sought-after travel destination. The synergy created through the Filma Jalisco program has the potential to leave a lasting legacy, fostering a renewed sense of purpose and excitement within the community and positioning the city as a beacon of creativity and cultural richness in the realm of film.
