GIFF: From Modest Beginnings to Global Recognition

By Aundria McMillan Humphrey

The 2025 Guanajuato International Film Festival, GIFF, will take place in San Miguel de Allende from July 29^th to July 31^st. GIFF is one of México’s most prestigious film festivals, known for its bold programming and unique screening locations, such as the tunnels in Guanajuato and graveyards in San Miguel.

Founded in San Miguel de Allende in 1998 by Sarah Hoch and Ernesto Herrera, it was originally called Expresión en Corto, because it started as a short film festival. From its earliest days, short films were its core focus, and screenings were held in intimate settings—sometimes even projected on the colonial facades of San Miguel’s iconic architecture. As the festival grew, so did its reputation. Soon, it was drawing filmmakers from around the world. It was clear that Expresión en Corto had outgrown its original format, and in the early 2000s, it adopted the name Guanajuato International Film Festival and moved its main hub to Guanajuato City.

Nevertheless, San Miguel has remained a key location offering a historic and artistic backdrop for screenings and events. The city’s colonial charm and vibrant arts scene make it a perfect setting for film discussions, premieres, and cultural exchanges. This year’s festival offers a program of narratives, documentaries, short films, animation, and immersive virtual-reality experiences.

Renowned industry figures will deliver master classes in the city’s esteemed cultural centers; specialist panels will explore innovations in storytelling and production; and emerging filmmakers will take part in a 48-hour student rally, transforming cobblestone streets into on-location film sets.  San Miguel de Allende will also host free open-air screenings under the stars. Other festival highlights will include Children-In-Action for children ages 8-13 who will get to walk the Red Carpet in their favorite character-in-films costumes. They will participate in workshops on how to make movies, produce one-minute short films, and learn about animation using artificial intelligence (AI).  The LGBQT+ Midnight Madness will feature erotic films. Two women, whose work could be in acting, production, directing, film editing, or journalism, will be recognized. Folks attending the San Miguel de Allende festival can look forward to an atmosphere of artistic collaboration that reflects the city’s rich heritage and its forward-looking spirit.

For moreinformationabout GIFF go to https://giff.mx