The Locarno Pro First Look program, a significant platform for showcasing global arthouse cinema, will prominently feature Uruguay at its upcoming 79th edition. This strategic collaboration aims to propel six Uruguayan feature films, currently in their post-production phase, onto the international stage. Through this initiative, Uruguayan producers will have the invaluable opportunity to connect with leading sales agents, distributors, and festival programmers, thereby enhancing the global reach and market trajectory of their cinematic works.

Locarno Pro Shines a Spotlight on Uruguayan Filmmaking Talent

On February 15, 2026, the Locarno Pro program announced its decision to dedicate its 15th edition of First Look to Uruguayan cinema. During the 79th Locarno Film Festival, scheduled from August 5th to 15th, six promising Uruguayan feature films, all in various stages of post-production, will be presented to a distinguished audience of international film industry professionals. This includes renowned sales agents, discerning buyers, influential festival programmers, and representatives from post-production funds.

Markus Duffner, the esteemed director of Locarno Pro, expressed his immense satisfaction with this year's focus on Uruguay. He emphasized that the First Look initiative continues to be a cornerstone of their mission to support the final stages of outstanding films and to facilitate the international careers of emerging filmmakers. The collaboration with ACAU, Uruguay's film institute, is poised to significantly bolster the international standing of Uruguayan production companies. This strategic partnership ensures that, beyond the on-site presentations, all featured projects will be readily accessible to accredited professionals through the Festival's comprehensive online digital library.

Gisella Pevitali, the president of ACAU, echoed Duffner's sentiments, highlighting that Uruguay's prominent presence at the Locarno Film Festival's First Look 2026 represents a pivotal moment for the nation's cinematography this year. She affirmed that this not only acknowledges the rich talent within Uruguay but also underscores the continuous progress of their public policies and the tangible, increasing international appreciation for the exceptional quality, diverse narratives, and original artistic vision embedded in Uruguayan cinematic creations.

Historically, Locarno has welcomed Uruguayan productions and co-productions across various sections, illustrating a sustained connection. Notable past entries include Arauco Hernández's “The Enemies of Pain” (2014) and Daniel Hendler's “Norberto's Deadline” (2010), both featured in the Concorso Cineasti del Presente section. Ana Guevara and Leticia Jorge's “The Guest Room” (2007) and Manolo Nieto's “El lugar del hijo” (Cinéfondation 2008) also graced the festival screens. Furthermore, international co-productions with Uruguayan involvement, such as Bill Condon's “Kiss of the Spider Woman” (2025), starring Diego Luna and Jennifer Lopez, which was a major highlight last year, and Felipe Hirsch's “Severina” (2017), showcased the breadth of Uruguay's cinematic collaborations.

Giona A. Nazzaro, the artistic director of the Locarno Film Festival, articulated the critical importance of this focus on Uruguay, especially in the current global climate. He remarked that at a time when there is an urgent and inevitable need for new voices, turning their attention to Uruguay once again broadens their horizons. The six films in post-production, meticulously evaluated by a panel of international experts, signify a forward-looking commitment to the future of cinema. This commitment beautifully intertwines creativity and vision with a novel, sustainable approach to engaging with the dynamic film industry.

Filmmakers interested in participating can submit their applications through Locarno Pro until May 6, 2026. To qualify for selection, producers must provide a rough cut of at least 60 minutes, irrespective of its current stage in the post-production process. A fundamental requirement is that the principal production company for the film must be based in Uruguay. The final selection, along with the esteemed jury members, will be unveiled in July. A range of valuable in-kind prizes will be awarded to the victorious participants during the Locarno Pro Award Ceremony on August 9th.

The emphasis on Uruguayan cinema at Locarno Pro's First Look program represents a vibrant confluence of artistic vision and strategic industry development. It provides a vital platform for emerging filmmakers to gain international recognition and secure crucial support for their projects. By fostering these connections, the initiative not only celebrates the unique narrative voices of Uruguay but also contributes significantly to the global tapestry of independent cinema. This endeavor underscores the power of international collaboration in shaping the future of filmmaking, encouraging diverse storytelling, and paving the way for a more inclusive cinematic landscape.