The First Look program at Locarno Pro, which is part of the Locarno Film Festival’s industry arm, will show six Uruguayan feature films that are still in post-production for the 15th edition in 2026. This program runs from August 5 to 15 during the 79th Locarno Film Festival. It connects producers with sales agents, buyers, festival programmers, and post-production funds. Uruguay’s growing presence at international festivals is shown by its work with ACAU (Agencia Cine y el Audiovisual del Uruguay).
Uruguay’s choice shows that it is becoming more involved with Locarno. Past entries include Arauco Hernández’s “Enemies of Pain” (2014) and co-productions like Bill Condon’s “Kiss of the Spider Woman” (2025). Giona A. Nazzaro, the artistic director, said that the six films show a commitment to the future of cinema and the need for new voices. Vincent Duff, the director of Locarno Pro, said that First Look helps new filmmakers build their careers around the world.
Producers can send in Uruguayan-led projects with at least 30 minutes of footage by May 6, 2026. The jury will choose the films in July, and the winners will be announced on August 9. Gella Pittaluga, president of ACAU, called it a turning point for the diversity and co-production potential of Uruguayan cinema in the Ibero-American landscape. This focus makes Uruguay stand out more as the demand for arthouse content grows around the world.
