WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao has been selected as the host of the international short film festival Filmapalooza in 2027, marking a major milestone for the island’s growing film industry.
The announcement was made during the Filmapalooza award ceremony in Lisbon, where a delegation from Curaçao was present. The group included members of the current winning team of the 48 Hour Film Project Curaçao, City Producers Melissa Verboeket and Bert Aengenendt, and Film Commissioner Eloise van Wickeren.
During the event, Curaçao’s representatives participated in workshops, networking sessions, and screenings of more than 150 short films from around the world.
The festival concluded with an awards ceremony, where the top prize went to the Polish film “Diabot,” which will be showcased at the Cannes Film Festival.
Curaçao was represented with the short film “De Oversteek,” created in just 48 hours by Team sunnySide. Team leader Joyce Weert described the experience as a unique opportunity to engage with the international film community.
According to City Producer Melissa Verboeket, participation in Filmapalooza allows local filmmakers to gain insight into international standards and opens new opportunities for growth.
Film Commissioner Van Wickeren called the achievement of bringing Filmapalooza to Curaçao the result of years of effort and a significant step forward for the island’s film sector.
Filmmakers are now being encouraged to participate in the 10th edition of the 48 Hour Film Project Curaçao, scheduled for September 25 to 27, 2026. The winning team will automatically qualify for Filmapalooza 2027, which will take place on Curaçao.