From Guerillas to Beauty Queens: 5 Must-See Movies at Panama International Film Festival LA

Hoping to shed a light on its burgeoning film industry, Viva Panama Organization (VPO) and NewFilmmakers Los Angeles (NFMLA) have announced the launch of the first annual Panama International Film Festival LA. For its launch, they’ve nabbed Justine Pasek, Miss Universe 2002, who will be at the Inauguration Reception and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.

Taking place in Los Angeles this weekend, the festival will feature works by up-and-coming filmmakers. This year, the films selected tackle the world of beauty pageants, the suppressed history of a key figure in Panamanian history, and the vexing relationship the Central American country has with the United States.

The Panama International Film Festival LA takes place on Saturday, November 21, 2015 at the AT&T Center in Los Angeles.