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The DIFF team would like to extend a warm thank you to all who were involved with the 2007 festival.  Because of your involvement, we were able to showcase over 35 films, from 13 countries and in eight languages.  This international variety brings insightful storytelling and perspectives from around the globe. 

Screening highlights during the jam-packed week of film, fun and sun included the emotional mental illness exposé "Canvas," the original and playful "Pretendiendo," the heart-warming love story “Bella" and the insightful documentary "Desarollo Humano." 

For more information on all of the films featured at this year’s festival, click here.

This year, we were also blessed to have a special focus on many amazing Spanish language films featured throughout festival, in addition to a handful of short films created by the creative and brilliant children who participated in our Director’s Cut program.  

Celebrities like Manny Perez, Julissa Bermudez, Dominican power couple Dania Ramirez and Jessy Terrero were kind enough to lend a hand and in turn a voice to the lucky kids who took part in this year’s claymation and acting based workshops.

Another sponsor this year, Crocs and Soles United, facilitated an amazing volleyball lesson/game for over 30 children from the local Dominican community. In collaboration with the Elliott Foundation, Crocs donated thousands of recycled shoes to the local DR community. AVP players Jenn Boss and Jake Gibb were also on hand to help with the lessons and the distribution of the shoes. The smiles that those much needed shoes brought to the children’s faces were, without a doubt, an example of our dedication to giving back to the Dominican people. 

We look forward to partnering with Crocs in the future and through the Elliott Foundation we hope to continue to distribute shoes on the North Coast to those who need them the most.

From our morning, afternoon and evening screenings, through the ever-flowing Brugal infused rum drinks, to our celebrity VIP parties, pass holders were never without something amazing to do, see, eat or drink! This year, guests enjoyed many lavish pool-side parties, including one special evening that included a live performance by actor/singer Kate Nauta.

In the midst of celebration and paradise fun, the week also included the chance to hear first-hand knowledge of many intimate facets of the industry from individuals with expert experience. "Pitch, Production, Distribution & Breaking Into The Industry," was hosted by producer Steve Shor and covered unique and tailored distribution tips, depending on the project, for beginning filmmakers. The "Big Name Stars for Small Budget Films" panel was led by producer/writer/director Adam Kassen and actor/producer Mark Kassen of Trigger Street Independent; Kevin Spacey’s independent film company. The brothers also discussed the challenges and rewards of their festival film "The Sasquatch Gang," a comedy starring Justin Long.  Tim Rhys, founder of MovieMaker magazine, hosted a wonderful industry overview panel "The Art & Business of Making Movies."   

Please check our website periodically for updates on our quarterly events early next year and the 2008 festival.  

We wish you all happy, warm and fun-filled holidays and a joyful New Years and we can’t wait to see you next year in the DR!