Havana, Cuba — December 14, 2025. The SIGNIS Jury at the 46th International Festival of New Latin American Cinema awarded its jury prize to A Poet, directed by Colombian filmmaker Simón Mesa Soto. The decision recognizes the film’s artistic merit, emotional impact, and engagement with social realities.
The jury praised the film’s cinematic craft, noting its effective use of humor and strong ensemble performances. In their statement, jury members described A Poet as a work that connects universal themes with the specific context of contemporary Latin America. The film depicts a world shaped by economic struggle, deception, and material pressures while maintaining focus on its protagonist’s determination.
A Poet centers on a character who refuses to abandon his aspirations despite poverty and disillusionment. This personal journey resonated strongly with both audiences and jury members. The SIGNIS panel noted how the protagonist’s persistence transforms the film into an examination of human resilience, demonstrating how art and ambition can endure under challenging circumstances.
“His struggle brings us light, hope, redemption, and resilience,” the jury stated, emphasizing the film’s ability to engage viewers emotionally while offering a sense of possibility.
The 2025 SIGNIS Jury included Laysun Araújo (Cuba), Arístides O’Farrill (Cuba), and Carlos Minondo (Spain, President).