Programs and Events

Film Festival Celebrates Baseball

September 29-October 3, 2003

At the Film Festival's Inauguration Night, Ambassador Watt greets Legislator Jose Luis Varela and Legislator and President of the Federación Panameña de Béisbol, Franz Wever.

The U.S. Embassy launched a year-long series of baseball film showings beginning with a week-long film festival. This tribute to baseball coincides with both the 100th anniversary of the World Series and of course the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Panama.

Co-sponsored by the Federación Panameña de Béisbol, this festival has both older classics and newer films that celebrate the love of baseball, are also celebrating the long-lasting friendship between the United States and Panama and our shared interests: "America's Pastime" is also "Panama's Pastime."

The movies selected for this festival showcase individuals who overcome great challenges to achieve their goals. However, none of them could have been successful without the support of their team. Some of the films illustrate those who face prejudice and discrimination, but through discipline, and their love of the game, they become a source of pride and inspiration.

The Embassy will host future film festivals during the following year and throughout Panama. Planned locations include Colon and Herrera.