Regional film festivals have succeeded in recognizing and promoting regional films and promoting regional connections.[1] The first regular showcase for local films in Central America was Costa Rica’s Filmmaking and Video Showcase, which lasted from 1992 to 2012.[2] In 2012, it became the International Film Festival San José Peace on Earth, and included both national and international films for the first time.[3] In 2015, it expanded into the Costa Rican International Film Festival, and grew to show 73 films in 2017.[9] The festival shows films in competition for prizes in national, regional, and international categories and provides help for projects underway.[3] The Icaro Central American Film Festival has promoted Central American film regionally and internationally.[7] Since 2004, the festival's touring showcase, known as Muestra Ícaro, has been exhibited in every Central American country and, recently, to Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the US.[7]