This short film, produced by Maura Abad and directed by Alberto Rivera, continues to rack up accolades, making an impact on the global short film scene.
Press Office. –
Good stories never die, and this is certainly true of Memento Vivere, the short film produced by Maura Abad and directed by Alberto Rivera and New Rock Cinema, which is reaping success around the world at film festivals in various countries. This time, another accolade has been added to the short but successful run of Memento Vivere, as it has been selected as a finalist to participate in the 2026 Kyoto Cinematica Film Festival.
This festival aims to promote emerging artists, serving as an online platform through which artists, creators, producers, and filmmakers who are just beginning their journey in the world of cinema can screen their works, showcase their creativity, and grow within the entertainment industry. The festival also offers the public a fully immersive online platform so they can enjoy this event from wherever they are.
The Japanese festival features a diverse lineup of films, including feature films, documentaries, animation, and experimental works. Selected artists can also participate in Q&A sessions, roundtable discussions on the future of cinema, masterclasses on filmmaking techniques, and other benefits. In addition to highlighting Japan’s artistic and cinematic heritage, the Kyoto Cinematica Film Festival 2026 is also open to international submissions, which are invited to participate in the event following a rigorous selection process.
The festival’s guidelines state that all selected films will be screened, allowing all filmmakers to present their work to the public. Likewise, all participants will receive certificates and awards, the films will be featured on the festival’s website, and awards will be presented in the categories of Best Actor and Best Director.
This is how Memento Vivere, with its profound story and meticulous production, is making a strong entrance onto Japanese soil to showcase Ecuador’s independent filmmaking, the home country of director Alberto Rivera and the film’s actors, as well as the adopted homeland of Maura Abad, who produced this film and co-wrote the screenplay with Alberto. “Once again, we are very happy to have received this new recognition. Beyond the outcome of the awards, it is another step we are taking to bring our work and our vision as artists, writers, and producers to the whole world. Thank you to our audience for their support and to the Kyoto Cinematica Film Festival 2026”, -Maura said upon knowing the results.
