Closer Than Yesterday | Best Feature Documentary Winner | PAMA 2025

Two young San Francisco Ballet dancers compete on the world stage at the Helsinki International Ballet Competition.
"Closer Than Yesterday" is an intimate documentary that offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the journey of two young San Francisco Ballet dancers as they prepare for the Helsinki International Ballet Competition. The film follows Carmela Mayo, who took time during the COVID-19 pandemic to undergo surgery for a back injury, making the competition a significant milestone for her comeback. Coached by Principal Dancer Tiit Helimets, she partners with Esteban Cuadrado and their rigorous preparations commence. However, they encounter numerous challenges due to the pandemic, and their path takes unexpected twists even before they set foot on the competition stage.