The JP2IFF first debuted on the evening of October 29th, 2009 in beautiful Miami, FL, opening its doors to filmmakers and audiences from around the globe. The proof of the festival’s success was clearly visible when audiences flocked to watch films that inspired and questioned our existence. Filmmakers had the chance to connect with people as their work was finally accessible to a public who normally wouldn’t have an opportunity to encounter such faith-filled work. By its final night, the festival had over 2,500 people from different faiths, cultures, and backgrounds in attendance—all who went home each night with faces radiating with joy.

We were not surprised when our 2011 festival doubled in occupancy and filmmaker attendance from our innaugural year. Since 2009 the JP2IFF has seen some of its "Official Selections" pick up distribution and reach audiences worldwide. Films such as, The Mighty Macs, The Human Experience, The 13th Day, The Last Summit, No Greater Love, Strong Bodies Fight, Out of the Darkness, St. Bernadette of Lourdes, Reconciliation, The Calling, and many more have been released commercially.