The Havana Film Festival New York (HFFNY) is an internationally recognized film festival celebrating Latin American cinema. In its 24th anniversary the Festival features over 30 films that demonstrate the richness of Latin American culture and its effects on global filmmaking, including NY, US and World Premieres of contemporary cinema from the region; award-winning documentaries that explore iconic Latinx literary, cinematic, and musical figures; and retrospectives of remastered classic films that have left an indelible mark on cinematic production around the world. Special events include panels on alternative film markets and indie filmmaking in the U.S. and Latin America, presentations and masterclasses by some of Latin America’s most celebrated artistic figures, roundtable discussions with industry professionals, networking receptions, parties, and more!
Schedule of Events:
2:00 PM - 4:20 PM: Una Pelea Cubana Contra Los Demonios / A Cuban Fight Against Demons
Part of Laughing through Rebellion: The Cine Libre of Tomás Gutiérrez Alea
A showcase of six iconic films, newly restored by the Academy Film Archive and presented in collaboration with the Cohen Film Collection
Film is subtitled in English and will be preceded by an introduction by Luciano Castillo, Director of the Cuban Film Archive (Cinemateca de Cuba)
Una Pelea Cubana Contra Los Demonios / A Cuban Fight Against Demons
Tomás Gutiérrez Alea | Cuba | Fiction | 1972 | 130 min
This film offers a compelling examination of political repression and resistance in Cuba during the 18th century. Inspired by historical events, it follows the journey of a group of slaves who rebel against their Spanish masters, seeking freedom and justice. Through vivid imagery and compelling characters, Alea confronts the brutal realities of slavery and colonialism while celebrating the spirit of rebellion and defiance. "A Fight Against Demons" stands as a testament to Alea's unwavering commitment to social justice and human dignity.
6:00 PM - 11:30 PM: Closing Night Film + After-Party: Igualada
Juan Mejia Botero | Colombia-USA-Mexico | Documentary | 2024 | 81 min | Special Presentation
Followed by Q&A with film producer Juan Yepes
Tickets also include entrance into HFFNY's Closing Night After-Party. For screening-only tickets please see the Closing Night Encore Screening at 8:30PM
Afro-Colombian activist Francia Márquez transforms a derogatory term, "Igualada," into a symbol of rights defiance. Her presidential campaign inspires a nation to dream of a more equitable future, challenging societal norms. IGUALADA is a David and Goliath story. Thanks to close to 30 hours of footage shot with Francia between 2009 and 2011, the film also shows that Francia’s fight did not begin with the elections.
Awards / Festivals:
World Premiere Sundance Film Festival 2024
8:30 PM – 10:00 PM: Closing Night Encore Screening : Igualada
Juan Mejia Botero | Colombia-USA-Mexico | Documentary | 2024 | 81 min | Special Presentation
Tickets are for screening only. For tickets that include HFFNY's Closing Night Ceremony, Screening, Q&A + After-Party please see the Closing Night Screening at 6:00PM
Afro-Colombian activist Francia Márquez transforms a derogatory term, "Igualada," into a symbol of rights defiance. Her presidential campaign inspires a nation to dream of a more equitable future, challenging societal norms. IGUALADA is a David and Goliath story. Thanks to close to 30 hours of footage shot with Francia between 2009 and 2011, the film also shows that Francia’s fight did not begin with the elections.
Awards / Festivals:
World Premiere Sundance Film Festival 2024
