"Colombian Cinema Comes to Cuba: A Festival of Latin American Flair (and Possibly a Few Questionable Moustaches)"
Ah, Cuba, the land of cigars, communism, and cinematographic art. And what better way to celebrate the latter than with a Colombian Film Festival? I mean, who doesn’t love a good Latin American love story, set against the backdrop of revolution and, presumably, salsa dancing?
As I delved into the press conference, I was struck by the enthusiasm of the speakers. There’s something infectious about people who are passionate about film, isn’t there? Even if they are sporting some rather…interesting…moustaches. (I’m looking at you, Miguel González, 18-year-old Macondo award winner. You’re a talented young chap, but that ‘stache needs some work, mate.)
Now, let’s get down to business. The festival, which runs until November 28, promises to showcase the best of Colombian cinema, with screenings at the Charles Chaplin room, the Patio of the Cinemateca de Cuba, and Cinema 23 and 12. (I do hope they’ve got some comfy seats, because I hear those Cuban cinemas can be a bit…erm… Spartan.)
The Colombian delegation, led by the irrepressible Alexandra Falla, director of the Colombian Film Heritage Foundation, seems thrilled to be sharing their stories with the Cuban public. And why not? After all, as Falla pointed out, "all Latin American stories have a network of common origins and encounters that make us very similar nations." (Although, I’m not sure if that’s a blessing or a curse, considering the state of some of those countries’ economies.)
One of the highlights of the festival promises to be the screening of three restored classics of Colombian silent cinema, which are celebrating their centenary in 2024. "Mother", "Aura or the Violetas", and "The Tragedy of Silence" are all set to be shown, accompanied by live music, no less. (I do hope the pianist has a good supply of coffee, because those silent films can be a bit of a snooze-fest.)
And then, of course, there’s the obligatory nod to animated films. Juan Padrón’s "Elpidio Valdés" shorts are being shown, complete with their own brand of Latin American flair. I’m not sure what to make of the fact that they’re described as "liberating deeds of our people", but I’m sure it’ll all become clear once I’ve had a few Cuban cigars and a strong coffee.
All joking aside, this festival promises to be a fantastic celebration of Latin American cinema, and I’m sure the Cuban public will lap it up. After all, who doesn’t love a good underdog story, set against the backdrop of revolution and social change? It’s like a cinematic version of a Gabriel García Márquez novel, minus the magical realism and plus a few more explosions.
So, if you’re in Cuba between now and November 28, do pop along to the festival and sample some of the best that Colombian cinema has to offer. And if you’re not, well, you can always just watch the films online, but where’s the fun in that?
"Colombian Film Festival: Because Who Doesn’t Love a Good Latin American Love Story?"
Dates: Now until November 28
Locations: Charles Chaplin room, Patio of the Cinemateca de Cuba, Cinema 23 and 12
Films: A selection of Colombian classics, including "Mother", "Aura or the Violetas", and "The Tragedy of Silence", plus animated shorts and live music.
Cuban Cigars: Optional, but highly recommended.
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A pivotal press conference took place this Tuesday at the Cuban Institute of Cinematographic Art and Industry’s (Icaic) headquarters, featuring esteemed attendees including Icaic’s president, Alexis Triana, and the director of the Colombian Film Heritage Foundation, Alexandra Falla.
Falla kicked off the event by highlighting the delivery of meticulously restored film material from Colombia to Icaic, including two captivating animated shorts by renowned director Juan Padrón, specifically “Elpidio Valdés.” She also presented the documentary “Pan American Games,” a compelling summary of the 1971 sporting event held in Cali, masterfully directed by Jorge Fraga.
The exhibit also showcased three restored Colombian silent cinema classics, each approaching its 100-year anniversary in 2024: “Mother,” “Aura or the Violetas,” and “The Tragedy of Silence.” These cinematic treasures promise to captivate the Cuban audience with their timeless storytelling and historical significance.
The press conference welcomed a host of directors, producers, and actors from the featured films, including 18-year-old Miguel González, the talented protagonist of the film “The Other Son,” currently enthralling audiences in theaters. González’s notable performance earned him the prestigious Macondo award for Best Actor, presented by the Colombian Film Academy, making him the youngest recipient of this honor, as proudly announced by Falla.
Falla reflected on the significance of presenting the first product of the alliance between Colombia and Icaic, forged just a few months prior, as a truly enriching experience that fills her with pride. She emphasized that the shared cultural heritage and historical experiences of Latin American nations foster a profound sense of unity and similarity among them.
The Colombian delegation’s participation in the festival serves as a prime example of how liberating stories and the triumphs of their people can be brought to life through the art of animation, as seen in the beloved character of Elpidio Valdés. By sharing these narratives, the festival aims to kindle a sense of shared identity and cultural appreciation between Colombia and Cuba.
The highly anticipated Colombian Film Festival will run until November 28, with screenings taking place at esteemed venues such as the Charles Chaplin room, the Patio of the Cinemateca de Cuba, and Cinema 23 and 12. This cinematic celebration promises to showcase the best of Colombia’s seventh art, while fostering a rich cultural exchange with Cuba.
Throughout the festival, members of the Colombian delegation will engage with the public, sharing their valuable insights and perspectives on the evolution and future of their national cinematography, providing a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and growth.
