HFFNY is back—and Opening Night is not to be missed!

The festival opens with the New York Premiere of It Would Be Night in Caracas (Aún es de Noche en Caracas), directed by Mariana Rondón and Marité Ugás.

From the directors of Pelo Malo and El Chico que Miente, comes this gripping tale of survival and displacement set against the backdrop of Venezuela’s 2017 protests.

From May 1–7, 2026, the 26th Havana Film Festival New York brings you 30+ powerful films, kicking off with a red-carpet Opening Night premiere that promises drama, talent, and an electric start to the festival.

OPENING NIGHT:

It Would Be Night in Caracas | Aun es de Noche en Caracas

Friday, May 1 | 6:00 PM

DGA New York Theater

Based on the novel by Karina Sainz Borgo and produced by Edgar Ramírez, this gripping and exciting thriller follows Adelaida (Natalia Reyes) as she returns home during Venezuela’s 2017 protests, only to find her life overtaken by violence and displacement.

A powerful and intimate portrait of survival, the film has earned multiple international awards, including honors at the Huelva Latin American Film Festival and the Palm Springs International Film Festival.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

Cinema of Belonging: Jewish Stories from Latin America

A compelling selection of films from Brazil, Argentina, Cuba, and Colombia exploring migration, memory, and identity, accompanied by a special panel discussion.

Latin Beats on Screen: From Tango & Salsa to Hip-Hop & Flamenco

A vibrant program where music and dance become forms of resistance and cultural expression, celebrating artists who redefine identity through rhythm and storytelling.

Where Cinema Begins: Honoring EICTV & FUC

A tribute to two of Latin America’s most influential film schools—EICTV (Cuba) and FUC (Buenos Aires)—including a special homage to Manuel Antín with a screening of Circe, based on a story by Julio Cortázar.