The White Town of the Crabs is preparing for another edition of its most universal festival. From July 14th to 18th, Gibara will host the twentieth edition of the International Poor Film Festival. An event that, true to its alternative spirit, will bring together nearly 20 countries. From Central Asia to the Caribbean, solidifying its position as a cultural bridge without borders.
In this anniversary edition, the program reaffirms the inclusive and diverse nature of the event. Rafael Grillo, a member of the Organizing Committee, highlighted the significant geographical representation. Which includes films from Iran, India, Palestine, Morocco, Curaçao, European nations, and a broad selection from Latin America.
One of the most notable new additions will be the presence of Kyrgyz cinema, with the film “Mergen,” by Chingiz Narinov. Winner of the Bishkek International Film Festival, whose screening will mark a milestone in the festival’s history.
The feature film section will include high-caliber works such as the Iranian film “Rainbow Stories”. By Saleh Alavizadeh which addresses child abuse; the Indian film “Feminist Fatima” by Fasil Muhammed. The Moroccan film “Casablanca/Dakar” by Ahmed Boulane. As well as the Mexican films “The Call” by Pablo A. Tonatiuh and “A Roof Without a Sky”. By Diego Hernández, along with the Venezuelan film “Thorn” by Daniel Poler.
The short film section is equally impressive, with titles reflecting diverse realities from Palestine (Zhara). Iran (Colored Window), Curaçao (On the Eve), and Honduras (Bucket). In constant dialogue with productions from Argentina, Mexico, Spain, and a wide representation of Cuban filmmakers.
Also the feature-length documentary category also promises debate and emotion with the British film “Independent Candidate” (Teilo Vellacott). The French film “Wanderer” (Benoit Maestre), the Brazilian film “When Girls Grow Up” (Neli Mombelli). And the Spanish film “Lorca in Havana” (José Antonio Torres and Antonio Manuel), alongside Cuban productions. In the short film format, foreign perspectives on Cuba stand out. Such as “Nommal” (Charles Abelmann, United States) and “The Most Wonderful Thing” (Mauricio Centurión, Argentina).
Animation, meanwhile, will have a special flavor, with Brazil leading the way. Presenting four works in competition within a selection that also includes entries from Mexico, Colombia, Chile, Peru, Argentina, and Spain.
The festival is not just about the screen. The program includes exhibitions, theoretical forums, and artistic presentations that enrich the cultural experience. Among the theoretical sessions, highlights include the panel “Community Filming: Co-designing the Tourism Gibara Deserves” and the talk “Solás’s Memory: Two Projects in Progress,” a tribute to the event’s founder, Humberto Solás.
The visual arts will also be featured with the opening of exhibitions such as “From Vallecillo to Gibara,” “The Last Forest,” by Amanda Tamayo and Daliana Seoanne. A poster tribute to Alfredo Guevara on his centenary, courtesy of the CartelON Project. Music, theater, and dance will complement the Gibara evenings with concerts. Performances by the CODANZA company, and the play “Open Couple” by Teatro Pálpito.
Rafael Grillo acknowledged that, while the 2026 edition might not reach the level of previous years in some aspects due to the country’s current situation. The essence of the Festival remains intact in its film programming. Guaranteeing public interest and the event’s continued relevance.
From the opening gala on July 14th in Calixto García Park, with the screening of *Neurótica Anónima*. To the grand closing ceremony with the awards presentation and a performance by La Original de Manzanillo. Gibara is preparing to dream big at its grand celebration of the seventh art.
By: Daimy Peña Guillén
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