Last Friday, the iconic Yara Theater was filled to the brim for the global premiere of two episodes from the series "One Hundred Years of Solitude," adapted from Gabriel García Márquez's famed novel. This event was a highlight of the 45th edition of the International Festival of New Latin American Cinema.
Fabiola López, a TeleSUR correspondent based in Cuba, shared videos on the social media platform X, capturing the vibrant atmosphere outside the theater just before the screening. Long lines and palpable excitement were evident as attendees eagerly awaited what was described by López as the arrival of "magical realism" in Havana, marking one of the festival's most anticipated moments. The new Netflix production, paradoxically unavailable in Cuba, has already stirred significant interest.
Actress Jacqueline Arenal, part of the series cast, expressed her pride on Instagram about being involved in this adaptation of a Latin American literary classic: “This wonderful story premieres on December 11 exclusively on Netflix. Being part of ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’ is an infinite privilege and honor,” she wrote.
Reflecting on the Havana premiere, Arenal shared on Instagram: “An exciting debut of the first two episodes of ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’ took place at the Yara Theater on December 6, within the Havana Festival of New Latin American Cinema. We are on the cusp of the first season’s release, this dream come true, on December 11, only on Netflix!”
According to AP, the premiere in Havana, held at one of the capital's largest theaters, featured two screenings: the first for special guests and the second open to the general public. The event saw a massive turnout of young people, highlighting the strong interest in this literary adaptation.
The premiere was a tribute to Gabriel García Márquez, a cinema enthusiast who, in addition to his literary legacy, played a pivotal role in establishing the New Latin American Cinema Festival.
Francisco Ramos, Netflix's Vice President of Content, informed EFE that while Cubans can access the platform via profiles created abroad, the company must adhere to current legal restrictions due to U.S. sanctions on Cuba, limiting direct account creation in the country. Ramos emphasized Netflix's commitment to reaching audiences worldwide, including Cuba, though local circumstances dictate the platform's reach.
Discussing García Márquez's connection to Cuba, Ramos noted that screening "One Hundred Years of Solitude" in Havana holds special significance, given the author's close ties to the island and the cultural connection between Colombia's Caribbean coast and Cuba. He highlighted that both the novel and the series embody a deeply Caribbean essence.
García Márquez (1927-2014) had a longstanding relationship with Cuba and its film industry, even presiding over the Havana-based Foundation of New Latin American Cinema. This series' premiere aligns with the International Festival of New Latin American Cinema, which this year will showcase 110 films from 42 countries, including Cuba, Mexico, Venezuela, Argentina, and Spain, as reported by EFE.
The festival, first held on December 3, 1979, was conceived as a continuation of earlier cinematic gatherings in Viña del Mar, Mérida, and Caracas, establishing itself as a cornerstone event for the region's film industry.
Cultural Impact of "One Hundred Years of Solitude" in Cuba
Why is the premiere of "One Hundred Years of Solitude" significant in Havana?
The premiere is significant due to Gabriel García Márquez's strong ties to Cuba and the cultural connection between Colombia's and Cuba's Caribbean regions. It marks a celebration of his literary legacy and his influence on the Latin American film industry.
How can Cubans access Netflix despite restrictions?
Cubans can access Netflix using accounts created outside the country, as the platform must comply with U.S. sanctions that prevent direct account creation from Cuba.
What role did García Márquez play in the New Latin American Cinema Festival?
García Márquez was instrumental in founding the festival, contributing to its establishment as a major event for showcasing Latin American cinema. His passion for film was evident in his efforts to support the festival's growth and influence.