The iconic Yara cinema was packed last Friday for the world premiere of two episodes of the series "One Hundred Years of Solitude," based on the renowned work by Gabriel García Márquez, as part of the 45th edition of the International Festival of New Latin American Cinema.
Fabiola López, TeleSUR correspondent in Cuba, shared some videos on social media platform X showing the exterior of the cinema moments before the screening, where long lines and an atmosphere of excitement among the attendees could be seen.
"Magical realism arrives in Havana with one of the most anticipated moments of the film festival," López remarked about the world premiere of Netflix's new production, a streaming platform that, paradoxically, does not operate in Cuba.
Actress Jacqueline Arenal, who is part of the series cast, expressed her pride in participating in this adaptation of the classic Latin American literature on Instagram: “This wonderful story premieres on December 11, exclusively on Netflix. Being a part of ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’ is an infinite privilege and honor,” she wrote.
Regarding the premiere in Havana, the actress shared on Instagram: "Exciting premiere on December 6 of the first two episodes of One Hundred Years of Solitude at the Yara Cinema, as part of the Festival of New Latin American Cinema in Havana. We are just days away from the premiere of the first season of this dream come true on December 11, exclusively on Netflix!"
According to the AP agency, the premiere of the series in Havana, held at one of the largest cinemas in the capital, featured two screenings: the first was reserved for special guests, while the second was open to the general public.
Additionally, the massive influx of young people was equally impressive, reflecting the great interest sparked by the adaptation of the literary classic.
The premiere was a tribute to Gabriel García Márquez, a passionate film enthusiast who, in addition to his literary legacy, played a key role in the creation of the Latin American New Cinema Festival, it was noted.
Francisco Ramos, Vice President of Content at Netflix, pointed out to the EFE agency that while Cubans can access the platform from the island using profiles created abroad, the company must adhere to existing legal restrictions related to U.S. sanctions against Cuba, which limits the ability to open accounts directly from the country.
The executive of the video-on-demand platform for Latin America explained that Netflix, which has been operating in the region since 2015, aims to comply with the laws and regulations of each country.
"Our goal is to reach everyone, including Cuba, but the circumstances of each country determine the possibilities," he pointed out, emphasizing the company's commitment to audience diversity in the region.
Regarding the relationship between Gabriel García Márquez and Cuba, Ramos emphasized 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 Colombian and Cuban Caribbean.
He underscored that the book, both in its literary version and in the series, is a deeply Caribbean work, infused with a unique flavor and essence of the region.
García Márquez (1927-2014) maintained a close relationship with Cuba and its cinema for many years, even going so far as to preside over the Foundation of New Latin American Cinema, based in Havana.
In this context, the premiere of the series takes place within the framework of the International Festival of New Latin American Cinema, which this year will showcase a total of 110 films from 42 countries over a span of ten days, including Cuba, Mexico, Venezuela, Argentina, and Spain, EFE reported.
The festival, which held its first edition on December 3, 1979, was conceived as a continuation of previous film gatherings held in Viña del Mar, Mérida, and Caracas, establishing itself as a key event for cinema in the region.
Frequently asked questions about the premiere of "One Hundred Years of Solitude" in Havana.
In what context did the premiere of "One Hundred Years of Solitude" take place in Havana?
The premiere of the first two episodes of the series "One Hundred Years of Solitude" took place at the Yara cinema in Havana, as part of the 45th edition of the International Festival of New Latin American Cinema. This event honors Gabriel García Márquez and his close connection to Cuba. The series is a production of Netflix, which does not operate officially in Cuba, adding a layer of symbolism to the occasion.
Why is the premiere of "One Hundred Years of Solitude" in Cuba significant?
The premiere is significant due to Gabriel García Márquez's deep connection with Cuba, where he actively participated in the creation of the Latin American New Cinema Festival and the Foundation of New Latin American Cinema. The screening in Havana highlights the cultural bond and shared Caribbean heritage between Colombia and Cuba.
How could Cubans watch the series if Netflix does not officially operate in Cuba?
Although Netflix does not officially operate in Cuba due to legal restrictions, Cubans can access the platform using profiles created abroad. The premiere at the Yara cinema allowed Cubans to enjoy the series before its global release on Netflix.
What challenges does Netflix face in operating in Cuba?
Netflix faces challenges operating in Cuba due to U.S. sanctions that limit the ability to open accounts from the island. Legal restrictions and current technological conditions hinder an official operation of the platform in Cuba.
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