The Isla Verde International Film and Environment Festival of the Caribbean is making waves by putting the climate crisis in the spotlight this year. This article dives into the films, art, and initiatives that make this Caribbean Film Festival a vital platform for raising awareness about environmental issues and enduring living. Learn how this innovative event is using the power of art to inspire action and promote a greener future.
Caribbean Film Festival Opens with Focus on Climate Crisis
Havana – The Isla Verde international Film and Environment Festival of the Caribbean commenced this Sunday, showcasing films and art centered on environmental themes and sustainable living.
April 6, 2025
Opening Night Highlights
The festival, now in its third year, has designated Spain as the guest of honor.The opening night featured the Spanish film Black Butterflies,
a Goya Award-winning animated film for 2025. This film explores the experiences of three women who emigrate due to the escalating climate crisis.
Adding to the cinematic lineup,the Argentine short films Microplastics
and Finnish Dream
were also screened,setting the stage for a festival deeply rooted in environmental consciousness.
Competition Details
A total of 38 films from 18 countries are competing in this year’s festival. The selection includes:
- 10 Feature Films
- 20 Short Films
- 8 Projects in Progress
The jury responsible for evaluating these films comprises notable figures such as Cuban writer Leonardo Padura, Spanish photographer Héctor Garrido, Cuban actress Laura of the UZ, and Cuban filmmakers Arturo Soto and Kiki Álvarez.
Artistic Expressions and Environmental Vision
Beyond cinema, the festival also inaugurated the collective exhibition Of the island to the Moon 2.0.
This exhibition features over 30 artists from Cuba, the Caribbean, Brazil, and Europe, representing disciplines like architecture, design, and visual arts. Their works offer diverse perspectives on:
- Climate change
- Sustainable Development
- Recycling
- Social Inclusion
- The Ethical and Aesthetic Relationship Between Humans and Nature
Musical Climax
The inaugural day culminated with a concert by Cuban musician Alain Pérez and his orchestra, adding a vibrant cultural dimension to the festival’s opening.
festival Director’s vision
Jorge Perugorría, the Cuban actor, director, and artist leading the festival, emphasized its meaning:
“we continue to defend the idea that this festival becomes the coming years, if it is not, in the most important encounter between the science and art of the Caribbean.”
Jorge Perugorría,Festival Director
Broader Program and Environmental Initiatives
The festival’s program includes approximately 20 workshops,conferences,musical performances,dialog sessions,exhibitions,and film screenings. It also features prominent scientists, filmmakers, producers, and artists.
In a tribute to environmental advocacy, the festival will honor Spanish naturalist Félix Rodríguez de la Fuente (1928-1980), renowned for his program Man and Earth,
which championed nature and wildlife conservation.
Continuing its commitment to environmental stewardship, Isla Verde’s agenda includes reforestation activities, beach cleanups, and recycling initiatives. Previous editions have seen the planting of 2,500 pine trees in an area known as the Pinar del Cine.
