When we launched Havana Glasgow Film Festival in 2015, we had no idea how big a journey lay ahead, until someone said ‘you’re brave!’. Yet thanks to our funders, our team, and all of you, here we are celebrating our 10th Anniversary!
Solidarity and kindness are at the heart of our Festival – values that are needed now more than ever. Cuba’s international solidarity – from training doctors, to countering apartheid from South Africa to Palestine – inspires us to share what we have and not what we have left over, and draw strength from community. That spirit runs through our festival: everyone is welcome, and together we celebrate the joy and power of film and culture.
This year we’re honoured to welcome the Cuban and Vietnamese ambassadors, marking 50 years since Vietnam’s unification. Other highlights include Kim Anno’s moving documentary Quba with SQIFF, special guest the inimitable Mirta Ibarra, Tomas Alea and Santiago Alvarez classics, and the UK premiere of our own film Life is Dance. What better way to celebrate ten years!
Eirene Houston and Hugo Rivalta, Festival Directors
