The Cuban film Malecón is set to premiere this Thursday at the iconic Yara cinema in Havana, as announced by the Cuban Institute of Cinematographic Art and Industry (ICAIC) alongside members of the film's team during a press conference held on Wednesday.
This marks the first feature film by Spanish filmmaker Carlos Larrazábal, a collaboration between Cuba, Spain, and the United States that has already toured international film festivals before reaching the screens in the Cuban capital.
Currently residing in Los Angeles, Larrazábal was unable to attend the announcement in person and instead sent a message from the city.
"I am thrilled that it is finally arriving at Yara cinema. I hope it is received with the same affection with which we made it," expressed the director to the press and ICAIC members.
The Filmmaker's Connection to Cuba
Larrazábal's connection to Cuba—a nation facing a profound crisis across all sectors—began in 2005 when he first traveled to the island to study at the International Film and Television School in San Antonio de los Baños.
It was during this time that he conceived the project: "Ever since, Malecón has been on my mind," he recalled.
Filmed entirely in Havana, the movie follows Elvis, a teenager who kills his stepfather in defense of his mother, who dies before his eyes during the scuffle, and is sentenced to ten years in prison.
Upon reentering society, he finds that his high school sweetheart is now married to the most powerful thug in the neighborhood, and his former partner in crime has come out as gay and works as a prostitute.
Exploring the Theme of Emigration
The film's title borrows from the famous Havana promenade, described in the synopsis as "the wall that separates the sea from the city, witness to countless emigration stories."
The central theme revolves around the tension between staying and leaving: "The film presents both perspectives: that of those who choose to stay, with all it entails, and those who decide to leave, leaving everything behind—a decision that is never easy," explained Larrazábal.
The cast includes César Domínguez—known for his work in Santa y Andrés and Yuli—as Elvis, alongside Camila Rodhes, Omar Rolando, Yordanka Ariosa, and Luis Alberto García as the abusive stepfather.
García, one of Cuba's most celebrated actors, starred in landmark films such as Clandestinos and La vida es silbar, and in December 2025, publicly questioned censorship at the Havana Film Festival.
International Recognition and Future Screenings
Before arriving in the Cuban capital, Malecón competed in the official section of the 42nd Miami International Film Festival and was selected for the Latin American Feature Film Competition at the Mar del Plata Festival in Argentina in November 2025. During that presentation, Larrazábal and producer Jaime Otero Romani emphasized that "the entire team was Cuban."
The film's next international destination will be the Seville Festival, where it is scheduled to be screened in November 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions about 'Malecón'
What is the central theme of the film 'Malecón'?
The central theme of 'Malecón' is the tension between staying in Cuba and leaving, exploring the difficult decisions people face regarding emigration.
Who stars in 'Malecón'?
The film stars César Domínguez as Elvis, with Camila Rodhes, Omar Rolando, Yordanka Ariosa, and Luis Alberto García also featuring prominently.
Where was 'Malecón' filmed?
'Malecón' was filmed entirely in Havana, Cuba.