The Latin America and Spain Film Festival (LASFF) officially opened in Blenheim on Monday, 6 October, marking its 23rd edition nationwide and its third consecutive year in Marlborough.
LASFF is a vibrant cultural celebration dedicated to showcasing contemporary cinema from Latin America and Spain. Through the power of film, the festival embraces the richness and diversity of Spanish and Portuguese-speaking cultures while fostering greater understanding and connection within our communities.
This year’s programme features a carefully curated selection of films from eight participating nations: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Mexico, Peru, and Spain. From powerful documentaries to moving dramas and inspiring animations, audiences are invited to immerse themselves in the stories, languages, and social realities shaping these countries.
The opening ceremony in Blenheim was honoured by the presence of Mariana Koffmann, Consul of Chile in New Zealand, who delivered the official opening and highlighted the strong cultural collaboration between Latin American embassies and the Marlborough Multicultural Centre. On this occasion, audiences enjoyed the screening of Maria, directed by acclaimed Chilean filmmaker Pablo Larraín and starring Academy Award winner Angelina Jolie.
As a non-profit initiative, LASFF extends across Aotearoa with the support of local councils, cultural organisations, academic institutions, and sponsors. Entry to all screenings is free of charge, offering everyone the opportunity to experience this unique cultural journey.
The Blenheim programme continues until Thursday, 16 October. Tickets and full details are available here: https://collections.humanitix.com/latin-america-spain-film-festival-blenheim
Blenheim Screening Schedule 2025
- Chile – Maria – 6 Oct, 5:30pm
- Peru – Hatun Phacqha, The Healing Land – 7 Oct, 6pm
- Brazil – Kobra Self Portrait – 8 Oct, 6pm
- Argentina – Giants of La Mancha – 9 Oct, 5pm
- Spain – Out in the Open – 13 Oct, 6pm
- Cuba – The World of Nelsito – 14 Oct, 6pm
- Mexico – The Promisse – 15 Oct, 6pm
- Colombia – Dear Gentlemen – 16 Oct, 6pm
Opening Ceremony - Gallery of photos by Pablo Gonzalez, click here
