Each year, the AFI Silver Theater & Cultural Center hosts the Latin American Film Festival. Now in its 37th year, the festival showcases Latin American cinema, with films from across Latin America as well as Spain and Portugal. Select screenings feature opportunities to hear from filmmakers and enjoy special events and embassy-hosted receptions.
When is the festival?
September 16, 2026-October 7, 2026
Where is it?
The AFI Silver Theater & Cultural Center
8633 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, MD 20910
How many films are included?
More than 41 films from more than 21 countries
As the temperatures cool, head indoors to explore the films, stories and cultures celebrated at the Latin American Film Festival at the AFI Silver Theatre & Cultural Center.
The AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center is a state-of-the-art moving-image exhibition, education and cultural center in downtown Silver Spring. The historic Art Deco theater is complemented by two stadium-style theaters, offering visitors an opportunity to experience films from around the world on the big screen.
The festival celebrates Ibero-American cultural connections during National Hispanic Heritage Month.
The opening movie for the festival is THE MATCH (EL PARTIDO). Directed by Juan Cabral and Santiago Franco, the film recounts the infamous 1986 World Cup match between Argentina and England, when Diego Maradona scored his controversial “Hand of God” goal. Using rare archival footage, narration by footballers Gary Lineker and Jorge Valdano, and new testimonials from players who were on the pitch that fateful day, the film offers an exhilarating look at one of soccer’s most legendary matches. Approximate running time: 91 minutes. After the film, stay for a post-screening reception sponsored by the Embassy of Argentina.
PERROS is one of the special presentation films at AFI Silver. Directed by Gerardo Minutti, the film delves into the complex dynamics of human connection and isolation within a tightly wound drama set in Uruguay. As shifting loyalties and buried secrets surface, the story examines tension, trust, and resilience against the backdrop of an unforgiving environment. The film received high acclaim across the international festival circuit. Approximate running time is 95 minutes. After the film, stay for a post-screening reception sponsored by the Embassy of Uruguay.
The closing movie of the festival is BITTER CHRISTMAS (AMARGA NAVIDAD). Directed by Spanish auteur Pedro Almodóvar, the film follows parallel stories involving filmmakers as they explore the relationship between fiction and reality. Featuring eye-catching costumes and interiors and a sizzling performance by Rossy de Palma, the film offers a distinctive piece of autofiction from one of Spain’s most celebrated filmmakers. Approximate running time is 111 minutes.
Make it a getaway weekend! Stay at the Courtyard by Marriott Silver Spring Downtown Hotel or the DoubleTree by Hilton Silver Spring. Grab a bite to eat at Miss Toya’s Creole House, La Malinche Spanish and Mexican Tapas, or McGinty’s Public House. Spend some time shopping at Ellsworth Place or exploring the shops at Downtown Silver Spring.
