The unmissable award-winning film Yuli was inspired by the life of Carlos Acosta, one of the greatest dancers in Cuban ballet history. Directed by Iciar Bollaín with Paul Laverty as script writer, the film is noted for its music, cinematography and outstanding choreography. The film begins as Carlos, nicknamed Yuli by his father, is rebelling against school and breakdancing on the street until he is pushed by his father to attend the National Ballet School. This truly exceptional film traces some of Carlos’s setbacks and achievements, but also profiles the importance within Cuban education of opportunities for all. The cast includes Carlos himself and other Cuban actors and dancers. As Acosta commented when the film was released, the story captures “the triumph of a humble Cuban family, that can serve as a mirror for all Cubans who on a daily basis confront adversities.”
Screen Cuba presents: Yuli The Carlos Acosta Story| Icíar Bollaín| Spain Cuba Germany UK 2018, Modern Films | 1h55m | Spanish with English subtitles |15 |
BOOK TICKETS 6pm, Saturday 16 March 2024 at The Garden Cinema.
CAST Carlos Acosta, Keyvin Martínez, Edilson Manuel Olbera Núñez
AWARDS
2019, The Platino Awards for Iberoamerican Cinema, winner, Best Original Music
2019, Minsk International Film Festival “Listapad”, winner, Audience Award, Best Feature Film
2019, Nantes Spanish Film Festival, winner, Audience Award, Best Film
2018, San Sebastián International Film Festival, winner, Jury Prize, Best Screenplay
SCREEN CUBA, 15-28 March 2026, LONDON & BEYOND 