Palm Springs International Film Festival: “It Would Be Night in Caracas” Shines

With the 37th Palm Springs International Film Festival coming to a close, the closing night brought both celebration and recognition for world cinema — including a special nod to the powerful Mexican-Venezuelan film It Would Be Night in Caracas. The thriller, co-directed by Mariana Rondón and Marité Ugás, received an Ibero-American Special Mention from the festival jury, honoring its bold storytelling and emotional impact.

It Would Be Night in Caracas (original title: Aún es de noche en Caracas) tells the gripping story of Adelaida, portrayed by Natalia Reyes, a woman trapped in the chaos of Caracas during the 2017 protests. When her home is overtaken by regime loyalists, she is forced into hiding and must reshape her identity to survive the city’s turmoil.

As festival attendees awaited the awards announcement Sunday night, Manny the Movie Guy, known for his enthusiastic and accessible film coverage, hailed the film as a “must-see of the festival,” emphasizing its relevance in today’s political climate and celebrating Ugás’s contribution to its visceral storytelling.

In an exclusive interview with director Marité Ugás, Manny asked what drew her to this co-directing role on such an intense and intimate story. Ugás shared that her decision stemmed from a deep connection to the source material and the universality of Adelaida’s fight for survival. “This story isn’t just about a city in crisis,” Ugás told Manny. “It’s about the endurance of the human spirit when everything familiar collapses. We wanted audiences to feel that tension, that emotional weight — but also that hope that even in darkness, people find ways to persist.” — Marité Ugás.

Manny also asked Ugás about the collaborative experience with co-director Mariana Rondón. Ugás explained that their shared vision allowed them to balance the political backdrop with intimate character moments, crafting a film that feels both urgent and deeply personal.

“Mariana and I brought different strengths to the project. She with her narrative sensitivity, and I with my visual approach. Together, we wanted to create a world that felt lived-in and real, where every choice carries consequence.” — Marité Ugás

The recognition in Palm Springs comes after the film’s earlier festival appearances, including screenings at major international events such as the Venice International Film Festival.

Manny closed the interview by encouraging viewers to watch It Would Be Night in Caracas, saying, “This is the kind of film that stays with you — its courage, its humanity, and its refusal to turn away from difficult truths.” It Would Be Night in Caracas continues to build momentum and is slated for additional North American screenings later this year.