Bolivian Cinematheque Showcases Restored Film Treasures in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz de la Sierra is set to host a special cinematic event, 'Discovering Treasures of the Bolivian Cinematheque,' offering a unique glimpse into the country's film history. From August 26 to August 28, the Cinematheque Boliviana, in collaboration with Londra Films, the Association of Filmmakers of Santa Cruz (Ascinescz), and Aecid, will present a curated selection of short films.

The screenings, held at the auditorium of the Spanish Cooperation Training Center - Aecid, will be free of charge and begin at 7:30 PM. The program includes restored, digitized, and previously unreleased short films drawn from Bolivia's rich audiovisual archive. This initiative is particularly significant as it marks the 50th anniversary of the Cinematheque Boliviana, an institution dedicated to preserving the nation's film heritage.

Gerardo Guerra, director of Londra Films and a board member of the Cinematheque Boliviana, explained that the event aims to connect the Cinematheque's role over five decades with regional audiences, specifically in Santa Cruz. He highlighted the importance of showcasing the processes of cataloging, restoration, and digitization undertaken by the Cinematheque.

Many of the films to be exhibited were preserved for years on 16mm and 35mm film rolls, residing in both the institution's archives and private collections. The digitization process now makes these materials accessible for exhibition, allowing new audiences to discover images that have been out of circulation for decades. The selection spans various eras and themes, with several titles having a direct connection to Santa Cruz, making the event especially relevant ahead of the region's anniversary celebrations.