CSIFF26 Expands Boundaries of Caribbean Cinema in New York

The Conch Shell International Film Fest (CSIFF26) is set to expand the boundaries of Caribbean cinema this October, inviting New Yorkers to explore stories that go beyond the usual tropes of beaches and palm trees. The festival, which runs from October 9 to 11, 2026, will showcase more than 40 films by Caribbean and Caribbean diaspora filmmakers from 14 different countries. The event is organized by the Conch Shell Productions, Inc., a nonprofit based in Queens.

This year’s theme, “Our Culture Lives in Our Stories,” aims to highlight the diverse narratives that define the Caribbean experience. Festival founder and director Magaly Colimon-Christopher believes that the festival is crucial for building a thriving Caribbean film industry and challenging audiences to see beyond familiar representations of the region.

One of the films featured at CSIFF26 is Bright Sparks, directed by Jamaican writer-lesley Ann Wanliss. The film, which screens on October 10 at 7:00 PM, originally set out to explore themes of hope and possibility. However, Wanliss’s narrative took an unexpected turn as she encountered profound loss during the writing process. The resulting film grapples with grief while also exploring the resilience of the human spirit.

Another film, Isaiah’s Glass Goes Down Easy, directed by Trinidadian-American filmmaker Ria Vieira, offers a unique perspective on the Caribbean experience. Shot in New Hampshire, the film uses genre to explore ancestry and the enduring presence of ancestors in our lives. Vieira’s work challenges the notion that Caribbean cinema must conform to a specific visual image, emphasizing that when Caribbean filmmakers are behind the screen, their films can take on any form.

The festival will take place at the Regal UA Midway in Forest Hills, Queens, with screenings and Q&A sessions scheduled for both Saturday and Sunday. The event will feature a mix of genres and perspectives, offering audiences a rich tapestry of stories that reflect the complex and multifaceted nature of the Caribbean experience.

CSIFF26 is not just about watching films; it’s about engaging with the stories and the people behind them. Colimon-Christopher hopes that the festival will provide a platform for audiences to discover new filmmakers and experience narratives they might not encounter elsewhere. The festival’s programming includes industry panels, filmmaker conversations, and awards, making it a comprehensive event for both film enthusiasts and industry professionals.

With its diverse lineup of films and engaging programming, CSIFF26 is poised to be a significant event in the New York film scene, offering a unique opportunity for audiences to explore the rich and varied stories of the Caribbean.