Film Independent Members, you and a guest are invited to watch Esta Isla (This Island) in the Film Independent Presents Online Screening Room, powered by Vision Media, followed by a pre-recorded conversation with writer/directors Cristian Carretero and Lorraine Jones moderated by Ángel Manuel Soto (director/screenwriter/producer).

A deeply personal and poignant portrait of the Puerto Rican experience that dives into the complexities of identity, resilience and colonial legacy, Esta Isla (This Island) is set in a coastal Puerto Rican town where teenager Bebo and his brother turn to crime to survive. When a deal goes bad, Bebo escapes with Lola, a wealthy runaway. As they flee through the island’s fading interior, violence closes in, forcing Bebo to confront his past and choose between redemption or the sea.

The film had its world premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival, where it was honored with Best Cinematography, Best New Director, and the Jury Award, establishing it as one of the most celebrated Puerto Rican films.

 
2025, 114 minutes, color | Written by Lorraine Jones, Cristian Carretero, Kisha Tikina Burgos | Directed by Lorraine Jones, Cristian Carretero | Main Cast Zion Ortiz, Fabiola Brown, Audicio Robles, Teofilo Torres, Georgina Borri | Produced by Lorraine Jones, Cristian Carretero | Executive Produced by Rafael Carretero, Frankie Cueto, Annabelle Mullen, Valerie Steinberg
 

Registration Information

Even when they reach capacity, Film Lover and Secret Members are guaranteed access to all online screenings. Arts Circle Members are guaranteed access to all online and in-person screenings. Email membership@filmindependent.org for more.

All Film Independent Members can register for this online screening starting at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, January 27. | Registration is free; one registration per Membership. | Proof of Member status is required to complete registration.
 

How to Watch

On the first day of screening availability, registered Members (and guests, when applicable) will be emailed a secure link by our partner Vision Media to watch this title in the Film Independent Presents Online Screening Room.
 

Accessibility

Film Independent is committed to hosting events that are accessible. For inquiries regarding accessibility, or to request an accommodation, please contact us at accessibility@filmindependent.org or 323 556 9305.
 

Online Screening Policies

Availability window and registration capacity may vary; always register as early as possible to ensure access. Links are watermarked, nontransferable and may only be used by the Member who completed the registration. Limit one link per Membership, per event.

Members are required to follow all rules and guidelines as laid out by Film Independent and/or its partners. If a guest has been registered for an event by a Member, these policies shall apply to that guest. Violation of policies may result in suspension or termination of Membership.

Event details and guest participation are subject to change or cancellation without prior notice.