One Night

Synopsis

One Night (Una noche) is a gripping Cuban drama released in 2012, directed by Lucy Mulloy. The film centers on Malú and Elio, two best friends and aspiring musicians living in Havana who dream of escaping the economic hardships of their homeland. Desperate for a better life, they embark on a perilous journey through the city’s underground networks in hopes of reaching the United States. The film paints a raw, authentic portrait of youth, friendship, and the sacrifices made in pursuit of freedom and opportunity. Enhanced by Daniel Arrechaga’s compelling performance, One Night is both a tense thriller and a poignant social commentary on contemporary Cuba’s realities.

Cast

• Daniel Arrechaga

  Raul

• Analin de la Rua de la Torre

  Lila

• Javier Nunez Florian

  Elio

• Maria Adelaida Mendez Bonet

  Adelaida

• Greisy del Valle

  Greisy

• 

  Katia Caso

  Hilda

Reviews

One Night has been generally well-received by critics, praised for its realistic portrayal and emotional depth. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds an 82% approval rating, indicating strong positive feedback. Critics have highlighted the film’s powerful storytelling and immersive atmosphere. For instance, The Hollywood Reporter commended the film for its “raw intensity and well-developed sense of place,” adding that it vividly captures the challenges faced by Cuban youth. IMDb users rate the film at 6.7/10, reflecting a solid if not universally acclaimed reception. Metacritic’s score of 68/100 suggests generally favorable reviews, with appreciation for the film’s direction and performances but some remarks on pacing issues. Variety noted the film’s ability to “navigate the tension between hope and despair,” though it mentioned that at times the narrative feels slightly uneven. Overall, One Night is considered a compelling and socially relevant film that sheds light on the Cuban migrant experience with both empathy and suspense.