“Nova ‘78” is a thrilling journey into the heart of 1970s counterculture, built from never-before-seen footage of the legendary Nova Convention. This explosive three-day event in New York celebrated William S. Burroughs’ return to America, after more than twenty years living in Latin America, North Africa, Paris, and London. Bringing together icons such as Patti Smith, Frank Zappa, Laurie Anderson, Philip Glass, Allen Ginsberg, Merce Cunningham, John Cage, among many others, the convention was a cultural milestone and a testament to the enduring power of creative freedom. The footage captures backstage moments, improvised encounters, and raw performances at the center of New York’s artistic scene. Originally shot in 16mm by filmmaker Howard Brookner and considered lost for decades, it was recovered through an archival project led in the United Kingdom by his nephew, Aaron Brookner.

Presented at the Locarno International Film Festival.