A Celebration Of Contemporary Cuban Film
Published 24th Mar 2008 by Sarah Wilson

Direct from Havana! Newly-released Cuban films will be screened at the Duke of York's Picture House and Sallis Benney Theatre from Saturday 29th March to Sunday 13th April 2008.  Cuba is facing an uncertain future, and these new films illustrate the dilemmas faced by many Cubans. The films recount different stories, with a common theme: to go or to stay?

Since the 'triumph of the revolution', 50 years ago, Cuban Cinema has emerged as a faithful and vivid reflection of the spirit of the Cuban people. Film-makers have continued to demonstrate that artistic experiment and popular appeal can flourish side by side. Brighton cinemagoers are once again uniquely fortunate in having the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the real Cuba through these exceptional films.

We are privileged to welcome Enrique Colina, film director and presenter of one of the most popular and influential programmes on Cuban TV, featuring not only Cuban Film but cinema worldwide, to the launch of this SPECIAL CELEBRATION on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th March. In addition, on Sunday 30th, there will be an opportunity to takepart in a discussion on Cuban Cinema led by Enrique Colina at CIRCUS CIRCUS, 4 to 6pm.

Ann Cross, who has co-ordinated the successful series of Cuban Film Festivals in Brighton, is available for interview. A frequent visitor to Cuba, Ann Cross has a wide knowledge and appreciation of Cuban film and film-makers. In 2006, following the opening selection of Cuban Films at the Brighton Film Festival, more than 30 Cuban features and documentaries were accepted by the BFI for screening at the NFT and across the UK. at last, giving audiences an opportunity to see this unique form of cinema.


‘Paginas del diario de Mauricio’ (Mauricio’s Diary)
Dir: Manuel Perez 2006 134 mins
Duke of Yorks Sat. 29th March 1.30pm
This complex and moving story opens with Mauricio reflecting on the past 10 years of his life. He examines his personal struggle against the backdrop of the collapse of the Soviet Union precipitating Cuba’s own struggle for survival. A thought provoking film dealing with many sensitive political issues.

‘Madrigal’
Dir: Fernando Perez 2006 110 mins
Duke of Yorks Sun. 30th March at 1.30pm
Followed by special event at
Circus Circus, 4 - 6pm*
Fernando Perez presents a film portraying the uncertainties of every day life in a complex but compelling style, confirming his place as the most original voice in Cuban Cinema today.
‘Madrigal’ is a love story told by Javier, leading to tragedy and deceit. Whether imaginary or not, it is a journey leading to the realisation of the possibility of a new beginning.

*SPECIAL EVENT @ Circus Circus, Sunday 30th March 4-6pm
Film discussion with Guest Speaker ENRIQUE COLINA, Cuban film director and long time presenter of one of the most popular programmes on Cuban TV, an intelligent viewers guide to current and new cinema from around the world.

‘Viva Cuba’
Dir: Juan Carlos Cremata 2005 80 mins
Duke of Yorks Sun. 6th April at 11.30am
A story of a childhood friendship, disapproved by their famlies, one devout Catholics and the other committed Communists. Fearing separation Malu and Jorgito run away, travelling the length of the island in search of Malu’s father. After many extraordinary adventures they find him. But will he agree that Malu can stay? A film that will appeal to both adults and children alike.


‘La edad de la peseta’
(The Silly Age)
Dir: Pavel Giroud 2006 90 mins
Sallis Benney, Brighton University
Sun. 13th April at 7pm
A sensitive and stylish film depicting a young boy’s painful journey into the adult world. His mother escapes an unhappy marriage, taking him to stay with his Grandmother Violeta. A special relationship develops that provides solace to them both. The turbulence of these relationships is mirrored in the approaching revolution.


Ann Cross
Promoting CUBAN FILM in UK
tel 0275 471 839
email: x74anncross@amserve.net

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