This curated collection of films delves into the rich tapestry of Cuban history, culture, and revolution. From the vibrant streets of Havana to the iconic figures of Fidel Castro and Che Guevara, these movies offer a cinematic exploration of Cuba's past and present, providing viewers with a deeper understanding of its political, social, and cultural landscape.

I Am Cuba (1964)
Description: A Soviet-Cuban co-production, this film captures the essence of pre-revolutionary Cuba, showcasing the socio-political climate that led to the revolution.
Fact: The film was rediscovered in the 1990s and praised for its innovative cinematography.


Before Night Falls (2000)
Description: This biographical drama about Cuban poet Reinaldo Arenas provides insight into the life under Castro's regime, focusing on personal freedom and artistic expression.
Fact: Javier Bardem received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his role as Arenas.


The Motorcycle Diaries (2004)
Description: While not exclusively about Cuba, this film traces Che Guevara's formative journey across South America, which significantly influenced his revolutionary ideals.
Fact: The film was shot in the actual locations of Guevara's journey, providing authenticity to the narrative.


The Lost City (2005)
Description: Set against the backdrop of the Cuban Revolution, this film tells the story of a wealthy family's downfall as Castro's forces advance, offering a different perspective on the revolution.
Fact: The film was directed by Andy Garcia, who also stars in it, and it was his directorial debut.


Memories of Underdevelopment (1968)
Description: This film examines the life of a bourgeois intellectual in post-revolutionary Cuba, offering a critique of both the old and new regimes.
Fact: It was one of the first Cuban films to gain international acclaim.


Havana (1990)
Description: Set just before the revolution, this film follows an American gambler in Havana, providing a backdrop to the political upheaval.
Fact: Robert Redford stars and also produced the film, which was shot on location in the Dominican Republic due to political issues with filming in Cuba.


Strawberry and Chocolate (1993)
Description: A story of friendship between a gay artist and a straight communist student in 1970s Havana, reflecting on the complexities of Cuban society under Castro's rule.
Fact: It was the first Cuban film to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.


Guantanamera (1995)
Description: A satirical road movie that uses a funeral procession to comment on Cuban bureaucracy and the state of the nation post-Castro's rise to power.
Fact: The film was directed by Tomás Gutiérrez Alea, a key figure in Cuban cinema.


Che: Part Two (2008)
Description: The sequel explores Che's ill-fated campaign in Bolivia, providing a poignant end to his revolutionary journey and the ideals he fought for.
Fact: The film was shot in Spanish, with English subtitles, to maintain authenticity.


Che: Part One (2008)
Description: This film focuses on the life of Che Guevara, particularly his role in the Cuban Revolution, offering an intimate look at his transformation from a doctor to a revolutionary icon.
Fact: Benicio del Toro won the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival for his portrayal of Che Guevara.
