Irrespective of the restrictions enforced upon Cuba for more than half a century, it provides both a remarkable healthcare and education system, and, it was the first place to be visited by Nelson Mandela upon his release from prison in 1990.
What Cuba has shown the world is that it is a nation of activism and advancement, of resilience and revolution ? exactly what a recent film festival dedicated to the Cuban revolution was keen to document last week.
Situated on Great George Street ? just a stone?s throw away from the very Cuban Alma De Cuba ? the festival screened numerous movies that showed the accomplishments of Cuba in medicine, education and Feminism, while also looking at the Cuban revolution more closely and demonstrating how Cuba is vital to the United Kingdom.
So, we thought we?d take our own look at some of the revolutionary movies that were on show.
The film festival, which was celebrating 60 years of the Cuban revolution, began by screening three movies dedicated to women and the roles they played in it.
One of those movies was Catherine Murphy?s 2011 documentary Maestra, which looked at the women involved in the 1961 literacy campaign. Cuba sent 250,000 volunteers across the Island to teach reading and writing and this is what Maestra touched upon.
The other movies on show were Mariela Castro?s March, Cubanas: Mujeres en Revolucion and Cuba: Defending Socialism, Resisting Imperialism.
The fundamental truth about the atmosphere of a cinema screening remains the same, with audiences and directors over the weekend demonstrating a passion for Cuba and everything Cuban. The cinema screening lasted for the entire weekend and showcased some of the best movies about the Cuban revolution.
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On Sunday 13 January, audience members were treated to an exclusive screening of Steven Soderbergh?s two-part biopic Che, which follows a South American doctor turned worldwide revolutionary (Che Guevara) and his endeavours to overthrow the government in 1957.
?Expressive, innovative, exciting, bold, beautiful and bleak,? were just some of the superlatives used by Cinematical?s James Rocchi to describe Che, concluding his review by pronouncing it as a ?work of art.?
Following Che came Connie Field?s ?Saludi, a documentary which spanned three continents and examined the doctors and nurses placing Cuba on the healthcare map.
?Saludi! recounted the unknown story of Cuba: a poor country overcoming adversity to provide universal healthcare and helping other developing nations do the same.
Taking everything into account, Che and ?Saludi! were both outstanding movies that succeeded in closing an equally outstanding celebration of Cuba.
Celebrate everything revolutionary at Alma De Cuba, Liverpool?s favourite Cuban bar and restaurant.
Located within the historic old church on Seel Street, Alma De Cuba is simply stunning. The listed building with its famous white casing boasts breathtaking original features, with spectacular windows and a grand, old pedestal that dominates the already awe-inspiring room.
We can?t wait to welcome you into our stunning venue this year: whether you?re looking for the ultimate Cuban party or a mouthwatering meal for two, there?s no place like Alma ? a taste of Cuba in the heart of Liverpool.
For more information, or to book a table or booth, get in touch with our helpful team on 0151 236 0166 or visit our contact page now.
