La virgen de la Caridad

(Cuban readers, please correct me when I'm wrong :)

Context: Cuba won her independence in the 1890s, but politicial life remained instable, especially after the Great Depression in 1929, which resulted in violent protests and a military takeover in 1933.

Content: In the plot, Yeye lost his father presumably in the Independence War, but inherited some land. He would like to marry Trina, but the ex-owner's son, Fernandez arrives in town and with the help of corrupt officials, he reclaims the land and also Trina... Knowing later films, it was weird that social issues are addressed, such as worker oppression or corruption, but they are not dealt with. When violence would break out, something always stops that from happening. In the end, a miracle helps to resolve the situatuion, because heavenly justice prevails, but not worldly. A story was rather confusing, as irrelevant characters were introduced, and the plot elements were not exposed clearly, I had to re-watch the film to understand it.

Realization: The start had a bit Soviet-style montage, and there were a few fancy, dynamic camera movements when there was a horse or train involved, but the overall look wasn't spectacular. Acting was not overly theatratical, so it was fitting for a silent movie.

Summary: Being one of the first Cuban important film, I can value its place in film history, but overall it felt outdated, as if I watch a film from 10-15 years earlier.

I agree with Danny above. Then again, the actor Miguel Santos was my Grandfather and Danny is my cousin. I too believe this is an excellent film. It's a silent movie and I had the opportunity to watch it in the big screen when the Director was being honored in Miami many years ago. Aside from the nostalgia of seeing my Grandfather in the movie, it was very enjoyable. It's a shame a lot of Cuban Film is lost due to the disgusting Revolution. I am hoping that somehow this film is out there in good condition and one day available for purchase as well as other films that Miguel Santos acted in. He also acted in this film along side his niece.