Yank Tanks

Between the forty odd years of the U.S. embargo and Castro's iron fist, the people of Cuba have been forced to learn to adapt in order to survive. In this charming tribute to the classic American cars of the 50's that still rule the highways of Cuba one gets to meet the owners and the mechanics who make sure these beloved vehicles don't end up on the scrap heap. The sheer persistence and inventiveness of these car lovers in manufacturing replacement parts that are either no longer available or out of reach of the isolated island is impressive to say the least. With enormous charm and terrific music, director David Schendel invades the back street garages and interviews the mechanics who are determined to preserve the stylish American cars that in the U.S. would only be found in auto museums. One constantly senses the good-humored attitude of a people determined to persevere and survive under an unrelenting system. David Schendel has done a masterful job in locating so many craftsmen with such a sense of dedication. The question asked over and over "If you had to choose between your car and your wife, which would you choose?" meets with various amused answers. But the proof is in the love these mechanics pour into these sleek American beauties of a bygone era. A charming documentary that deserves to be seen by an audience in need of a reality jolt when it comes to throw-away consumerism. You don't know how lucky you are!

When the U.S. embargo of Cuba began in 1961, 150,000 American cars were in the country. Cut off from a supply of parts and with insufficient money to replace these cars, the people of Cuba have been remarkably inventive in keeping these cars running. With humor and great music, this film tells the story of the owners, the mechanics, and of course the cars. It tied for the audience award for best documentary at Cinequest (the San Jose, CA film festival), and this was the world premiere screening (3/2/2002).

I hadn't originally intended to see this film, but on the opening night of the festival I was accosted by the director outside of a nearby bookstore.

I first read about this movie in "Hot Rod" magazine. I found it particularly interesting how this dedicated group of mechanics and automobile enthusiasts were able to keep their prized older American cars on the road. Without access to the typical parts sources in the U.S., Cubans have managed to reform sheet metal into any desired shape, mold and bend and cut glass to fit windshields, back or door windows, recycle glass in home kilns, fabricate chrome trim pieces by hand, adapt Soviet and other communist bloc parts and assemblies to fit any automobile desired, and generally keep their cars roadable. (Yes, IMDb, "roadable" is a real word, spelled correctly.)

The movie runs just under 70 minutes in length and features several interviews with mechanics and car owners. Pay particular attention to Ito, who makes new brake shoes.

The cars range from jury-rigged clunkers, to extremely well-maintained collectors' items. Watch through the end credits as well.