FilmSocial Presents: I AM CUBA

The Leo Panitch School for Socialist Education is very pleased to present I Am Cuba (1964) as the first entry in the FilmSocial series showcasing films on Cuba. It is more important than ever to keep attention on Cuba and the suffering experienced by the Cuban people  due to U.S. aggression. 

I Am Cuba was the first co-production between the Soviet Union and Cuba led by regular collaborators Mikhail Kalatozov (director) and Sergey Urusevsky (cinematographer) who had previously won the Palme d'Or in 1958 for their film The Cranes Are Flying. The film follows four distinct stories about the Cuban population that chronicles Cuba's ascent from colonialist degradation and the authoritarian rule of Batista’s regime to a revolution that spreads across the country.

The film was not well received by either Cuban or Soviet audiences when it originally premiered in 1964 and. The film was pulled quickly from theatres and largely forgotten until it was re-discovered and rescued by American filmmakers such as Martin Scorsese and Francis Ford Coppola 30 years later. Since then it has gotten a new appreciation, especially for its dazzling images.

While initially panned, I Am Cuba has since been much more appreciated. Not only for its incredible visuals but for the film's optimism, its belief in Cuba, and the desire to spread the revolution. 

The film will be presented in Spanish with English subtitles.

Leo Panitch School events are always presented free-of-charge. This is only made possible through contributions from our participants and supporters. We encourage those who are able to consider becoming a monthly donor via leopanitchschool.ca/donate. 

Accessibility Information

College Street United Church is located at College and Bathurst in Toronto. The building is wheelchair accessible and features multiple accessible, gender neutral washrooms. We kindly ask all attendees to refrain from wearing scented products at Leo Panitch School events. 

Any questions or requests regarding accessibility, participation, or programming can be directed to  info@leopanitchschool.ca. 

Poster design: Ben Davis