Qué viva la Revolución! A surreal journey into 1960s Cuban revolution with mesmerizing cinematography and powerful performances

“Qué Viva la Revolución!” - a film title as audacious as the events it depicts – transports viewers to the heart of Cuba in the tumultuous late 1960s. Directed by the acclaimed, yet often controversial, Haskell Wexler, this documentary-style film offers a glimpse into the revolutionary fervor gripping the island nation following Fidel Castro’s rise to power. It’s a cinematic tapestry woven with vibrant street scenes, impassioned speeches, and intimate portraits of everyday Cubans grappling with the seismic shifts in their society.

While not strictly adhering to traditional documentary conventions, “Qué Viva la Revolución!” leans heavily on cinéma vérité techniques, capturing raw moments as they unfold. Wexler’s camera acts like an unobtrusive observer, documenting rallies, parades, and candid conversations, allowing viewers to experience the revolutionary atmosphere firsthand. The film eschews a clear narrative structure, opting instead for a fragmented yet captivating mosaic of Cuban life in the throes of transformation.

Central to the film are the voices of the Cuban people themselves – their hopes, dreams, anxieties, and unwavering belief in Castro’s socialist vision. We encounter farmers extolling the virtues of land redistribution, workers celebrating newfound job security, and intellectuals grappling with the complexities of a society striving for social justice.

Through interviews and observational footage, Wexler delves into the multifaceted realities of the revolution:

The film also touches upon the challenges and contradictions inherent in any revolutionary process. While celebrating the gains made, “Qué Viva la Revolución!” doesn’t shy away from portraying the economic hardships, bureaucratic hurdles, and ideological debates that accompany such profound social change. Wexler presents a nuanced perspective, acknowledging both the triumphs and the complexities of Cuba’s revolutionary journey.

Adding another layer to the film’s rich texture is its evocative cinematography. Wexler, a master cinematographer known for his work on films like “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” and “Coming Home,” employs striking visuals that capture the beauty and vibrancy of Cuba’s landscapes and people. The camera dances through bustling Havana streets, lingers on sun-drenched beaches, and captures intimate moments of joy, sorrow, and resilience.

“Qué Viva la Revolución!” is a film that defies easy categorization. It is part documentary, part political statement, and part cinematic meditation on revolution, social change, and the human spirit. Wexler’s unique vision creates an immersive experience that invites viewers to ponder the complexities of Cuba’s revolutionary journey and its enduring impact on the world stage.

Should “Qué Viva la Revolución!” be considered a must-watch for cinephiles and history buffs?

While not without its limitations, “Qué Viva la Revolución!” remains a powerful and thought-provoking film that deserves to be seen and discussed. It offers a rare glimpse into a pivotal moment in Cuban history and raises enduring questions about the nature of revolution, social justice, and the search for a more equitable world. Wexler’s masterful direction, combined with his evocative cinematography and the authentic voices of the Cuban people, creates a cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

For cinephiles seeking to expand their horizons beyond mainstream Hollywood fare, “Qué Viva la Revolución!” offers a captivating journey into a world of radical social change and unwavering human spirit. For history buffs, it provides a valuable window into the complexities of the Cuban Revolution and its enduring legacy.