"Memories of Underdevelopment"
1968
Directed by Tomas Gutierrez-Alea

Set in the 1960s, this was the first Cuban film to be released in the U.S.. The film focuses  on a Europeanized Cuban intellectual, too idealistic (or lazy) to leave for Miami, but too decadent to fit into the new Cuban society. The film is a remarkable demonstration that artistic subtlety, political commitment, and superior entertainment need not be incompatible. "A fascinating achievement... here is a film about alienation that is wise, sad and often funny... the result is hugely effective and moving." - Vincent Canby, The New York Times. "A work of considerable accomplishment and historic importance." - Joy Cocks, Time Magazine. Winner of the International Federation of Film Critics Award (1968). Spanish with English subtitles. B&W.  97 minutes.