ANDY GARCIA NARRATES DOCUMENTARY

Institute for Cuban and Cuban-American Studies                       Ph: 305-284-CUBA (2822)
1531 Brescia Avenue                                                                         Fax: 305-284-4875
Coral Gables, Florida 33146                                                             iccas@miami.edu

ANDY GARCIA NARRATES DOCUMENTARY 
ON THE HISTORY OF CUBA

Coral Gables, Fl.  –The distinguished actor/director and producer Andy Garcia narrates the new English-language documentary on the history of Cuba titled “Cuba: From Columbus to Castro” produced by the University of Miami’s Institute for Cuban and Cuban-American Studies (ICCAS) and directed by Jorge Sotolongo, a prominent Cuban-American filmmaker.

“This is a panorama of Cuban history, not for experts, but for younger Cuban-Americans and others interested in the history of the island,” said Jaime Suchlicki, ICCAS director. Suchlicki hopes to distribute the educational 26-minute video to local schools. “It makes a great gift for anyone that wants an introduction to Cuba” explained Suchlicki.

Using archival footage and photos, the documentary begins with Christopher Columbus’s discovery of the island, chronicles the early life of the native Indians and moves through the early years of the republic. Noted Cubans are highlighted. These include Carlos Manuel de Céspedes, a Cuban plantation owner who led the first war against Spain; Dr. Carlos Finlay, a pioneer in the discovery of the origin of yellow fever and José Marti, the Cuban national hero and distinguished writer.   

The film culminates with Fidel Castro’s revolution, Cuba’s eventual turn to Communism and the present state of affairs in the island.   

The DVD is available for purchase for $20.00 by calling ICCAS at 305-284-2822 (CUBA) or e-mailing iccas@miami.edu.

Noted Cuban scholars Carlos Alberto Montaner and Marcos Antonio Ramos have praised the documentary.  “A superb summary.  Explaining Cuban history in 26 minutes is a marvel, doing it well is a miracle.  The last few minutes, devoted to the Communist era, are excellent,” said Montaner. “A journey that includes well selected information and a broad vision of Cuba’s historical development.  Highlights the beautiful geography and characteristics of a country that achieved many successes but now suffers a difficult moment.  A formidable introduction to Cuba,” emphasized Dr. Ramos.

After reviewing the documentary, Andy Garcia volunteered to narrate it free of charge.  The popular and distinguished actor/director and producer of “The Lost City,” as well as other films, called “Cuba: From Columbus to Castro” a must for anyone interested in the history of the island.  ICCAS is grateful for Andy Garcia’s narration and for his support.

• image002