Andy Garcia

Special to UM News

CORAL GABLES, Fla. (April 15, 2015)—The distinguished actor/director and producer Andy Garcia is the narrator of 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), a DVD of the highly praised film is now available to UM faculty and staff for the discounted price of $15.

“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,” Suchlicki said.

Using archival footage and photos, the film 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 sugar 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 on the island.

Noted Cuban scholars Carlos Alberto Montaner and Marcos Antonio Ramos have praised the documentary. “A superb summary,” said Montaner. “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.”

Ramos, who called the film “a journey that includes well-selected information and a broad vision of Cuba’s historical development,” said it “highlights the beautiful geography and characteristics of a country that achieved many successes but now suffers a difficult moment. A formidable introduction to Cuba.”

After reviewing the documentary, Garcia volunteered to narrate it. Producer of “The Lost City” as well as other films, Garcia said “Cuba: From Columbus to Castro” is a must for anyone interested in the history of the island. ICCAS is grateful for Garcia’s narration and for his support.

The DVD, which is available for purchase for $20 by calling ICCAS at 305-284-2822 (CUBA) or e-mailing [email protected] is offered to UM faculty and staff for the discounted price of $15.