The Last Supper

Winner of a Grand Prize at the Chicago International Film Festival, this unusual moral allegory is based on a true incident which occurred on a Cuban sugar plantation during the late 18th century. During Holy Week, a Count (Nelson Villagra) journeys to his plantation to see how sugar production is coming along. When he arrives, a runaway slave has just been captured and, as the Count looks on, the cruel overseer Don Manuel cuts off the man's ear as punishment. Sickened by the act, the Count requests that 12 slaves be selected to attend a feast inside the house--including the runaway. Assuming Messianic proportions, the Count washes and kisses the feet of his slaves, provides for them a lavish feast, and counsels them on the spiritual benefits of suffering. Needless to say, the slaves are a mite bit confused over this concept. In his cups, the Count offers one man his freedom, and tells everyone that there will be no work the following day--Good Friday. After the Count rides off, however, the overseer rouses the slaves and demands that they work the fields. The action sets off a protest, which the slaves faithfully believe will be resolved by the Count. Hung over, his moment of pious duty already a memory, the Count does indeed take control of the situation--ordering that the 12 slaves be put to death. Director Tomas Gutierrez Alea's film is a dark and brooding drama with unexpected comic touches (as when the slaves react in horror when the Count describes communion: "They ate Christ?"). Leisurely paced, this thought-provoking film will be enjoyed by patrons of serious cinema. Highly recommended. (R. Pitman) [DVD Review—Mar. 18, 2008—New Yorker, 110 min., in Spanish w/English subtitles, not rated, $29.95—Making its first appearance on DVD, 1976's The Last Supper features a so-so transfer. DVD extras include trailers and a booklet with an interview of director Tomás Gutiérrez Alea. Bottom line: a small extras package for a fine film.]