Cuba: The Forgotten Island

Since Columbus arrived on the shores of Cuba in 1492, setting the stage for the devastating invasion of the Spanish conquistadors, the island country has been in a constant state of turmoil, variously operating over the years as a hub for the African slave trade, a center for organized crime, and a breeding ground for political insurgence. Out of the ashes of extensive conflict and invasions have arisen a number of unique cultural and artistic expressions, as well as a strange symbiosis between Cuba and its big neighbor to the North, and a refresher history course of the island helps give context to more recent developments such as boat people and disputes over motherless children. Cuba: The Forgotten Island is comprised of three programs. Cuba's Conquistadors begins with the arrival of Columbus and ends with a look at the campaigns/reigns of Batista, Che and Castro, examining every major conflict in between. Return to Havana chronicles the rich musical heritage of Cuba (few countries make music such an integral part of its culture). The final program, Hemingway's Cuba, considers the impact the island had on "Papa's" life and work, as well as the political backdrop of pre-revolutionary Cuba. Since the raw videography borders on the spectacular (even night shots are impeccable), the VHS set is the preferred choice here as the DVD transfer is flawed, sporting pixelized and distorted images. Recommended (on video, not DVD). Aud: H, C, P. (C. Block)