After film festival releases across the world, Habaneros makes its North American debut. Shot during the economic tumult of the transition between Obama and Trump, Habaneros gives the viewer an in-depth overview of Cuba’s history, from colonialism to Trump’s first term. It intersperses glimpses from the past, the music and dance of the island nation, and snippets of Havana that have remained almost unchanged since the success of Castro’s socialist revolution in 1959. The second half of the film focuses more on the recent past, discussing economic changes and lived history with current residents of the city. British documentarian Julien Temple seeks to give viewers a more informed and well-rounded impression of Cuba, its history, and its people than they might otherwise be given.
Habaneros sets out with a large goal that I think it readily meets. Very few Cuba documentaries attempt to give such a broad context to the nation and its age-old struggles. With an interesting mix of media, both contemporary and archival, we’re given a lovingly intimate dive into Havana and the people who call it home. The sound design can edge toward goofy at times, but most viewers won’t even notice as they’re captivated by the stories and histories on display and Julien Temple’s unique, almost lyrical filmmaking style.
I have very few complaints about this film, and if your patrons enjoy documentaries, they’ll likely love Habaneros. The documentary does drag a bit toward the end, and a couple of subjects are far less interesting and informative than others, but, just like the goofy sound design, many viewers won’t even notice as they’re swept up in the film and the history it hopes to transmit. For academic libraries especially, Habaneros is a must-have, but any library serving patrons interested in Latin American history and culture should think about grabbing a copy too. Highly Recommended.
Why should academic libraries consider adding Habaneros to their collections?
Habaneros provides a broad overview of Cuban history while also giving viewers an intimate look at Havana and the people who call it home. Its combination of archival and contemporary media covers Cuba’s history from colonialism through the socialist revolution and into the economic and political changes of the 21st century. This makes the documentary particularly relevant for academic collections supporting courses in Latin American history, Cuban studies, political science, cultural studies, and related subjects.
The film’s attention to lived history also gives students something beyond a straightforward historical overview. By incorporating the experiences of Havana residents alongside historical material, music, dance, and images of the city itself, Habaneros offers viewers a more rounded impression of Cuba and its people.
Is Habaneros a good choice for library film clubs and community screenings?
Libraries with patrons interested in documentaries, world history, or Latin American culture should find plenty to work with in Habaneros. Julien Temple’s mix of archival footage, contemporary material, music, and personal stories makes the film accessible to viewers who may not already have an extensive knowledge of Cuban history.
For film clubs and community screenings, the documentary could prompt conversations about Cuban history, Havana, socialism, economic change, and how Cuba has been perceived outside the country. Temple’s almost lyrical filmmaking style also gives film groups an opportunity to discuss how documentary techniques, archival materials, music, and interviews can be combined to communicate a nation’s history and culture.
Enjoyed this review? Subscribe to Video Librarian today for access to over 40,000 pages of film resources tailored for librarians, educators, and non-theatrical audiences.