Worlds Together: Cuba

The largest island in the Caribbean has long had a difficult relationship with its northern neighbor, amply illustrated here by an abundance of on-screen quotes from different eras concerning lingering problems and misconceptions. Not exactly a history, nor a traditional travelogue, Worlds Together: Cuba is primarily about the Cuban people. While the program touches upon Castro's role (curiously, he is referred to in the past tense, as if he were already out of power) and the ethics (and efficacy) of the American economic blockade, the majority of producer Elmer Hawkes' beautiful and compelling still photos and video sequences focus on Cuban music, food, lifestyles, and changing times. Unfortunately, audio glitches abound, with sound levels bouncing around (as noted in the narration, excellent musicians are hampered by poor-quality amplification--which we are nevertheless treated to, alas) and words intermittently dropping out of the narration and interviews. Still, the images are striking and the speculation on a post-Castro Cuba is well-considered. More engaging than Regreso (reviewed VL-11/01) and more compact than the three-volume Cuba: The Forgotten Island (VL-3/01), this is recommended, overall, despite the technical drawbacks. Other titles in the Worlds Together series include: Peru, East Africa and West Africa, with all four volumes also available in 23-minute edited Worlds Together for Kids versions priced at $29.95 each. Aud: P. (R. Reagan)