The Cuban actor Alexis Díaz de Villegas, who passed away on June 24, 2022, due to cancer and is fondly remembered for his performances, was posthumously awarded at the Fine Arts Film Festival in the Dominican Republic.
Díaz de Villegas received the award for Best Lead Actor for his role in the film Insular, directed by filmmaker Héctor Manuel Valdez, according to the website CubaActores. This was Díaz de Villegas' final performance in a Cuban feature film, a work that the festival's jury chose to honor. It is one of the rare instances where such an award has been given posthumously in the Dominican Republic.
Film and Festival Recognition
The movie Insular, based on the short story “La Isla” by Luis Martín Gómez, premiered in 2023 during the International Film Festival of India in Goa. The director also received the award for Best Director, while Cuban actresses Andrea Doimeadiós and Lía Chapman were honored as Best Lead and Supporting Actresses, respectively.
Díaz de Villegas is particularly remembered for his role in Juan de los Muertos, directed by Alejandro Brugués, which won the Goya Award for Best Spanish-Language Foreign Film in 2013. Born in Cumanayagua, Cienfuegos, in 1966, he enjoyed great popularity among Cubans. He had an outstanding career in Cuban theater and also found success in cinema with titles such as Kangamba, Tres veces dos, El cuerno de la abundancia, and Habana Blues.
Frequently Asked Questions about Alexis Díaz de Villegas' Posthumous Award
Here are some common questions and answers regarding the posthumous recognition of Alexis Díaz de Villegas and his legacy in the film industry.
Why was Alexis Díaz de Villegas awarded posthumously?
Alexis Díaz de Villegas was posthumously awarded for his exceptional performance in the film Insular, which was his final role in a Cuban feature film.
What is the significance of the film Insular?
Insular is a film based on the short story “La Isla” by Luis Martín Gómez, and it premiered at the International Film Festival of India in Goa in 2023. It has received multiple accolades, including Best Director and Best Lead and Supporting Actresses.
What other notable works did Alexis Díaz de Villegas participate in?
Alexis Díaz de Villegas is also well-known for his roles in films such as Juan de los Muertos, Kangamba, Tres veces dos, El cuerno de la abundancia, and Habana Blues.