Amid the official silence surrounding the death of Carlos Massola, the Cuban Filmmakers Assembly published a subdued statement this Thursday, more than 24 hours after his passing, mourning the loss of the artist while using euphemisms to reference the actor’s political defiance. "Yesterday, at the age of 62, our beloved Carlos Massola passed away. He was an excellent actor of theater, film, and television, often excluded due to his civic stance," the entity stated, subtly alluding to Massola's political views and the censorship he faced because of them.
The Filmmakers Assembly, created in 2022 and independent from the ICAIC—although even for "independents," there are limits in Cuba—listed Massola's roles in films such as Juan of the Dead, Pata Negra, Omega 3, Blue Heart, August, and A Rose from France, as well as in Cuban television soap operas and dramas.
"Many characters bore the imprint of his talent, charisma, and authenticity. He stood out for his ability to portray villains, in contrast to his personal life always committed to causes he deemed just," the publication added, making another veiled reference to the deceased actor's political stance.
"Close to many filmmakers and artists who are part of this Assembly, we deeply feel his loss. His appearances on screen will remind us of him for a long time. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends," the statement concluded.
"A great actor discriminated against for his political stance, not civic;" "I think they took too long to make this publication. Thank God the support on social media has been impressive," responded two commentators dissatisfied with the Assembly’s text, both in tone and the delayed reaction.
The Cuban Filmmakers Assembly is an organization of professionals from the audiovisual sector in Cuba, formed in response to the need for a space to gather and discuss the state of cinema on the island, especially given the restrictions and challenges they face in their work. Their goals include defending the labor and creative rights of Cuban filmmakers, ensuring conditions to develop their work freely and without censorship. Additionally, they aim to promote the production of independent films, providing a space for projects that reflect the cultural diversity and richness of the country.
The death of actor Carlos Massola, who in recent years frequently voiced his opposition to the Cuban government, has been completely ignored by the cultural authorities in recent hours. To date, no official Cuban cultural institution has acknowledged his passing on social media.
Neither the Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba (UNEAC), the Ministry of Culture (MINCULT), the Cuban Institute of Radio and Television (ICRT), nor the Cuban Institute of Cinematographic Art and Industry (ICAIC) have commented on the actor’s death. Cultural news programs on television and the print press have also made no reference to the unfortunate event.
Despite this, Massola has not lacked recognition and spontaneous tributes from many of his colleagues in recent hours, nor the affection of the people, who appreciated the courage he had to express his political ideas without censorship or euphemisms.
Questions on Carlos Massola and the Cuban Filmmakers Assembly
To provide readers with more insight into the significance of Carlos Massola's career and the role of the Cuban Filmmakers Assembly, here are some frequently asked questions.
Who was Carlos Massola?
Carlos Massola was a renowned Cuban actor known for his roles in theater, film, and television. He was also known for his political defiance, which led to his exclusion from many official productions.
What is the Cuban Filmmakers Assembly?
The Cuban Filmmakers Assembly is an independent organization created in 2022, consisting of professionals from the audiovisual sector in Cuba. It aims to defend the labor and creative rights of Cuban filmmakers and promote the production of independent films.
Why did the Cuban Filmmakers Assembly's statement on Carlos Massola's death raise concerns?
The statement raised concerns because it was published more than 24 hours after Massola's passing and used euphemisms to reference his political defiance, which some felt downplayed the significance of his stance and the censorship he faced.
What roles did Carlos Massola play in his career?
Carlos Massola participated in films such as Juan of the Dead, Pata Negra, Omega 3, Blue Heart, August, and A Rose from France, as well as in Cuban television soap operas and dramas.