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• Arts and Culture
• Cinema
• 12 / 28 / 2006

The production of nearly seven long-length feature films, several short ones and some other documentaries corroborate that Cuba has really excelled in the cinematographic field this year. In general terms, they were not only overwhelming successes but, and most important, they centered the attention of the most demanding critics beyond detractions and preferences.

They have been awarded in Cuba and in important international events. The 28th Festival of the New Latin American Cinema recently held in Havana was not an exception. The fact that the Glauber Rocha Prize sponsored by Prensa Latina and recognizing the best reflection of the Latin American roots in the big screen was conferred to a film with a universal issue like "La Edad de la Peseta" really surprised the experts.

That decision shows the healthy cosmopolitism the Cuba and the regional cinematography signal at. This Hispano-Cuban co-production was officially recognized with the prizes for the best photography (Luis Najmías) and that for the best art direction (Vivian del Valle).

In addition to the excellence of those categories, the film stands out for the rigorous direction work focused on the creations of atmospheres, the generation of sensations and associations beyond the story of teenagers and their relation with adults' world. Meanwhile, "El Benny" directed by Jorge Luis Sanchez and referred to the life of that outstanding figure of our music Benny More, stood with the First Work Award.

"Páginas del diario de Mauricio" by Manuel Perez obtained the Jury's Special Mention. Thus, it is important that a jury mostly made up by foreign filmmakers and experts recognize the treatment of a complex and delicate matter like the so-called special period lived in Cuba in the decade of 90s.

Source: Cubarte