Two Views of Juan / Regina Coyula

The Movie Poster

My son and I both saw Juan of the Dead at different times. This is a Cuban movie that has just been awarded a Popular Award at the 33rd Latin American Movie Festival. Rafael loved the profusion of bad words, with the “role” of the female blogger played by White Rose White; the “little groups of dissidents at the service of the government of the United States” and the humorous scenes throughout the footage. For Rafael, Juan of the Dead was a lot of fun. Rafael’s mother, as you know, likes to look a little beyond what you see — in Juan of the Dead she saw a zombie country.

This is an unusual B movie within Cuban cinema, which is so focused on social issues. And from the co-producers, Oh, the co-producers! Who are almost always stuck on the inevitable topic of prostitution. This work of Alejandro Brugués connects immediately with his audience and from this base filled with humor — the scene of the dance of the wives is memorable — (I’m not going to tell you the story of the movie so you will go see it), he constantly prods at our society. Look, I don’t go to see films to critique them, it’s an amusement, but brought to trial, Brugués would not be absolved. Although a spontaneous campaign would immediately be organized to call for his release.

Translated by: Hank

December 14 2011