Reel Histories – I Am Cuba (Soy Cuba)

Wednesday 22 October

Reel Histories is a bold and compelling film programme for Black History Month 2025 that highlights the cinematic legacies of Black communities worldwide.

The programme features films that range from poetic reflections on the Windrush generation to revolutionary struggles in the Caribbean, South America, and the UK. These films explore important themes such as resistance, visibility, and identity, inviting audiences to experience stories both hidden and celebrated through narrative, documentary, and short films.

One of the standout films in the programme is I Am Cuba (Soy Cuba). This film is regarded as both a landmark of radical political cinema and a visual masterpiece. It presents four powerful vignettes that capture life in Cuba during a period of profound social and political upheaval, depicting the struggles against economic exploitation and inequality that sparked a working-class revolution. Although it was suppressed for decades as propaganda, I Am Cuba remains essential viewing for anyone interested in cinematic artistry and political history.

The film’s striking imagery and compelling storytelling make it a unique contribution to the exploration of revolutionary movements and their impact on culture and society. Its restoration and reappraisal have secured its place in film history as a significant work of political cinema.

Tickets for individual screenings are priced at £10, with a concession rate of £8, plus a £1 booking fee. For those who wish to fully engage with the programme, the Reel Histories Pass is available for £45. This pass grants access to all screenings, in-conversation events, the official Black History Month launch, and includes a complimentary beverage at each screening.

The Reel Histories programme offers a rich and diverse cinematic experience that encourages reflection and dialogue around Black histories and cultural contributions globally.

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