Backdrop preview Cuba's Cancer Hope backdrop
Cuba's Cancer Hope

Cuba's Cancer Hope (2020)

Apr 01, 2020 54m Documentary

When the U.S. trade embargo left Cuba isolated from medical resources, Cuban scientists were forced to get creative. Now they've developed lung cancer vaccines that show so much promise, some Americans are defying the embargo and traveling to Cuba for treatment. In an unprecedented move, Cuban researchers are working with U.S. partners to make the medicines more widely available.

Directed by Llewellyn M. Smith

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Llewellyn M. Smith
Producer
  • Melanie Wallace

Reviews

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Thematic Analysis

Cuba's Cancer Hope represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Llewellyn M. Smith brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2020, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Cuba's Cancer Hope took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 54 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 76 minutes long.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The musical score contains over 57 unique compositions.

Historical Context

  • In 2020, when this film is released:
  • Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Cuba's Cancer Hope shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Nobody, which focuses more on action than character development, Cuba's Cancer Hope subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Intelligent Trees and Jeronimo explore similar territory, Cuba's Cancer Hope stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: April 1, 2020
  • Runtime: 54m

Where to Watch

PBS Documentaries Amazon Channel

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