A new dawn in Cuban cinema: ‘Her Lightness’ shines at Locarno Festival

A rising star in Cuban cinema

Cuban actress Lola Amores, known for her captivating performances in “Wild Woman,” “Miki Maniaco,” and “Santa & Andrés,” is set to lead the cast of “Her Lightness” (“La Levedad de Ella”). This film marks the feature debut of director Rosa María Rodríguez Pupo, who is making waves in a predominantly male-dominated Cuban film industry. Producers Martha Orozco and Cristina Gallego have expressed their excitement about this groundbreaking project, which promises to open new avenues in Cuban cinema.

A powerful narrative

“Her Lightness” is a film that delves deep into the life of Nora, a 42-year-old woman who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and liberation. The film’s plot revolves around Nora’s radical decision to lie about being pregnant to abandon her cancer treatment and distance herself from her husband. This act of defiance challenges the traditional notion that women are primarily caregivers and nurturers.

Nora’s journey is one of introspection and self-realization. As she seeks freedom, she must let go of the societal ties that have defined her existence. Her decision, though incomprehensible to many, ultimately illuminates a path for her loved ones as well.

A director with a vision

Rosa María Rodríguez Pupo is not new to the world of filmmaking. She has an impressive portfolio of short films, including “La costurera” (2016), “I Love Papuchi” (2018), “Nara” (2020), and “La Trenza,” which is part of “Cuentos de un día más.” She also directed the one-hour documentary “Organo.” With “Her Lightness,” Rodríguez Pupo is set to make a significant impact on the international film scene.

A collaborative effort

“Her Lightness” is a collaborative production involving Cuba’s GatoRosafilms, Mexico’s Martfilms, and Colombia’s Ciudad Lunar, with additional support from Laima in Colombia and Cuba’s Vedado Films. This international collaboration brings together a wealth of experience and expertise, ensuring that the film is a high-quality production.

Cristina Gallego, working out of Ciudad Lunar, has an impressive track record, having produced the 2016 Oscar nominee “Embrace of the Serpent” and co-directed “Birds of Passage,” a major hit at the 2018 Cannes Directors’ Fortnight. She also produced the 2022 San Sebastian, Zurich, and Chicago top prize winner “The Kings of the World.”

Martha Orozco, known for her focus on social issue films and new directors, produced “Allende, Beyond Allende,” which won the Cannes best documentary L’Œil d’Or, and “Daughter of Rage,” which premiered at Toronto and San Sebastian.

Armando Capó, a distinguished director in his own right, gained recognition with his 2019 film “Agosto,” which topped San Sebastian’s industry awards in 2014. He is currently working on “El Regresado,” which is nearing post-production, and the documentary feature “La tierra de la ballena,” a tribute to his native city of Gibara.

A promising future

“Her Lightness” is more than just a film; it is a testament to the rising talent of Cuban director Rosa María Rodríguez Pupo. Producers Orozco and Gallego have high hopes for this project, believing that Rodríguez Pupo has the potential and sensitivity to create a powerful, honest, and realistic film from a female intimate perspective on a sensitive and universal theme.

With the combined international experience and artistic collaboration of the production team, “Her Lightness” is poised to make a significant impact on the global film industry. The film’s premiere at the Locarno Festival, Europe’s biggest mid-summer film event, is a testament to its high profile and the anticipation surrounding it.

For cinema and TV series enthusiasts, “Her Lightness” offers a unique and thought-provoking narrative that challenges traditional gender roles and explores the depths of human introspection. It is a film that promises to resonate with audiences worldwide, shedding light on the complexities of personal freedom and self-discovery.

Watch the trailer for “Her Lightness”

As we look forward to the release of “Her Lightness,” it is clear that Cuban cinema is on the rise, with talented filmmakers like Rosa María Rodríguez Pupo leading the way. This film is a beacon of hope and inspiration, showcasing the power of storytelling to challenge societal norms and illuminate the human experience.