Directed by Bruce Donnelly
Alumbrones is a feature length documentary that explores the lives and work of 12 Cuban artists living and working in Cuba today through in depth candid interviews and state of the art cinematography. Among them, the most intimate interview to date with one of the most important artist in Cuba – Pedro Pablo Oliva. It’s an exploration of the creative process, family life, social conditions, the very difficult economic era of the 1990’s known as “The Special Period” and the great resilient humor of the Cuban people.
Visiting each person in their home and studio, the film explores the varying styles and techniques used, the themes, philosophies, and ideas present in their work, as well as the many obstacles and difficulties they face on a daily basis, and the feelings each person has toward what they call home. Through in-depth interviews, the film covers a diverse range of topics and issues, from supply shortages and blackouts (“apagones”) to family life, love, sex, and music.
The film was produced by Lost Boy Films/DKR Films in New York and Adorni Films in Brazil. It was directed by a young rising star director from South Africa, Bruce Donnelly. Also, an original musical score was composed and arranged for the film by well known Cuban musician Rodolfo Argudin Justiz “Peruchin”. All the music was recorded in Havana, Cuba at world famous Egrem Studios. The same studio where Havana Social Club was recorded.
