Watch Looking For A Space: Lesbians and Gay Men in Cuba

Looking For A Space: Lesbians and Gay Men in Cuba is a thought-provoking documentary that explores the lives of LGBTQ individuals on the island nation of Cuba. Produced in 2008, the film is a joint production of the Logo TV channel and the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. The documentary is directed by Marcia Jarmel and Ken Schneider and runs for approximately 60 minutes.

The film opens with a brief introduction to the history of homosexuality in Cuba. During the revolution, Fidel Castro famously declared that "a homosexual cannot be a revolutionary" and gay men were subjected to persecution and harassment by the government. However, in the years since, the Cuban government has made strides towards greater acceptance of the LGBTQ community. The film then follows a group of gay and lesbian Cubans as they navigate their lives in a society that is still deeply divided on issues of sexuality and tolerance.

The central figures in the film are a group of LGBTQ activists who refer to themselves as the "Rainbow Project." Through a series of interviews and conversations, we learn about their experiences growing up in Cuba, coming to terms with their sexuality, and their struggles with discrimination and social ostracism. The Rainbow Project is led by Mariela Castro, the daughter of Fidel Castro's brother Raul. Mariela is a tireless advocate for LGBTQ rights in Cuba and is interviewed extensively throughout the film.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the documentary is the intersection between LGBTQ identity and Cuban national identity. Many of the people interviewed in the film frame their experiences through the lens of Cuban history and culture. They talk about the impact of the revolution on their lives, the legacy of Che Guevara, and the importance of socialism in creating a more just society. At the same time, they are acutely aware of the tension between traditional Cuban values and the more open and accepting attitudes of the LGBTQ community.

The film also explores the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic on the LGBTQ community in Cuba. While the country has made great strides in providing medical care for people living with HIV, there is still a stigma surrounding the disease. In one particularly moving scene, we see a group of men gathering in a park to commemorate World AIDS Day. The men read out the names of people they have lost to the disease, highlighting the high toll it has taken on the community.

Throughout the film, there is a sense of hopefulness and optimism that shines through. While the challenges facing the LGBTQ community in Cuba are significant, there is also a deep sense of resilience and determination. The Rainbow Project's work is inspiring, and there is a sense that change is happening, albeit slowly. The film ends with a beautiful sequence of Mariela Castro leading a Pride parade through the streets of Havana, demonstrating the progress that has been made in recent years.

Overall, Looking For A Space: Lesbians and Gay Men in Cuba is a moving and powerful documentary that sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ community in Cuba. The film is expertly crafted, with sensitive and nuanced interviews that delve deep into the personal experiences of its subjects. Whether you are a member of the LGBTQ community or an ally, this documentary is a must-see for anyone interested in the fight for equality and justice.

Looking For A Space: Lesbians and Gay Men in Cuba is a 2007 special interest movie with a runtime of 39 minutes.