The Cuban film industry is grieving the loss of the esteemed filmmaker, director, and sound engineer Jonal Cosculluela Sánchez, who passed away this Monday at the age of 47 in his hometown of Havana. This sad news was confirmed by the Cuban Institute of Cinematographic Art and Industry (ICAIC). Cosculluela, a 2010 graduate of the Faculty of Audiovisual Media Arts (FAMCA), made his mark in Cuban television with several series and dramas. His cinematic debut came in 2016 with the feature film Esteban, which garnered numerous awards at international festivals.
As of now, the cause of this promising filmmaker's untimely death has not been disclosed. In 2020, amidst the pandemic, he co-directed the documentary Volverán los abrazos with Maritza Ceballos. His colleagues at ICAIC have expressed their heartfelt condolences, stating, "Our condolences and hugs to his family and friends."
Cinematographic critic Juan Antonio García emphasized the profound loss felt by Cosculluela's passing, particularly given the bright future that lay ahead for him. “With Esteban, he had already shown his credentials. Much light. His cinema remains with us,” García remarked.
A Legacy in Film
The Cuban Filmmakers Assembly also joined in mourning, highlighting his close ties and impact within the artistic community. “With Jonal, we shared time, work, jokes, ideas... We remember his humor and unique approach to challenges,” they expressed in a statement shared on social media.
Jonal Cosculluela Sánchez (Havana, 1977 - Havana, October 28, 2024) left a significant imprint on the cultural landscape of Cuba. He was a 2010 graduate of the Higher Institute of Art and began his career as a sound engineer and editor at the Cuban Institute of Radio and Television before venturing into the film industry.
His work was celebrated at various festivals for its sensitivity and depth. In 2020, alongside Maritza Ceballos, he co-directed the poignant documentary Volverán los abrazos, which captured life during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Notable Filmography
Among his notable works are:
- Aislados (2022) - Directed by Yoe Pérez, Zenia Veigas, Maritza Ceballos, Sailín Carbonell (General Production)
- Volverán los abrazos (2021) - Co-directed with Maritza Ceballos
- Pa’que tu sepas las cosas como son (2017) - Directed by Jonal Cosculluela
- Esteban (2015) - Directed by Jonal Cosculluela
- Voces de 1912 (2014) - Directed by Jonal Cosculluela
- La primera vez (2011) - Edited by Jonal Cosculluela, Directed by Richard Abella
- Altocontraste (2010) - Directed by Jonal Cosculluela
- Room for Rent (2010) - Directed by Jonathan C. S. (Jonal Cosculluela)
- Asdrúbal (2008) - Directed by Jonal Cosculluela
- Magia (1999) - Directed by Jonathan C. S. (Jonal Cosculluela)