Cuban actor and filmmaker Jorge Molina has once again moved audiences with his candid reflections on the challenging reality he faces in Cuba, pondering why he continues to remain on the island despite the hardships.
During a conversation with journalist Michel Hernández, the esteemed filmmaker expressed a deep sense of hopelessness due to the lack of opportunities and the ongoing decline of Cuba's cultural landscape.
"I've always wondered what will become of me. I'm not skilled in anything but art. It's tough when your profession is not appreciated. I'm human and have my downfalls. I've never thought of ending my life because I'm a coward, but I do get severely depressed, and I believe that's normal. Not seeing the light is tough. My daughters ask why we are still here and tell me I'm crazy," Molina confessed.
He further elaborated that his daughters are considering leaving the country, just like thousands of other young Cubans, due to bleak prospects. "I've tried to guide them, but reality tells a different story," Molina stated in a segment shared by Hernández on Facebook.
The actor also revealed that almost his entire family participated in his latest film, highlighting their strong bond amidst adversities: "They respect me, and as a family, we have a great dynamic," he expressed with emotion.
The Challenge of Being a Filmmaker in Cuba
Born in Santiago de Cuba in 1966, Molina is one of the country's most unique and controversial filmmakers. He studied at the Moscow State Institute of Cinematography and later graduated from the International School of Film and Television in San Antonio de los Baños in 1992.
He is considered a cult figure in Cuban cinema, with a filmography that delves into horror, science fiction, and erotica—genres rarely explored in national cinema. His work has consistently been marginalized by the Cuban Institute of Cinematographic Art and Industry (ICAIC), excluded from official distribution channels.
In an interview with CiberCuba, Molina described himself as an "alternative filmmaker," a title that underscores his resilience and creative independence in the face of the regime's cultural control.
Understanding Jorge Molina's Struggles in Cuba
Why does Jorge Molina stay in Cuba?
Jorge Molina remains in Cuba despite the difficulties because his profession and passion are tied to his homeland, and leaving would mean starting from scratch.
What challenges does Molina face as a filmmaker in Cuba?
Molina faces significant challenges due to the lack of appreciation for his art, the marginalization of his films by the ICAIC, and the broader decline in cultural opportunities on the island.
How does Molina describe his mental health struggles?
Molina describes experiencing severe depression due to his circumstances, though he asserts he would never consider suicide, attributing this to cowardice.