Cuban Soap Opera "Ojo de Agua" Faces Backlash from Viewers

The Cuban soap opera "Ojo de Agua", which premiered on Cubavisión on December 22, 2025, has become a hot topic of criticism on social media following an interview with its director, Albertico Luberta Martínez, published by Cubadebate.

Responses to the state media's post were overwhelmingly negative. Many viewers branded the show as "terrible," pinpointing the script as the primary flaw. Numerous users repeatedly inquired about the show's end date.

"This soap opera is by far the worst ever aired in Cuba," commented one viewer. Another observed: "The actors are excellent, but the show is awful, the script is poor—it's the worst I've watched so far."

Script Under Fire

Criticism of the script was both constant and consistent. "There are many inconsistencies in the script. Too many absurdities and violence. Nadia's character has very few redeeming qualities. I don't see any passion in her relationships," noted another comment. One user was more direct in addressing the creators: "Tell Luberta and the co-directors that to direct a soap opera or anything, you need to thoroughly understand the story and study the script to achieve content uniformity. You can't just make things up on the fly."

Concerns with Main Character

Dissatisfaction with the main character was a recurring theme. "For me, the audience's displeasure stems from the script; I don't like the protagonist's character at all—just yelling and talking like a machine gun, oblivious to her children's problems," wrote one spectator. Another comment summed up the general sentiment: "No matter how much they try to dress it up... the audience has the final say."

Praise Reserved for Actors

The only positive remarks in the comments section were directed solely at the cast. "Poor script and the directors left much to be desired this time. I repeat: only the actors' performances stand out," wrote one user. Another added: "Sensitive topics are handled inadequately, more like forced, and a level of violence that offers nothing enlightening. Given the limited budget, it's a shame."

The storyline revolves around Nadia, a 45-year-old agronomist and expert in beekeeping played by Yura López, returning to her hometown to transform her family farm into an organic honey project. The direction was a collaborative effort: Luberta, José Víctor Herrera, and Humberto Hernández Massia each oversaw different sections or family units, often from distant locations.

This isn't the first wave of criticism. In January, Cubadebate published an article by Félix A. Correa Álvarez pointing out severe geographical errors—such as an incorrect reference to Hurricane Irma on the southern coast—and an oversimplified and implausible portrayal of the CITMA's scientific processes. The critic concluded that "what could have been an opportunity to engage the public with a real, complex issue of significant social impact has revealed a troubling lack of technical advice and conceptual rigor."

Tragedy Strikes Production

The production was also marked by tragedy: actor Raúl Enríquez, who played a pivotal dramatic role, passed away on December 20, 2025, just two days before the premiere. His colleagues paid tribute to him amid their grief.

In February, Luberta acknowledged the challenges: "Producing a soap opera is a highly complex endeavor, especially under current circumstances," and expressed gratitude for the entire team's efforts.