The documentary film titled Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara: We Are Connected, directed by Cuban filmmaker Ernesto Fundora Hernández, is set to debut on CiberCuba on May 20. This biographical production delves into the life, activism, and artistic endeavors of the Cuban dissident, who has become a symbol of resistance against the oppressive regime.
Filmed across Cuba and Mexico, the documentary highlights the rise of the San Isidro Movement, a cultural and civic platform founded by Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara alongside other independent artists. The movement gained international attention for its bold defiance against censorship and state repression on the island.
The film captures significant moments in the activist's journey, including his pivotal role during the July 11, 2021, protests. During these events, he leveraged social media and live broadcasts to encourage citizens to mobilize within Cuba.
Otero Alcántara often concluded his online broadcasts with the phrase "We Are Connected," a slogan that encapsulated his call for unity, solidarity, and hope among Cubans, despite the regime's oppressive tactics and efforts to sow division. This phrase fittingly serves as the title of the documentary.
With a runtime of 90 minutes and filmed in Full HD, the documentary blends archival footage of the San Isidro Movement with interviews, unseen images, and testimonies from individuals close to Otero Alcántara.
Ernesto Fundora Hernández took on the roles of director, screenwriter, and producer, with Carmelo Raneri and Fundora handling cinematography. The editing and post-production were managed by Josafat Hernández.
Featured in the documentary are Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara, Yanelys Núñez, Amaury Pacheco, and Iris Ruiz, all integral to the artistic and dissident movement that emerged from Havana's San Isidro neighborhood.
The soundtrack boasts contributions from musicians such as Omar Sosa, Armando Gola, César López, Berna Jam, La Crema, and rappers associated with the cultural scene surrounding the movement.
Post-production and the final cut of the documentary were completed in Mexico City in November 2025 under the label Video Vueltas Producciones SA de CV.
The film also addresses Otero Alcántara's international impact, with TIME magazine recognizing him as one of the world's most influential figures. He has been honored by human rights organizations like Amnesty International and Freedom House.
In June 2022, Otero Alcántara was sentenced to five years in prison by the Cuban regime on charges of "insulting national symbols, contempt, and public disorder." He remains detained in Guanajay's maximum-security prison in Artemisa.
International human rights organizations, activists, and cultural figures have repeatedly condemned his trial as politically motivated and marred by violations of fundamental rights. Otero Alcántara is regarded as a prominent figure in Cuba's artistic dissent, with his case symbolizing the crackdown on free expression and independent activism on the island.
Key Questions on Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara and the San Isidro Movement
Who is Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara?
Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara is a Cuban artist and activist known for his opposition to the regime. He is a key figure in the San Isidro Movement, advocating for cultural freedom and against state repression.
What is the San Isidro Movement?
The San Isidro Movement is a cultural and civic platform founded by artists, including Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara, in Havana. It gained fame for openly challenging censorship and repression from the Cuban state.
What impact did Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara have internationally?
Internationally, Otero Alcántara has been recognized as an influential figure, receiving accolades from TIME magazine and human rights organizations for his advocacy and resistance against the Cuban regime.