The veil of mystery shields much of the world from daily life in the socialist country of Cuba. Director Kim Anno bravely, and successfully, lifts the lid on Cuba’s marginalized queer community in the documentary ¡Quba!. Shining a spotlight on the LGBTQ+ people who have struggled for visibility and safety in their communities, ¡Quba! offers a beacon of light and the promise of a more inclusive future. The documentary makes its World Premiere at the 2025 La Havana International Film Festival on Saturday, April 5.

Homosexuality is Not a Danger. Homophobia is.

The vibrancy of Cuba’s colorful buildings and vibrant coastline act as a backdrop to this important human rights story. The film takes place around five cities: Havana, Santa Clara, Caibarién, Matanzas, and Santiago de Cuba. They share a similar background where the population’s education is low but activism is high. Our protagonist is Adela Hernandez, a trans politician who overcame a four-year stay in prison due to her sexual identity to then become the first transgender official in Cuba’s government.

The documentary also interviews Ramon Silverio, a trailblazer who has dedicated his life to El Mejunje Center, often regarded as a cultural haven for the queer community. This safe space aims to challenge prejudice through the universal language of art. Fidel Castro’s niece, Mariela Castro, Las Isabellas, and Ulises Suarez further propel the social revolution by leading the charge on the Marriage Equality Act, which resulted in a victory in 2022.

Love Wins

Combining modern interviews with archival footage from Fidel Castro’s reign, ¡Quba! documents just how far the country has come. Gone are the days of machismo patriarchy and religious bigotry. The Cuba of the past is transforming into a country of acceptance and belonging. Says filmmaker Kim Anno, “The Cuban LGBTQ community opened their minds and hearts to our film and I am the first LGBTQ director to make a feature film about this topic.”

Takeaway

For most Americans, visiting Cuba for tourist purposes is off the table. Due to a trade embargo and travel restrictions implemented in 1961, U.S. citizens may only enter the country for specific reasons, like visiting family, journalism requirements, or humanitarian projects. Until this ban is lifted, if it ever does, Kim Anno’s ¡Quba! is our only window into the Cuban way of life. Thankfully, we have a front-row seat to their LGBTQ revolution.