The Charles Chaplin movie theater recently hosted the premiere of “Neurotica Anonima or Sin Miedo a la Vida,” a 90-minute cinematic masterpiece that serves as both a tribute to Cuban cinema and international film artistry. The production, which garnered enthusiastic applause from audiences, represents a significant contribution to contemporary Cuban filmmaking.
Co-written by renowned Cuban actor Jorge Perugorria and acclaimed actress Mirta Ibarra—who also stars as the protagonist—the film follows the compelling narrative of Iluminada, an usherette at the neighborhood Cuba movie theater facing imminent closure by authorities. Ibarra, whose distinguished filmography includes landmark titles such as “Adorables Mentiras” (1991) and the internationally celebrated “Fresa y Chocolate” (1993), revealed in an exclusive interview with Prensa Latina that the film addresses two fundamental themes: the societal mistreatment of women and the urgent need for cinematic revitalization.
The production stands as a poignant homage to the late director Juan Carlos Tabio (1943-2021), who directed the influential “Plaff or Demasiado Miedo a la Vida” (1988). This intentional tribute inspired the film’s title, “Neurotica Anonima or Sin Miedo a la Vida” (Neurotic Anonymous or Not Afraid of Life), reflecting both continuity and evolution in Cuban cinematic tradition.
Featuring an ensemble of Cuba’s most distinguished acting talent, the film showcases Joel Angelino as the projectionist at the Cuba movie theater and Iluminada’s close friend. Angelino previously shared scenes with Ibarra in both the original play and the seminal film “Fresa y Chocolate.” The stellar cast further includes Fernando Hechavarria as an architect, Osvaldo Doimeadios as a psychiatrist, Andrea Doimeadios portraying the younger Iluminada, and Nestor Jimenez as the delegate. Additional performances are delivered by Paula Ali, Mireya Chapman, Tahimi Alvarino, Barbaro Marin, Mario Limonta, Hilario Pena, Felix Beaton, and Luis Silva.
This collaborative production brings together the Cuban Film Institute (ICAIC), Itaca Films, and An Ag Studios Company, with Ernesto Granado serving as director of photography. The musical landscape features original compositions by maestro Jose Maria Vitier complemented by additional music from Venezuelan record producer Andres Levin, creating an auditory experience that enhances the film’s emotional depth and cultural resonance.