"Expertly crafted and beautifully paced, like a great piece of music." - Joshua Bell
Ilmar and Aldo are virtuoso Cuban-born brothers living on opposite sides of a geopolitical chasm a half century wide. Tracking their parallel lives, poignant reunion, and momentous first performances together, Los Hermanos/The Brothers offers a nuanced, often startling view of estranged nations through the lens of music and family.
Developed in association with:
LOS HERMANOS / THE BROTHERS
WHY THIS STORY?
In Cuba art is central to national identity. The island of 11 million people has outsized influence in dance and music worldwide. At the cultural vanguard in any country, artists are some of Cuba's most salient ambassadors, with a history of crossing divides that seem intractable to political leaders. Since the 1990s, Cuban artists and musicians have been tasked with bringing currency into an ailing economy, and allowed opportunities to travel, sell, and perform their work. Their privilege places them in an unusual position, allowing for some independence from the socialist economy. Those who stayed, like Aldo, love their country—and criticize it. Those who left, like Ilmar, love their country—and criticize it. With more possibilities on the table, the Gavilán brother’s dynamic and visually compelling story gives a unique and personal perspective on the evolving relationship between the U.S. and Cuba.