The story of the old Cuban fisherman whose idol was Joe Di Maggio. Tells of his epic battle with sharks for his giant fish.
While her young son is away visiting his father, 42-year-old African-American investment analyst Stella takes a spur-of-the-moment trip to Jamaica. There, she meets Winston Shakespeare, a tall, handsome, sexy, Jamaican. He's the man of her dreams in every way... except one: he's only 20-years-old.
Set against the backdrop of Bahamian homophobia the film tells the story of Jonny, a young white artist, who falls in love with a bisexual black man named Romeo.
Elza is a riveting, deeply personal story about the emotional journey of a young Parisian woman returning home to her native island of Guadeloupe. Bernadette (Mariette Monpierre) has tried hard to give her daughter everything. She is thrilled when Elza (Stana Roumillac), the first college graduate in the family, completes her master's degree. But Elza breaks her mother's heart by running off to Guadeloupe in search of a distant childhood memory: the father she barely remembers. Based on director Mariette Monpierre's own life experience, this feature debut captures the passion and contradictions of a family in transition while offering a rare insider's view of Caribbean culture.
A femme fatale leaves New York to escape an old boyfriend and establishes herself on the island of Trinidad.
An interview/profile of Jose Andres, an esteemed Spanish chef with restaurants in America, who has been feeding the people of Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. Andres also provides humanitarian efforts in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, where he spearheaded the effort to eliminate the use of coal-burning ovens.
In a style similar to "Wonders of the African World," Skip Gates will travel to places in Latin America where Africa has touched the continent with lasting cultural results to explore what happens when African and Hispanic worlds meet. In the Dominican Republic, explore how race has been socially constructed in a society whose people reflect centuries of inter-marriage and how the country’s troubled history with Haiti informs notions about racial classification. In Haiti, hear the story of the birth of the first-ever Black republic and investigate the slaves’ hard fight for liberation over Napoleon Bonaparte’s French Empire.
For many decades, hundreds of Venezuelan men in search of economic opportunity have sailed forty miles across the Caribbean from Venezuela to the island of Curaçao in small wooden boats to sell tropical fruits and vegetables in Curaçao's floating market, leaving behind their families in the coastal fishing villages of Venezuela for months at a time. Continuing a tradition passed down from father to son for generations, they form a Venezuelan community along the quays of downtown Willemstad, capital of Curaçao.
Haiti, a nation forged by a slave rebellion 200 years ago, still carries the scars of its independence and abandonment. Subjected to an endless stream of tyrannical regimes, Haiti appeared to emerge from oppression and dictatorship with the return of a charismatic young priest who defied a brutal military regime, only to be swallowed once again in despair and dependency. This is a nation caught in a tragic, downward spiral. Its economy broken, its land denuded, its children hungry. Through the perspective of two administrations handling of Haiti, one can see why the U.S. has difficulty in exporting democracy, and building respect for human rights. From sources working in Haiti with the government, and rebel insurgents, and convicted drug smugglers, the film follows the violent events leading to the departure of President Aristide. Many participants in his ouster in February 2004 appear in the film. Failing Haiti is not only a story about the continuing tragedy of Haiti, but is also a story of America s attempt to impose western democratic values on a society steeped in profoundly distinct traditions and culture.
This is a vivid portrayal of a year in the life of the Ortiz family -- hard working Dominican immigrants who live frugally in Brooklyn and dream of retiring one day in their native country. Their American-born daughters have different ideas and aspirations. These bittersweet contradictions form the core of the film as we watch the family sort out the rewards and the costs of pursuing the American dream.
The numbers alone are stunning: 8 million inhabitants, 70 percent of whom live below the poverty line; a life expectancy of 50 years; a 65 percent illiteracy rate; and a 70 percent unemployment rate. Such is the recent population in Haiti, which ironically had its origins cast in optimism: the Haitians were the first people to abolish slavery in 1797 and establish a black republic. Yet the following years have brought the island a succession of violence, chaotic politics, and the railroading of national sovereignty for the benefit of few. This thought-provoking documentary traces what Jean-Bertrand Aristide calls Haiti’s “linear history” back to its discovery by Columbus in the late 15th century and the violent process of colonization to the present.
Even though it is only 90 miles from the coast of Florida, Cuba feels a world away. The classic cars, the architecture, the music, and the people all combine to create the sights and sounds of Havana. Dr. Sanjay Gupta traveled to Havana to learn more about the Cuban healthcare system. Despite being one of the poorest countries, Cuba's healthcare is relatively strong in many ways. From a big emphasis on screenings and preventative care to vaccine innovations, Cuba has a lot to offer the medical field. Make the rounds with a family doctor through the streets of Havana and visit the lab where researchers created a lung cancer vaccine, sparking interest in the United States. And take a ride through Havana's old town in a classic car - the best way to see this historic city.
In the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, Cuba is an island teeming with exotic biodiversity: from coral reefs pulsating with life to five-foot-long iguanas. As international relations ease, what will become of this wildlife sanctuary?
The Word Is Love: Jamaica's Michael Manley is the title of Vaughan's full-length documentary that strings together over 3 hours of historical footage and stimulating interviews. Its cast is a "who's who" list of persons who were closest to Manley during his lifetime, from members of his cabinet to members of his family. A very complete picture of a fearless leader is painted in The Word Is Love.
In the early morning hours of March 13, 1979 a small but determined group took action to overthrow their brutal authoritarian government. What followed was a mass uprising that ushered in a new government determined to put the people first.
In March of 2001, forty years after the Bay of Pigs invasion of Cuba in 1961, five Cuban-American Veterans traveled to Havana for an international conference devoted to the invasion. For some it was the first time they had stepped foot on Cuban soil since their release from Castro's prisons in 1963. But all of them understood that their presence in Havana would put them on a collision course with the often violent Cuban-American political forces in south Florida. A list of notables traveled with them: including Richard Goodwin; Arthur Schlesinger, Jr.; JFK's sister, Jean Kennedy Smith; and Sam Halpern, the ex-CIA operative who ran Kennedy's infamous Operation Mongoose, the goal of which had been the assassination of Fidel Castro. Appropriate counterparts on the Cuban side were expected to attend, including the Commandante himself.
Papiamentu is a creole language that was born during the slave trade era on the Caribbean islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao. The slaves used the languages of their different European colonizers such as Spanish, Dutch, English or Portuguese and created a new hybrid form of communication. It first started as a pidgin, and over the centuries it has evolved into a more complex creole language, becoming the native language of the islanders. But Bonarians are also well known for being multilingual, they can easily switch between four languages. Today, Papiamentu is thriving in new ways as new-coming immigrants are starting to learn the creole language. In this documentary we will travel to the furthermost part of The Netherlands to discover the stories behind new speakers of Papiamentu on the island of Bonaire, and how they navigate this multicultural and multilingual environment.
A journey through the political, economic and social conditions that determined the emergence of the Trujillo dictatorship in the Dominican Republic. The documentary film also offers a moving vision of more than twenty years of Dominican history, from 1916 to 1937. For this purpose, it uses materials of the time: photographs, documents, recordings of speeches by Trujillo and his close collaborators, as well as other spectacular audiovisual resources.
On the island of Hispaniola two worlds face each other: Haiti to the west, the Dominican Republic to the east. There is poverty, corruption and drug-trafficking in Haiti, while an economic boom linked to tourism has occurred in the Dominican Republic. The border is plagued by daily violence and tension. Formerly a thriving, prosperous French possession inhabited by descendants of African slaves, Haiti is now one of the poorest countries in the world. The film looks at the inhabitants of one Haitian town close to the border, Ouanaminthe, which is suffering severe economic, social, political and health crises. In order to survive, many cross the border to sell their wares in the markets, paying a stiff border tax and undergoing humiliating treatment from the soldiers and the Dominican townspeople.
Although the Fireburn took place in the 1800s, and on an island in the Caribbean, it is globally relevant today. The Fireburn addresses the heart of humanity and shows us what happens when people are robbed of their inalienable rights. In 1848 the current day US Virgin Islands were Danish territory and were called the Danish West Indies (DWI). On July 3, 1848 all enslaved in the DWI were emancipated and proclaimed free by the governor of the islands. However, 30 years later, the freed workers were still suffering under the oppressive rules of the landowners and government. Inhumane treatment and poor work conditions existed for the laborers who had difficulty earning a decent living.
Scott Pelley reports from Havana on the country's reaction to news that the U.S. and Cuba will normalize diplomatic relations for the first time in more than 50 years.
America imposed a full trade embargo against Cuba 55 years ago, in an attempt to crack Fidel Castro's communist regime. Antonio José Ponte, an exiled Cuban writer, and Aleida Guevara, the daughter of Che Guevara, reveal how the embargo shaped Havana's revolutionary story.
This exploration of Haitian society of the late 19th and early 20th centuries focuses on the tormented life of one of Haiti's most important authors and prominent political figures, Jacques Roumain. In his perceptive writings, Roumain raised questions about the issues facing Haiti that remain relevant today. Some of Jacques Roumain's best writings were translated by the legendary African-American poet Langston Hughes. The question is raised: what legacy has Jacques Roumain left for the future of Haitian youth.
Commercial and political rivalries in the Caribbean region in the 17th century resulted in the construction of this massive series of fortifications on a rocky promontory, built to protect the important port of Santiago. This intricate complex of forts, magazines, bastions and batteries is the most complete, best-preserved example of Spanish-American military architecture, based on Italian and Renaissance design principles.
A hard-hitting Cuban rap group takes on the Cuban state. They appear out of nowhere and disappear just as quickly. Their protest lyrics are catching on like wildfire, resonating with discontented Cubans. They get no airtime and their young fans face persecution from the police. An edgy, dangerous documentary with a powerful soundtrack. Viva Cuba Libre casts an unflinching eye over the troubling reality of modern-day Cuba.
Several generations of Aruban 'carnavalistas' prepare themselves for the Carnival of 2017 and discuss it's future on Aruba. Will the carnival tradition still be alive for the next generations? Experienced carnivalista Lienchie pepares her granddaughter for the children's Carnival Queen competition, on top of leading her own carnival group. The leaders of carnival group Little Groovers aim to win the price for best ambiance in the children's parade.
This musical journey begins in Nassau, the capital city of the Bahamas, during the annual Junkanoo celebration, where the city explodes with vibrant color and celebratory music, as revelers dressed in elaborate costumes parade down the streets dancing to the African-rooted rhythms of Bahamian music. Music Voyager visits the Junkanoo Museum, tries on a traditional costume, and even joins in a rehearsal, trading licks with the Colours marching band. The exploration of Junkanoo continues on into the mysteries of the past, yet also demonstrates how the people of today's Bahamas are working to keep their own unique traditions going strong far into the future.
In this program, check in with some of today’s most popular reggae artists in Jamaica, who are keeping reggae going strong. Travel to St. Thomas to visit with Tarrus Riley, one of the hottest young reggae singers, and enjoy an unplugged performance next to a one-room shack by the sea, and then a blazing show at Jamaica’s biggest music festival, Sumfest. The team journeys to the hills outside of Kingston for a visit with reggae star Richie Spice, and then visits with Etana, a young singer who blends reggae and neo-soul, and has become hugely popular in Jamaica. Etana and her band treat viewers to a stunning acoustic performance on the picturesque Goldeneye Beach.
Founded in 1959, Cuba‘s leading contemporary dance company has had a profound influence on Cuban dance and dancers. Over the past 53 years Danza Contemporánea de Cuba has evolved into an exotic hybrid of contemporary, classical, and Caribbean styles. They move with an old-fashioned juiciness, reminiscent of the Martha Graham Company, but without being old-fashioned. Expect an exciting modern dance performance to the beats of the future from choreographer George Cèspedes.
Music Voyager explores the history of Jamaican music from its African roots to the cusp of the reggae revolution. The team heads to the jungle for an entrancing kumina drumming session with the Akwaaba Drummers that reveals the African underpinning of the island’s music. Back in Kingston, Music Voyager connects with guitar legend Ernest Ranglin for a lesson on the development of ska and rocksteady, and an all-star jam session with Sly Dunbar and other greats. The program ends at the magnificent Strawberry Hill resort for an intimate concert with Marcia Griffiths, a member of Bob Marley’s band and a star in her own right.
Every year in Jacmel, on the south coast of Haiti, one of the most spectacular carnivals in the Caribbean takes place. In one of the world’s poorest countries, that has endured slavery, bloody dictatorships, natural disasters and epidemics, festivities take on an intensity that is not found elsewhere.
Travel to Cat Island to discover the roots of rake and scrape, the local music style Bahamians call their own. After a beach-side performance by traditionalists, Bo Hog and the Rooters, head to Grand Bahama in search of Stileet, a new generation rake and scrape singer, who is bringing an urban attitude to the style. Then, explore the roots of spiritual music with a fireside performance by multigenerational a Capella group, The Region Bells. From there, Shabak, the most popular contemporary gospel group in the Bahamas, gives an uplifting performance in a beautiful 17th century cathedral.
This wide-ranging and much-honored documentary explores Puerto Rico's rich cultural traditions and untold history, revealing the remarkable stories of its revolutionaries and abolitionists, poets and patriots -- all of whose struggles for national identity unfold within the complex web of relations between Puerto Rico and the United States.
Chantal Loïal, Guadeloupe choreographer and dancer, crosses her own life with that of Sarah Baartman, known as the Hottentot Venus, represented in Abdellatif Kechiche's film The black Venus, in order to create a voluptuous, surprising, and humorous solo. She points out similarities between the two women's lives and, instead of endlessly replaying their dramas, shows us a body that is gradually being freed from oppressive stares in order to blossom.
Simon Reeve begins his journey on the island of Hispaniola, then explores both the light and dark sides of the Dominican Republic. He joins the Police Anti-Narcotics Division in the war against international drug cartels in Santo Domingo then crosses the border to Haiti and visits the notorious tented camps of Cite de Soleil. He also discovers a vibrant, colorful and thriving side to life in Haiti born out of the country’s unique history.
In the second program, Simon Reeve goes to Barbados, one of the wealthiest islands in the Caribbean. Learn how high-end tourism has impacted life in Barbados. In Venezuela—a poor nation, despite having some of the largest gas and oil reserves in the world—Simon looks at the mismanagement of natural resources and meets the inventive people running businesses from a ‘shanty town in the sky’, an abandoned skyscraper that is home to more than 3,000 people. Moving on to Colombia, he meets the banana farmers still living with the scars of decades of civil conflict but finds a country well on the road to recovery.
Simon Reeve begins this final episode on the remote Caribbean coast of Nicaragua, a country facing monumental change with the construction of a new transoceanic waterway set to rival the Panama Canal. Reeve then travels to the Honduran island of Roatán, a haven for marine life and tourists—as well as for people fleeing unimaginable violence on mainland Honduras. He ends his Caribbean journey on the iconic island of Jamaica, discovering a country confronting its violent reputation head-on as its police force cracks down on corruption. He spends time with young people who have rejected gang life and who offer a model of hope for future generations.
The beautiful Caribbean islands of Antigua & Barbuda tell a story of hospitality and culture. With music as our guide, we follow the trail across the islands to find the heartbeat of the country through its rhythms. Along the way, we get a taste of the amazing cuisines, the vibrant countryside, and the stunning oceans. From the sounds of calypso to the carnival celebrations, the pulse of Antigua & Barbuda is calling.
This video is about the island that has it all...smashing nightlife, fantastic beaches, turquoise bays, proud and welcoming populace... Barbados.
Join world-renowned chef Jose Andres on an exploration of the most unknown island in the Caribbean, Haiti. Jose is convinced we can change the world through the power of food, and understand a culture by exploring what, when and how its people eat. Follow Jose into the heart of this mysterious island; through its cuisine and discover the history and culture - and see into the future - of a proud and rarely understood people.
These reefs, once the most famous in the world, are now struggling just to survive. Local fishermen have to work much harder to make a living. They team up with conservationists, the Jamaican government, and “Golden Shadow” scientists to set up a fishing sanctuary, hoping to restore their endangered fishery.
A perfect case study of a volcano in an LEDC. The resource provides a clear explanation of the processes causing Montserrat's recent volcanic activity. It then assesses the social, economic and environmental impacts of the continuing eruptions. The likelihood of Montserrat becoming self-sufficient is explored with sections looking at: the potential of Montserrat's tourist industry; strategies for disaster response and preparedness; and projects to improve biodiversity.
A tour of Old San Juan, founded in 1521 and a national heritage site, offers viewers a rare opportunity to visit this capital city's most historic homes and glimpse the Puerto Rico of over 500 years ago. The architecture reflects the Spanish style, and homes were built like fortresses. Only one gate remains to enter the city, but San Juan now combines its history with a modern vibrancy that entices visitors to shop and enjoy the vistas. Small country inns called paradores are popular tourist accommodations, and many were once private homes. These paradores dot the countryside, and some are quite near fishing villages where visitors can rent boats to explore the area and watch oyster fishermen working the shoreline. The next oldest settlement in Puerto Rico is San German, known as "La Ciudad de las Lomas" or "City of Hills." Here you may stroll the cobblestone streets and view the 250 historic buildings in this appealing town that is filled with old world charm.
The Caribbean island of St. Kitts offers peace, relaxation, and good food while exploring native customs and learning about native textiles. Here you will find adventures for everyone: there is a rainforest to tour, and for history buffs there is Brimstone Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of historical, cultural, and architectural significance.
After the discovery of the island in 1492 by Christopher Columbus, Santo Domingo became the site of the first cathedral, hospital, customs house and university in the Americas. This colonial town, which was founded in 1498, was laid out on a grid pattern, which became the model for almost all town-planners in the New World.
MC Library provides both physical media (DVDs) and streaming films. You can search for films (both DVDs and streaming films) using RaptorSearch, or search in an individual streaming media database.
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Current Montgomery College students, faculty, and staff can borrow materials from any MC Library location with their MC ID card. In addition, these users can access electronic resources, such as e-books, from anywhere by entering their M number when prompted.
Community users (those not currently affiliated with MC) can apply for a community user card, which allows them to borrow materials and use other library resources. Community users are not eligible to use electronic resources from off-campus but can use electronic resources on campus.
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