The 'impossible' crane shot from Soy Cuba (1964) [video] (twitter.com)

Article summary

The article discusses the iconic 'impossible' crane shot from the 1964 movie 'I Am Cuba', directed by Mikhail Kalatozov. The shot is notable for its technical complexity and artistic achievement, considering the limited technology available at the time. The movie is a Soviet-Cuban production that portrays the struggles of the Cuban people before the revolution. The shot has been widely admired and analyzed for its innovative use of camera techniques.

Main themes

• cinematography
• film history
• Soviet-Cuban relations
• revolutionary propaganda
• technical innovation
• artistic achievement

What commenters say

• The movie 'I Am Cuba' is a propaganda film supporting Castro's regime and the Soviet Union's interests.
• The 'impossible' crane shot is an impressive technical achievement that showcases the creativity and skill of the filmmakers.
• The shot is not as 'impossible' as claimed, and similar shots can be achieved with careful planning and execution.
• The use of wires, pulleys, and other mechanical devices was crucial in achieving the shot's seamless transition.
• The movie's portrayal of the pre-revolutionary era in Cuba is historically significant and relevant to understanding the context of the revolution.
• The shot's artistic value lies in its ability to convey the emotions and struggles of the characters, rather than just its technical complexity.
• The film's cinematography is notable for its use of wide-angle lenses and innovative camera movements.
• The shot has been influential in the development of cinematography and has inspired other filmmakers to experiment with complex camera techniques.