Biography of a renowned cinematographer:
Born in Spain, he made a pivotal move to Cuba at the tender age of 18 to join his exiled anti-Franco father, who had fled the country to escape persecution. This life-changing decision marked the beginning of his journey in the world of cinema.
In Havana, he founded a cineclub, where he honed his skills by writing film reviews and engaging with like-minded individuals who shared his passion for the art form. His innate talent and dedication eventually led him to pursue higher education in Rome at the prestigious Centro Sperimentale.
Upon his return to Cuba, he directed six short films, cementing his reputation as a talented and innovative filmmaker. His impressive portfolio also included two shorts shot in New York, showcasing his versatility and adaptability in different environments.
The 1959 Cuban revolution brought significant changes to his life, as he returned to the island to work on several documentaries for the Castro regime. However, his creative expression was soon stifled when two of his shorts, Gente en la playa (1960) and La Tumba Francesca, were banned from public display.
Seeking new opportunities and artistic freedom, he relocated to Paris, where he became the go-to cameraman for the esteemed directors Éric Rohmer and François Truffaut. This marked the beginning of a highly successful Hollywood career, which spanned over two decades.
In his later years, he co-directed two documentaries that highlighted the human rights situation in Cuba, including Improper Conduct (1984),which focused on the persecution of gay people, and Nadie escuchaba (1987). His impressive portfolio also included shooting commercials for renowned fashion brands such as Giorgio Armani and Calvin Klein.
Throughout his illustrious career, he left an indelible mark on the world of cinema, earning him the reputation as one of the highest appraised contemporary cinematographers. Unfortunately, his life was cut short due to cancer, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and influence generations of filmmakers to come.
