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Poster for Memories of Underdevelopment

Memories of Underdevelopment

Seen it?

1968 | 99 min | Drama

Sunday Safe Betearly rating

Why it’s a Sunday Safe Bet

Critics loved it (96% on Rotten Tomatoes), though it had soft box office and little lasting buzz. A safe bet when you want something reliable.

Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.

Is it for you?

Who'll love it
Made for anyone who loves a strong drama.
The mood
Thoughtful and character-driven.
The pace
Takes its time with its characters, at 1 hr 39 min.
What might put you off
  • It's in Spanish, so expect subtitles (or a dub).
  • Made in 1968: an older pace and style.

In the aftermath of the Bay of Pigs incident, Sergio chooses to stay behind in Cuba while his wife and family escape to neighboring Miami. Alone in a brave new world, Sergio observes the constant threat of foreign invasion while chasing young women all over Havana. He finally meets Elena, a young girl he seeks to mould into the image of his ex-wife, but at what cost to himself?

How it earned its rating

  • CriticsVery strong

    96% on Rotten Tomatoes

  • AudiencesNot counted

    Not measured yet: not enough ratings

  • AwardsNot counted

    No major awards or nominations

  • Box office & staying powerBelow par

    $33K worldwide; still draws a steady audience long after release

  • Buzz & cultural impactBelow par

    About 19K people sought it out in the past year

Trailer

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Cast & crew

Directed by Tomás Gutiérrez Alea

  • Sergio CorrieriSergio Carmona Mendoyo
  • Daisy GranadosElena
  • Eslinda NúñezNoemi
  • Omar ValdésPablo
  • René de la CruzElena's brother
  • Yolanda Farr
  • Ofelia González
  • Jose Gil Abad
  • Daniel Jordan
  • Luis López