My name is Matthew Gelb and I'm the director of the documentary short film, Prince of Smoke. I'm in the final stages of post production within the U.S. on my debut film, an artistic look into Cuban cigar making, that will premiere at upcoming film festivals. I appreciate any interest and support.
Short Summary
Young Cuban tobacco farmer and cigar maker, Hirochi Robaina, follows in his famous grandfather’s footsteps as he fights climate change and torrential rains to bring in the harvest and preserve the 171 year-old family legacy. In his time, Hirochi’s grandfather, Alejandro Robaina, grew the largest and most perfect tobacco leaves --- prized by the legendary cigar brand Cohiba and acclaimed by Fidel, himself. Skipping a generation, Alejandro had anointed Hirochi as his heir before he died. Now without his grandfather at his side, Hirochi has to meet the challenges of a depleted ozone layer and its effect on the crop, as well as battling layers of government bureaucracy. Shot on location in the Cuban tobacco cradle, the verdant province of Pinar del Rio. Directed by Matthew Gelb and produced by David Gelb (director of Jiro Dreams of Sushi).
What We Need
- We are hoping to raise a goal of $7500 to help secure rights for the music and archival photos in the film.
- Additionally, this funding will go towards final sound mixing, color correction, and remaining polish necessary before the festival circuit.
Thank you for your support!!