Every Sunday, deep in the Callejón de Hamel neighbourhood of Havana, you’ll find Rumba Morena. The band is made up of nine Cuban drummers, dancers and singers, all performing with astounding passion and fervour. Guaranteed, It’s like nothing you’ve seen before.

Whilst it’s not unusual to hear the sound of rumba music drifting from the back-alleys of Havana, Rumba Morena are different. Unlike nearly every other rumba band in Cuba, Rumba Morena is entirely made up of women. 

Living in some of the poorest neighbourhoods in the city, these nine women have led a hand-to-mouth existence and, over the last fourteen years, their controversial performances have caused uproar amongst the - mostly male - old guard who dominate the island’s music scene.

Despite their extremely poor socio-economic background and a legacy of marginalisation, these women are unapologetic in their calls for equality and respect. “We will continue to give them all a hard time…we’re saying it as it is” remarks Diunis, the central character in 'Uproar' and the leader of Rumba Morena.  “There is enough Rumba Morena to last a long time. They better be ready”.

Filmed over two years and many visits to the island, ’Uproar’ tells the story of these inspiring women, offering a snapshot of their struggle to succeed. With Diunis at it's heart, the story demonstrates the power of a deep desire to succeed, no matter the cost.

When a member of the team went to interview Juan de Marcos González  — Bandleader of The Buena Vista Social Club & The Afro-Cuban All-Stars - it was revealing when Juan said “ah, you are making a film about the REAL people of Cuba”.

Who We Are

(Director Moe Najati and Producer Georgia Woolley)

Director: Moe Najati

Moe Najati is a visually arresting storyteller and award winning filmmaker. He has a unique eye for light and colour and an ability to capture the less-seen beauty of the world around him. His short documentary film ‘Daghwah’, about a fishing practice that has been passed down through generations, screened at multiple festivals all over the world. In the film, Moe explores the clash of modernity and tradition with a poetic and romantic sensitivity. After premiering at the American Documentary Film Festival the film also played at the Madrid International Film Festival and the Academy Qualifying Athens International Film and Video Festival.

Moe’s keen interest in the process of filmmaking and the history of his subjects give his films a compelling sense of authority. He is able to imbue his audience with a sense of discovery, as they watch the narrative unfold in gorgeous detail. 

Moe is passionate about making work that speaks to people in a relatable and engaging way, exploring themes that are timely and thought-provoking, constantly striving to uncover the hidden stories of the world.

Link to Daghwah - https://vimeo.com/116340084

Production Company: Villager Films

Villager is an award-winning independent production company based in London, currently working across a wide spectrum of film, ranging from TV commercials, online content and corporates, to short film, music videos, documentary and factual entertainment.

A note from one of the producers, Georgia Woolley:

I am immensely proud of the powerhouse of creatives we have assembled with Moe to make this short documentary happen. At Villager we look to work on films that highlight often untold stories, and we think that this film provides such a unique look at modern Cuba.  Not only is Uproar visually stunning, but the soundtrack alone is worth watching for. We cannot wait to complete the project and share it with you!

www.villagerfilms.com

CREDITS

Director - Moe Najati

Producer - Matt Cooper

Producer - Georgia Woolley

Co-Producer - Aaron Wagner

The Impact 

‘UPROAR’ is much more than a music documentary. The project has been an ambitious undertaking since its inception and now that it is so close to the finish line we really want it to reach the audience it deserves. To tell the stories of people often overlooked within their own peer group, let alone in society, has been central to the ambitions of the film since we began two years ago. The cameras may have stopped rolling but Diunus and the band have continued their struggle against the male dominated rumba scene. They hope to play music festivals in Cuba and the world over, to share their passion, their skill and their dreams. 

The story navigates issues around culture, gender and politics - all of which feels incredibly pertinent today. Our aim is to inform and entertain the audience and, if we can impact conversations on these issues then we will have succeeded in our goal. Uproar is a story which resonates far beyond the Caribbean Island it originates from and we feel audiences will recognise this, relate to it and feel informed and motivated to enact change. 

Diunus, the band leader at the centre of our narrative, has no idea how far her message could potentially reach; all she really wants to do is play music! We really want the opportunity to show off the charisma of her and all of the band members’. Their music is energetic, compelling and full of emotion and this comes through in our story. Rumba Morena have earned their seat at the table, and their music deserves an audience.

Why we need your help

We are seeking support in the form of finishing funds to help us bring Uproar to life. Whilst we have the film ‘in the can’ – we still need to cover all post production costs. From sourcing and licensing the all important music for the film, to sound mixing and final grade, we want to ensure all the hard work that went into the making of the film can come to fruition. This is such a visually and aurally stimulating film, for this film specifically post production is all important.

We are so proud of what we have achieved thus far and what is yet to come for this special short film. We are apportioning some of the money we raise towards a festival campaign, as we want the film to hit the festival circuit and speak to audiences worldwide. A strong festival and marketing plan is being pieced together to give this film the exposure it not only deserves, but needs! We have high hopes for this powerful, female driven film, so we will be putting a strong emphasis on festivals looking for these qualities. 

Click on a pledge, you won't regret it. THANK YOU! 

Risks & Challenges

With any independent short film there are always going to be speed bumps, potholes & at some point a major roadblock. NO EXCEPTIONS. The beauty of this project is we've been there, we've done that! The major hurdles were overcome in the lead up & during the major shoot. We're not saying it's smooth sailing from here on in, but we're almost at the finish line. Our biggest challenge now is completing post production within budget allocations and submission deadlines....EASY!

Other Ways You Can Help

If you don't want to purchase a pledge, there is an option to make a contribution of any amount, anything you can do to support is hugely appreciated! 

If you can't contribute, that doesn't mean you can't help:

• Please get the word out and make some noise about our campaign.
• You can use the Indiegogo share tools!