Emancipado is set in 1890.  The film focuses on the lives of several Black characters as they emerge from who they were in Western society, to what they become as Africans. At the helm of the story is the young, Ifemorena, an Afro-Cuban woman from a family of Flamenco artists.  Ifemorena is being groomed for greatness by her grandmother, known around town as Esmeralda the Black "gypsy". Ifemorena loves Africa and the mysteries that she observes when she watches her father, a Yoruba Lukumi, dance the ñáñigo ritual masquerade on the streets of Havana. Ifemorena learns about the possibility of leaving on a boat during a forest ritual. She confesses her desire to leave to her brother, Aldo, who is training to work in the Catholic Church.  He, at first cautions her to stay home.  Ifemorena decides to escape Havana after witnessing the brutal lynching of her cousin, Paco, a young Black man.

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What are we doing now?  We will be filming scenes set in Cuba in December and the first episode "L'Amant Anonyme" in 2025-2026.

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And what after that?  The Third Episode:  Lagos Dreamers

Ifemorena struggles and perseveres through a dangerous journey across the Atlantic.  She becomes a leader and tries to make a way for her people in Lagos, Nigeria.  She helps those in need like the banditos who get deported from Cuba. These guys are a motley crew of former thieves, war criminals, and veterans in search of a way out of their misery. Chi Chi Gonzales, a Black Mexican, and Paco, an Afro-Cuban are leaders of the gang and spend their time stealing from the Victorians that they perceive as having too much wealth.

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Why tell stories of the Emancipated?  Their bravery and choices may help us guide our own. 

Please consider making a contribution to help us along the way. 
 

Click here to make a contribution.

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