What is the film 'Culebra Cut' about?

The film 'Culebra Cut' explores Panama's Canal Zone after its return, focusing on a soldier confronting the land's and his own traumas stemming from nearly a century of occupation.

Who is Ana Elena Tejera and what is her connection to the film?

Ana Elena Tejera is the director of 'Culebra Cut,' a film she created drawing on her personal and visceral connection to the Panamanian land marked by occupation.

What historical context does 'Culebra Cut' explore?

'Culebra Cut' revisits the year 2000 and the aftermath of the Canal Zone's return to Panama, examining the lingering impact of nearly 100 years of U.S. occupation.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Panama Film Revisits Canal Zone Occupation's Scars

Panama Film Revisits Canal Zone Occupation's Scars

7 Apr

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Summary

Film explores Panama Canal Zone's return and occupation's aftermath.
Soldier uncovers secrets of a flooded, displaced community.
Director Tejera draws on personal, visceral connection to the land.

Panama Film Revisits Canal Zone Occupation's Scars

Panamanian director Ana Elena Tejera is producing her new fiction film, "Culebra Cut" ("Corte Culebra"). Set in the year 2000, the movie revisits the pivotal moment of the Canal Zone's return to Panama. It examines the enduring impact of nearly 100 years of U.S. occupation.

The film follows Panamanian soldiers entering the former Canal Zone for the first time. Among them is Ernesto, a young soldier ordered to clear an area near a military school. This site is adjacent to a lake that submerged communities for the Canal's construction.