Get curated editors’ picks, peeks behind the scenes, film recommendations and more.
Part of a Cuban tradition dating back to the 19th century, the lector de tabaqueria is tasked with reading to entertain the workers, or rollers, in cigar factories. But with radio and television increasingly filling the noise void above the rustle of rolling papers, this unique job is on the verge of being automated away. This short documentary from the Bulgarian-born director Yulia Piskuliyska captures Gricel Valdés-Lombillo Pérez, one of the last remaining lectoras, at work in a cigar factory in Havana. Flanked by a painting of Fidel Castro and a bust of the Cuban national hero Jose Martí, the charismatic Gricel regales her audience with a magazine article on the many wonders of onions, and a fanciful parable on the value of hard work. Between readings, she joins the workers on the floor, chatting, joking and testing the product. Captured with a skilful observational touch, the resulting short film is a charming and intriguing slice of Cuban life, labour and culture.
Director: Yulia Piskuliyska
Producer: Leonardo Rego
video
Engineering
A close-up look at electronic paper reveals its exquisite patterns – and limitations
9 minutes
video
Architecture
West Africa was once an architectural laboratory. Is it time for a revival?
12 minutes
video
Work
A Swedish expat in the Philippines wonders: what’s up with people sleeping at work?
14 minutes
video
Art
‘If you’re creative, why can’t you create a solution?’ One artist’s imaginative activism
17 minutes
video
The ancient world
An ancient Roman’s hilarious (and perhaps relatable) response to a social snub
2 minutes
video
Death
A hunter’s lyrical reflection on the humbling business of being mortal
6 minutes
video
Rituals and celebrations
Meet the entrepreneur whose business is crafting perfect peak experiences
12 minutes
video
Human rights and justice
A reporter orphaned by night raids in Afghanistan investigates their cruel legacy
17 minutes
video
Work
Does capitalism make ‘non-playable characters’ of us all? An uncanny exploration
21 minutes