An AI-generated video has struck a chord with Cubans on social media by depicting what many describe as "the Cuba we all dream of." The visuals, shared by the account @Vɪsᴍᴀʀᴋ_break_free44, are filled with nostalgia and hope, showcasing a transformed nation: the regime toppled, modern power plants operating at full capacity, vibrant and illuminated cities, stores brimming with goods, and fully renovated homes.
Beyond the visual montage, it was the emotional responses from viewers that truly resonated. Dozens of Cubans living abroad expressed messages laden with pain, hope, and a longing to return to their homeland if such an idyllic vision were ever to materialize. Comments ranged from, "I wouldn't think twice," to "This is a feeling only Cubans will understand," and "May God allow this to happen so I can return, and for all those who couldn't leave."
Others shared sentiments like, "Can I cry with the video?" and "Dreaming of returning to Cuba and being happy again is never too much." One user stated, "There's not a single Cuban on this planet who doesn't miss their homeland. I would return to my roots without hesitation." Another added, "If communism fell and this happened, I'd go back to my land without a second thought." Some even humorously mentioned having their "bags packed like thousands of others" or planning to walk from El Cotorro to Malecón without stopping if the dream came true.
However, there were also voices of skepticism and realism, reminding viewers of Cuba's past wounds and current conditions. Comments such as, "Not even with all the electricity in the world would they give back what they took from me," and "It would be a utopia, and that's impossible. Do you think if Cuba could be fixed, the people would enjoy its benefits? Sadly, no. If they get their hands on it, it'll be to make money, not out of goodwill," reflected a more somber outlook.
Some expressed, "I wouldn't return because that will never happen, keep dreaming because dreaming costs nothing. Cuba has been in ruin for 65 years and will continue to be." Others noted, "I don't want to be pessimistic, but that will never happen, or it will take many more years because Cubans continue enduring blackouts, lack of water, medicine, gas, etc., and do NOTHING to end this dictatorship. Instead of uniting, the entire island distances itself or calls those who protest 'crazy,' instead of coming together."
The video has gone viral not only for the version of Cuba it portrays but for raising a silent question: how many Cubans would return if one day Cuba rose from its ashes?
Questions About the Future of Cuba and Its People
What impact did the AI video have on Cubans living abroad?
The AI video emotionally resonated with many Cubans living abroad, sparking feelings of nostalgia and a deep desire to return to their homeland if the utopian vision depicted ever became reality.
Why did some Cubans react pessimistically to the video?
Some Cubans responded pessimistically due to the longstanding issues and hardships faced in the country, expressing skepticism about the feasibility of such a transformation occurring.
What is the significance of the video going viral?
The video's viral status highlights the deep emotional and cultural connections Cubans have with their homeland, as well as the widespread longing for change and improvement in Cuba's future.