Upon learning about Rubens Riol and his connection to Princeton, as well as his work as a film critic, my curiosity was piqued. Princeton is a member of the prestigious Ivy League, a group of eight elite universities in the northeastern United States, known for including institutions such as Harvard, Yale, and Columbia.
On June 26th, Riol will return to Miami to unveil "The Hedgehog's Ambush: Juggling and Certainties of a Film Critic," a book published in 2025 by Casa Vacía.
Insights into Riol's Cinematic Journey
It's a pleasure to chat with you and get a glimpse into your daily life, Rubens. Born in Pinar del Río and now residing in Philadelphia, what does your new book bring to the table? "The pleasure is mine," Rubens responds. "I never imagined announcing the launch of my book with you and sharing my experiences with CiberCuba readers."
Riol's book offers insights from 20 years of reflecting on both Cuban and global cinema. Rather than providing definitive answers, it aims to cultivate the Hispanic audience in South Florida's understanding of film language and provoke thought about the diverse roles of a film critic today.
From Childhood Fascination to Professional Critique
Riol's love for cinema began in childhood. His grandmother worked at Consolación del Sur's Sala Avellaneda in Pinar del Río, where he spent afternoons after school. There, he was introduced to the world of film projection.
At age 12, he joined a program that taught him how to project and rewind 35mm films, igniting his fascination with cinema. This early exposure laid the foundation for his future in film critique.
Transitioning from Cuba to the U.S.
In 2015, Rubens emigrated to the United States. The initial year was challenging, lacking close family in Miami, yet he soon secured a position at El Nuevo Herald. This led to a column promoting film releases in Miami, allowing him to interview stars like Richard Gere and Salma Hayek.
Riol's journey came full circle when he became the administrator of the Tower Theater on Calle Ocho in 2017, a venue with a rich cinematic history.
Academic Pursuits and Future Endeavors
Currently, as a doctoral candidate at Princeton University, Riol's research delves into the physical dynamics of mass politics in Cuban culture post-1959. Teaching Spanish and Film to American students, he hopes to continue exploring Caribbean language and culture.
Riol emphasizes that his book isn't solely for academics. While it covers topics of academic interest, its accessible language and relatable immigrant experiences aim to engage a broader audience.
The anthology includes film critiques, LGBTQ+ cinema analysis, festival chronicles, and interviews, offering a comprehensive view of his wide-ranging work.
The Meaning Behind "The Hedgehog's Ambush"
The book's title metaphorically reflects a critic's role—balancing strategy, critique, and mediation while occasionally challenging mediocrity. Riol's narrative invites readers to explore unique film universes and connect with beloved actors and movies.
Riol invites all to the book presentation at the Latin Art Core Gallery in Miami on June 26th at 7:00 p.m., a moment he looks forward to sharing with readers and friends.
Speaking with Rubens Riol reveals the journey of a Cuban who turned a village cinema passion into an intellectual pursuit that transcends borders. In "The Hedgehog's Ambush," Riol shares not only cinematic analysis but also a life story shaped by migration, education, and artistic dedication.
We thank him for sharing his memories, challenges, and dreams, and wish him success in his book presentation, doctoral pursuits, and future projects.
Exploring Rubens Riol's Contributions to Film Critique
What is the focus of Rubens Riol's new book?
Riol's book focuses on 20 years of reflection on Cuban and global cinema, aiming to educate the Hispanic audience in South Florida about film language and provoke thought on the role of film critics today.
How did Rubens Riol begin his journey in cinema?
Riol's journey in cinema began during childhood, spending time in his grandmother's workplace at a local cinema in Pinar del Río, which sparked his lifelong passion for film.
How has Rubens Riol's career evolved in the United States?
Upon moving to the U.S., Riol secured a position at El Nuevo Herald and later became the administrator of the Tower Theater, interviewing notable film personalities and expanding his career in film critique.
What is Rubens Riol's academic focus at Princeton University?
Riol is a doctoral candidate specializing in Latin American Studies, researching the impact of mass politics on Cuban culture, while teaching Spanish and Film.