Emmanuel Martin Hernandez: From Santiago de Cuba to Montreal — The Journey of an Independent Filmmaker

Independent filmmaking requires passion, resilience, and a deep love for storytelling. Few exemplify these qualities as vividly as Emmanuel Martin Hernandez. Born in Santiago de Cuba, Hernandez has journeyed from a childhood inspired by classic cinema to becoming a respected filmmaker in Montreal. His work bridges cultural divides, explores the human condition, and champions the art of independent filmmaking.

A Childhood Inspired by the Masters

Growing up in Santiago de Cuba, Emmanuel’s passion for filmmaking ignited early. Exposed to the works of Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, and Jim Jarmusch, he found inspiration in the masterful storytelling and visual artistry of their films. Cuban television, showcasing international classics like The Godfather and Goodfellas, offered him a window into worlds far beyond his own.

“Watching these films taught me about the world and the complexities of human behavior,” Emmanuel reflects. “They gave me the desire to tell stories that matter.”

Early Steps in Cinema

Emmanuel’s journey began with short films shot in his hometown. His first project, Santiago City (2003), was a testament to his resourcefulness and determination. Working with minimal budgets, he embraced the challenges of independent filmmaking, learning to wear multiple hats — from director and screenwriter to cinematographer and editor.

“As an independent filmmaker, you do it all,” he explains. “You write, you act, you even handle the lighting if necessary. It’s about making your vision a reality, no matter the obstacles.”

Transition to Montreal

Emigrating to Montreal brought both challenges and opportunities. Emmanuel immersed himself in the city’s vibrant film community, working on a variety of sets and honing his craft. His Cuban roots and experiences as an immigrant deeply influenced his storytelling, adding layers of authenticity and emotion to his work.

In Montreal, Emmanuel completed his first feature film, Historias de Ajedrez (2019), a poignant documentary about Cuban chess players. The film earned acclaim for its unique perspective and heartfelt portrayal of its subjects.

Un hombre bajo la influencia: A Turning Point

His second feature film, Un hombre bajo la influencia (2023), marks a significant milestone in Emmanuel’s career. Exploring themes of emigration, isolation, and resilience, the film draws from his own experiences of starting anew in a foreign land.

“This film saved my life,” Emmanuel shares. “It was born out of a difficult time but reminded me of the transformative power of storytelling.”

A Vision for the Future

Currently, Emmanuel is working on his next ambitious project, Asbestos City. Inspired by classic film noir, the story pays homage to masterpieces like Chinatown and The Maltese Falcon while promising a fresh, contemporary narrative. For this project, Emmanuel aims to secure a larger budget to fully realize his vision.

“It’s about crafting something meaningful,” he says. “I want every film I make to connect deeply with its audience.”

Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers

Emmanuel’s journey has been far from easy, but his perseverance offers valuable lessons. He emphasizes the importance of staying true to one’s vision and surrounding oneself with supportive collaborators.

“Filmmaking is a collaborative art,” he notes. “Find people who believe in your vision and work tirelessly to bring it to life.”

Final Thoughts

Emmanuel Martin Hernandez embodies the spirit of independent cinema. From his beginnings in Santiago de Cuba to his current endeavors in Montreal, his journey is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and storytelling. As he continues to create films that bridge cultures and touch hearts, Emmanuel remains an inspiration for filmmakers worldwide.