Special screenings of ‘Cuba’ at Imax

About 93 miles south of the tip of Florida lies a land that has been preserved in time, yet poised on the cusp of dramatic change. Despite its geographic proximity to the United States, many Americans have considered Cuba a remote and exotic place for decades.

Through the lens of the documentarians at Golden Gate 3D, a new giant-screen movie offers audiences the chance to cross the Straits of Florida and get to know America’s vibrant southern neighbor.

“Cuba” will transport viewers to the largest island in the Caribbean to explore a land full of traditions and spectacular natural wonders. Special screenings of this new film will be offered at the Tennessee Aquarium Imax Theater on FridaySunday, May 3-5.

“Cuba” provides a colorful window into the Caribbean nation’s history by showcasing its lively culture, meticulously maintained Colonial architecture and pristine ecosystems. The film offers breathtaking views of lush landscapes and dives into iridescent tropical reefs before whirling through streets beating with music and dance in the heart of Havana. Through the eyes of Cuban artists, historians and scientists, the film provides an intimate look at the island nation.

Audiences will be stunned by the vibrance of the coral reefs lying off Cuba’s shores. Spotted eagle rays are another star of its underwater scenery, gliding serenely alongside Caribbean reef sharks. Whale sharks are another species known to cruise Cuba’s warm coastal waters.

Filmmakers were granted an unprecedented level

If you go

› What: “Cuba”

› Where:

Tennessee Aquarium Imax Theater, 201 Chestnut St.

› When: 4 and 7 p.m. FridaySaturday, May 3-4; 4 p.m. Sunday, May 5

› Admission:

$11.95 adults, $9.95 children 3-12

› For more information:

www.tnaqua. org/imax of access to the country. The scenic beauty of the landscape bursts with color on the giant six-story screen at Imax accompanied by a soundtrack that captures the lively essence of Cuban music.

To purchase tickets: www.tnaqua.org or 1-800-262-0695.

GIANT SCREEN FILMS CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Jardines de la Reina is home to a marine reserve that is one of Cuba’s largest protected national parks. The coral reef and other natural wonders, architecture and culture of Cuba are featured in the Imax film, “Cuba,” which will be shown at the Tennessee Aquarium Imax this weekend.