Bitter Cane (1983): cast, story & where to watch

1983 · Film · ★ 9

Bitter Cane poster

Released in 1983, Bitter Cane is a documentary film directed by Ben Dupuy, running about 76 minutes.

What it’s about. Filmed in secret under the dictatorship of Jean-Claude Duvalier, this incisive documentary explores the effects of foreign exploitation and oppression on Haitian society. From peasant coffee farms in the rugged tropical mountains to steamy U.S.-leased or -owned sweatshops in the teeming capital, the film takes the viewer on a journey through Haitian history to a deeper grasp of the country’s political economy. After the fall of Duvalier’s regime in 1986, students and popular organizations projected the film on movie screens, walls, and bedsheets in Haiti’s countryside and cities to raise political consciousness and understanding of the difficult anti-imperialist struggle that lay ahead.

How it landed. With an audience score of 9.0/10, Bitter Cane sits among the best-reviewed titles in the catalogue.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Bitter Cane page.

If you liked it. Fans of Bitter Cane tend to enjoy One Direction: This Is Us, Burn the Stage: The Movie, BTS World Tour: Love Yourself - Japan Edition and Senna.

Frequently asked

Where can I watch Bitter Cane (1983)?
Streaming, rental and purchase options for Bitter Cane change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
Is Bitter Cane worth watching?
Bitter Cane holds an audience score of 9.0 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy documentary. Most viewers rate it highly.
When was Bitter Cane released?
Bitter Cane was released in 1983, with a runtime of about 76 minutes.