Charlize Theron Defends Her Cuba Movie  8/21/06

Charlize Theron has hit out at claims a new documentary made by her production company shows a pro-American view of Cuba.

East of Havana tells the tale of three rappers whose music is threatened by censorship on the Communist-run Caribbean island.

It has been accused of ignoring the US trade embargo of Cuba, by critics who suggest the film is making a political statement.

But South African Theron calls the claims "ridiculous", insisting the film carries an important message.

She says, "I think in the film we really address the America-Cuba relationship.

"If there is any political comment it was through (the characters') voices - it's their story not our story.

"In no way are we saying America isn't at fault here.

"If we really made a film about the embargo it wouldn't make sense. It's ridiculous."