The artist René Pérez Joglar, known as Residente, will debut as a film director with Porto Rico, a historical drama about the origins of Puerto Rico that will bring together a first-class cast led by Bad Bunny, Javier Bardem, Edward Norton and Viggo Mortensen.
The feature film —co-written by Residente and Oscar-winning screenwriter Alexander Dinelaris ($Birdman)— is described as a historical drama and Caribbean western inspired by real events that will explore the island's complex colonial history. Residente himself stated that he "has dreamed of making a film about his country since he was a child" and that this story is a reaffirmation of Puerto Rican identity told with intensity and honesty.
The project marks the first leading role in cinema for Bad Bunny, after his appearances in Bullet Train and Caught Stealing, and has the backing of prominent names behind the scenes: Alejandro G. Iñárritu serves as executive producer along with other associated studios. Norton also participates as a producer and has indicated that the film is part of a tradition of historical dramas that combine visceral narrative and iconic characters.
Residente, winner of multiple Grammy and Latin Grammy awards both in his musical career with Calle 13 and in personal projects, thus ventures into cinema with a story that seeks to rescue and place a unique perspective on Puerto Rican history at the center.
No filming or release dates have been announced yet, nor additional details about other cast members, but Porto Rico is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious film projects of the year.