Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny will headline the historical drama ‘Porto Rico,’ marking his debut as a lead actor following roles in films like ‘Bullet Train.’ The film is directed by Grammy-winning rapper René Pérez Joglar, known as Residente, in his feature film directorial debut. ‘Porto Rico’ is described as an “epic Caribbean western” that presents a gripping narrative inspired by the true origins of Puerto Rico.
The cast includes notable actors Edward Norton, Javier Bardem, and Viggo Mortensen in supporting roles. While an official plot synopsis has not been disclosed, the project focuses on uncovering and presenting Puerto Rico’s history, which Pérez Joglar notes has often been contested or misrepresented.
Pérez Joglar co-wrote the screenplay alongside Alexander Dinelaris, the Oscar-winning writer behind ‘Birdman’ and ‘The Revenant.’ Alejandro González Iñárritu, who directed those films, serves as an executive producer for ‘Porto Rico.’
In a statement, Pérez Joglar expressed a lifelong aspiration to create a film about his homeland, emphasizing the importance of telling its story with “intensity and honesty.” He stated, “This film is a reaffirmation of who we are — told with the intensity and honesty that our history deserves.”
The production is managed by Pérez Joglar and Erick Douât under 1868 Studios, a partnership between Pérez Joglar, Sony Music Latin-Iberia, and Sony Music Vision supporting culturally driven storytelling. Edward Norton and Bill Migliore, along with Michael Bederman, produce through Class 5 Films, known for projects such as ‘The Painted Veil’ and ‘Motherless Brooklyn.’ Norton described the film as part of a tradition of deeply impactful cinema that combines visceral drama and cultural exploration.
Live Nation Studios, Class 5 Films, and several strategic partners are backing the film. Representation for sales is handled by UTA Independent Film Group.
February has been a significant month for Bad Bunny, who recently headlined the Super Bowl Halftime Show alongside performers including Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin, highlighting Puerto Rican culture to an audience averaging 128.2 million viewers. Earlier, he made history as the first Spanish-language artist to win album of the year at the Grammys for his album ‘Debí Tirar Más Fotos.’
‘Porto Rico’ aims to shed light on an important chapter of Caribbean history with a high-profile cast and creative team, poised to bring an authentic and powerful story to the screen.