Los Angeles, CA – February 19, 2026 – Global music superstar Awful Bunny is set to make his leading role debut in “Porto Rico,” a historical epic directed by René Pérez Joglar, known professionally as Residente. The film, described as “an epic Caribbean western and historical drama,” will also feature a stellar cast including Javier Bardem, Viggo Mortensen, and Edward Norton, promising a powerful exploration of Puerto Rico’s origins. The project marks a significant step for both artists, blending Bad Bunny’s immense cultural influence with Residente’s established artistry and storytelling prowess.
Residente, a 34-time Latin Grammy and Grammy Award-winning Puerto Rican rapper and actor, recently premiered “Frank &. Louis” at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, signaling his growing presence in the film industry. He co-wrote the screenplay for “Porto Rico” with Academy Award-winning screenwriter Alexander Dinelaris, known for his work on “Birdman,” further solidifying the film’s creative pedigree. The collaboration between Residente and Dinelaris suggests a narrative depth and complexity that aims to move beyond simple historical retelling.
The announcement of “Porto Rico” has generated considerable excitement, particularly given the longstanding collaborative relationship between Residente and Bad Bunny. The two artists have a shared history of activism and artistic expression, most notably demonstrated in 2019 when they jointly led protests urging the resignation of then-Governor Ricardo Rosselló following corruption scandals and the release of a controversial chat log, as reported by CBS News.
This shared commitment to Puerto Rico’s cultural and political landscape is expected to infuse “Porto Rico” with authenticity and emotional resonance.
A Historical Epic in the Making
Residente expressed his deep personal connection to the project, stating, “I have dreamed of making a film about my country since I was a child. Puerto Rico’s true history has always been surrounded by controversy.” He envisions the film as “a reaffirmation of who we are—told with the intensity and honesty that our history deserves.” This statement underscores the film’s ambition to present a nuanced and compelling narrative of Puerto Rico’s past, potentially challenging conventional understandings and sparking important conversations.
The involvement of established actors like Javier Bardem, Viggo Mortensen, and Edward Norton adds significant weight to the production. Norton, who will also produce through his Class 5 Films, likened the project to cinematic classics such as “The Godfather” and “Gangs of Latest York,” suggesting a scope and ambition that aims for similar cultural impact. He praised Residente’s artistic vision, stating, “Everybody knows what a poet of language and rhythm René is. Now they’re going to see what a visual visionary he is as well.”
Bad Bunny’s Transition to Leading Man
While already a global icon in music, “Porto Rico” represents Bad Bunny’s first foray into a leading role in a feature film. Although, he is not entirely new to the world of acting, having previously appeared in Darren Aronofsky’s “Caught Stealing” and “Happy Gilmore 2” alongside Adam Sandler and Travis Kelce. This prior experience, though in supporting roles, suggests a willingness to embrace the challenges of acting and a growing interest in expanding his creative horizons. His widespread popularity and cultural influence are expected to draw a broad audience to the film.
The film is being produced by 1868 Studios, a partnership between Residente and Sony Music, focused on bringing Latin stories to a global audience. Live Nation Studios and Class 5 Films are also backing the project, indicating a significant investment in its potential success. Alejandro González Iñárritu, the Oscar-winning director of “Birdman,” is serving as an executive producer, lending his expertise and prestige to the production.
Production Details and Anticipated Release
Currently, “Porto Rico” is in pre-production, with no official release date announced. The film’s co-writer, Alexander Dinelaris, brings a wealth of experience to the project, having penned the screenplay for Iñárritu’s critically acclaimed “Birdman,” which also starred Edward Norton. This creative connection further strengthens the film’s artistic foundation.
The project’s focus on Puerto Rico’s origins suggests a historical narrative that could explore themes of colonialism, identity, and resilience. Given the island’s complex history and ongoing political challenges, the film has the potential to be both artistically significant and culturally relevant. The combination of a talented cast, a visionary director, and a compelling story promises a cinematic experience that will resonate with audiences worldwide.
As “Porto Rico” moves closer to production, further details regarding the cast, crew, and storyline are anticipated. The film’s success will likely depend on its ability to deliver a compelling and authentic portrayal of Puerto Rico’s history, while also showcasing the talents of its impressive ensemble cast. Stay tuned to World Today Journal for updates on this exciting project as they become available.
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