Richard Gadd, Rhenzy Feliz, Ismael Cruz Córdova & Rubén Blades Among 11 Joining Bad Bunny In Residente Film ‘Porto Rico’

Principal photography has officially commenced in the Dominican Republic for René “Residente” Pérez Joglar's highly anticipated feature film directorial and screenwriting debut, titled 'Porto Rico.' This marks a significant expansion for the globally renowned Puerto Rican artist, known for his impactful music and activism, into the realm of feature filmmaking. The project is already generating considerable buzz due to its high-profile cast, which is headlined by fellow Puerto Rican superstar Benito “Bad Bunny” Martínez Ocasio. Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has achieved unprecedented global success in the music industry, breaking streaming records and selling out stadiums worldwide. He is set to star alongside acclaimed actors Viggo Mortensen, an Academy Award nominee recognized for his roles in 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy and 'Green Book,' and Edward Norton, a multiple Academy Award nominee known for his intense performances in films like 'American History X' and 'Fight Club.'

Adding substantial depth and star power to the ensemble, eleven additional actors have been confirmed to join the production. Among these notable new additions are Richard Gadd, a BAFTA-winning Scottish comedian and actor, best known for his critically acclaimed Netflix series 'Baby Reindeer,' which he also wrote and starred in. Rhenzy Feliz, an emerging American actor who gained recognition for his role in the Disney+ series 'Encanto,' is also part of the new cast. Ismael Cruz Córdova, a Puerto Rican actor with a diverse resume including roles in 'The Mandalorian' and 'West Side Story,' brings further Latinx representation and talent to the film. Legendary Panamanian singer-songwriter and actor Rubén Blades, a multiple Grammy Award winner and influential figure in salsa music and Latin American cinema, also joins the cast, promising a rich performance. The inclusion of these diverse talents suggests a complex and multifaceted narrative.

The film's screenplay is penned by Residente himself, indicating a deeply personal vision and a story that is likely to resonate with his artistic sensibilities. The choice of the Dominican Republic as the primary filming location is significant, hinting that the island's unique culture, landscapes, and perhaps its history, will play a pivotal role in shaping the film's atmosphere and thematic explorations. Residente, whose real name is René Pérez Joglar, has consistently used his platform to address social and political issues, and 'Porto Rico' is expected to reflect his characteristic artistic integrity and creative ambition. While Javier Bardem, the Academy Award-winning Spanish actor, was previously announced as part of the cast, his current involvement status remains unconfirmed based on the latest update. The production is actively working to bring Residente's directorial vision to life, aiming to create a cinematic experience that bridges the gap between the music and film industries, drawing attention from a broad international audience.