Jorge Perugorría and Thiago Lacerda Star in 'Hotel Nacional'

Cuban actor Jorge Perugorría, widely recognized for his seminal role in the Oscar-nominated 1993 film "Strawberry and Chocolate" (Fresa y Chocolate), has been cast in the forthcoming movie "Hotel Nacional." This project is slated to participate in the Iberseries & Platino Industria Co-Production and Financing Forum, a significant event for the Spanish-speaking audiovisual industry. Perugorría will star opposite Brazilian actor Thiago Lacerda, known for his role in "Seven Women." In "Hotel Nacional," Lacerda is set to portray a grieving character, though further details about his specific role and the film's plot remain undisclosed.

The production of "Hotel Nacional" is set to take place in Havana, Cuba, leveraging the city's distinctive architectural and cultural landscape as a backdrop. The film aims to capture the essence of the historic Hotel Nacional de Cuba, a landmark that has witnessed significant historical events and hosted numerous international figures since its opening in 1930. The choice of Havana as the filming location underscores the project's commitment to authentic representation and its potential to showcase Cuban heritage on an international stage.

Jorge Perugorría's involvement in "Hotel Nacional" marks a significant return to international cinema for the acclaimed actor. His performance in "Strawberry and Chocolate," where he played Diego, a gay intellectual navigating societal pressures in Cuba, earned him critical acclaim and cemented his status as a prominent figure in Latin American cinema. The film itself was a groundbreaking work, offering a nuanced portrayal of homosexuality and artistic freedom within the Cuban context, and it remains a touchstone for discussions on Cuban film and LGBTQ+ representation.

Thiago Lacerda brings his extensive experience in Brazilian television and film to the project. His career includes notable roles in telenovelas and feature films, demonstrating his versatility and appeal to a broad audience. The pairing of Perugorría and Lacerda is anticipated to create a compelling on-screen dynamic, drawing on their individual strengths and international recognition. The film's participation in the Iberseries & Platino Industria forum suggests a strategic approach to securing international co-production and financing, aiming for a wide distribution and impact within the global film market. The forum itself is a key platform for fostering collaborations between Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries in the audiovisual sector, facilitating the development and promotion of film and television projects.