Viva

Synopsis

In the heart of Havana, Cuba, lies the powerful and emotional story of Jesus, a young hairdresser who dreams of becoming a drag performer. Living a quiet life along the coastal city, Jesus finds himself unexpectedly challenged when his long-lost father, Ángel, reappears after serving a 15-year prison sentence. As tension and feelings of abandonment weigh heavy on their relationship, Jesus tries to navigate his newfound role as caretaker to a father who brings with him a turbulent past filled with regrets and struggles. Amidst the vibrant and colorful drag scene of Havana, Jesus must reconcile his desires for self-expression with the responsibilities that come with family ties, all while discovering the true meaning of acceptance, love, and resilience.

Cast

• 

  Héctor Medina

  Jesus

• 

  Jorge Perugorría

  Angel

• 

  Luis Alberto García

  Mama

• Renata Maikel Machin Blanco

  Pamela

• Luis Manuel Alvarez

  Cindy

• 

  Laura Aleman

  Cecilia

Reviews

Viva has received critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and raw emotional depth. Critics praised the film's authenticity, highlighting the captivating performance of Hector Medina as Jesus and the compelling father-son dynamic with Jorge Perugorría as Ángel. The film's exploration of themes such as identity, family, and personal growth resonated with audiences and critics alike, earning it a Metacritic score of 69/100. The emotional journey of Jesus as he discovers his true self in the vibrant drag scene of Havana is both moving and thought-provoking. Rotten Tomatoes commended the film for its heart-wrenching narrative and strong performances, stating that Viva is a must-see for anyone looking for a touching and inspiring cinematic experience. IMDb rated the film at 7.2/10, further solidifying its position as a well-received and impactful work of art.