Cuba's Perugorría and Brazil's Lacerda Stir the Bars of 'Hotel Nacional'

Love, Loss, and Cuban Cocktails

When I first heard about the casting of Cuba's Jorge Perugorría and Brazil's Thiago Lacerda in the upcoming film 'Hotel Nacional,' my curiosity was piqued. What could be more intoxicating than a story set in the heart of Havana, where the air is thick with history and the bar is where stories begin?

'Rubén is a 60-year-old Cuban who has lived his entire life in Havana and has spent more than 30 years as the bartender at the Hotel Nacional's bar,' explained director Diego Corsini. 'With his family scattered since his children moved abroad, his work is the only thing that distracts him from his loneliness...'

And so begins our tale — one that isn't just about a film but a cultural conversation between two worlds. Perugorría's return to the screen after his iconic role in 'Strawberry and Chocolate' is not merely a nostalgic nod; it's a statement of enduring artistry.

A Cocktail of Stories

The narrative revolves around Bruno, played by Thiago Lacerda, who arrives in Havana grieving the loss of his Cuban wife. His journey becomes intertwined with Pilar, a Spanish doctor, played by an unknown yet promising talent (as per current reports). The hotel bar becomes their confessional space — not just a place to sip drinks but to unravel secrets.

At the heart of this film is Rubén, played by Perugorría himself. A veteran bartender who has seen decades pass by in the same corner of the Hotel Nacional. This isn't a mere background character; he's the emotional anchor of the story. His bar stories become metaphors for the deeper narrative — one about resilience, connection, and the ghosts that haunt us all.

Behind the Scenes: A Vision Beyond the Screen

Corsini, known for his work on 'Adiós Madrid,' brings his signature blend of realism and poetic storytelling to this film. He's aiming for a narrative that feels authentic, especially in the face of Cuba's economic challenges.

'The situation is very complicated, and we hope that things will return to normal soon,' Corsini said. 'In any case, the Cuban people have an enormous and wonderful capacity for adaptation and creativity.'

The film's production team is leveraging alternative energy sources like solar power and electric vehicles, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and innovation. It's a refreshing change in an industry often criticized for its environmental impact.

The Hotel as a Character

Perhaps the most ambitious aspect of 'Hotel Nacional' is how it treats the iconic Hotel Nacional as a character itself. The hotel, with its storied past and bustling corridors, becomes a canvas for emotional narratives. Corsini's confidence in securing filming rights at this landmark speaks volumes about the film's cultural significance.

He's also optimistic about the hotel's support, stating, 'The Hotel is essentially another character in the film—and it is the title of the film itself. For that reason, we are confident that the hotel's management will not only allow us to shoot there, but will also enthusiastically support the production.' This isn't just about logistics; it's about respecting the legacy of a place.

A Co-Production That Connects Cultures

The film is co-produced by Cinescalas from Spain, TVZero from Brazil, and i4films. Each production house brings its unique cultural perspective, which enriches the narrative. It's a beautiful example of how collaboration can transcend borders, both literally and figuratively.

Final Thoughts: A Cocktail Worth Savoring

'Hotel Nacional' promises to be more than just another cinematic experience. It's a meditation on love, loss, and the connections we forge in unexpected places. As Perugorría prepares to step into Rubén's shoes once again, I'm reminded that some stories are timeless — and this one is no exception.

The cocktail metaphor runs deep throughout the film. From the forgotten drinks that Rubén serves to the way the characters themselves navigate their emotional cocktails — it's a clever narrative device that adds layers to the story. We're not just watching a movie; we're sipping on a cultural experience.

And let's not forget, with such a stellar cast and creative vision, 'Hotel Nacional' might just be one of those rare gems that remind us why we fell in love with cinema in the first place.