Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, known globally as Awful Bunny, is expanding his already impressive repertoire, stepping into a leading role in the historical epic, Porto Rico. The film, a passion project for Puerto Rican rapper René “Residente” Pérez Joglar, will co-star acting heavyweights Edward Norton, Javier Bardem and Viggo Mortensen, marking a significant moment for both the artist and Latin representation in cinema.
The project represents a major career shift for Bad Bunny, who has previously appeared in supporting roles in films like Bullet Train and Caught Stealing. His recent hosting gig on Saturday Night Live in October was met with critical acclaim, further demonstrating his versatility. He also captivated a massive audience as the 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Show performer, drawing the fourth-largest viewership in the history of the event, according to reports.
Porto Rico will be the feature film directorial debut for Residente, a four-time Grammy winner and record-holder with 29 Latin Grammy Awards – more than any other Latin artist, as noted in his biography on Wikipedia. He has previously directed six documentaries and numerous music videos, showcasing a strong visual storytelling ability. Oscar-winner Alejandro González Iñárritu (Birdman) will serve as an executive producer on the film.
“I have dreamed of making a film about my country since I was a child,” Residente stated. “Puerto Rico’s true history has always been surrounded by controversy. This film is a reaffirmation of who we are — told with the intensity and honesty that our history deserves.”
A Story Rooted in Puerto Rican History
While details surrounding the plot are still emerging, early drafts of the script, co-written by Alexander Dinelaris, known for his work on Birdman, reportedly centered on the life of José Maldonado Román, a Puerto Rican revolutionary known as Águila Blanca (White Eagle). Maldonado fought against colonization as part of the Cuban Liberation Army in the late 19th century. It remains unconfirmed whether the final film will adhere to this original storyline, but a press release describes Porto Rico as blending “historical scope with a visceral, lyrical approach and a gripping narrative inspired by true events.”
Residente’s artistic background promises a unique approach to historical storytelling. His work often tackles complex social and political themes, and his transition to filmmaking suggests a desire to explore Puerto Rican identity and history with depth and nuance. The involvement of established actors like Norton, Bardem, and Mortensen lends further weight to the project, signaling its ambition and potential for broad appeal.
Bad Bunny’s Rising Profile
Bad Bunny’s ascent to global stardom has been remarkable. From his early success in the Latin trap and reggaeton scenes, he has become a cultural icon, consistently breaking streaming records and selling out arenas worldwide. His album DeBÍ TiRAR Más FOToS, released in January 2025, was a love letter to Puerto Rico, resonating with both Puerto Ricans and the global diaspora, as reported by Billboard.
His willingness to embrace his Puerto Rican heritage and incorporate it into his music and performances has solidified his connection with fans and established him as a powerful voice for the island. This commitment is likely to be reflected in his portrayal of a character within a film deeply rooted in Puerto Rican history.
The collaboration between Residente and Bad Bunny, two prominent figures in Puerto Rican culture, is particularly noteworthy. The two artists have a long-standing relationship, with Residente appearing alongside Bad Bunny in the music video for their 2019 collaboration, “Bellacoso”.
Porto Rico is poised to be a landmark film, not only for its star power but also for its potential to shed light on a crucial period in Puerto Rican history. Production timelines and a release date have not yet been announced, but the project is already generating significant buzz within the film industry and among fans of both Bad Bunny and Residente.
As production moves forward, audiences will be watching closely to spot how this ambitious project unfolds and how it will contribute to a broader understanding of Puerto Rico’s rich and complex past. Stay tuned for further updates on casting, filming locations, and the eventual release of Porto Rico.
What are your thoughts on Bad Bunny taking on this leading role? Share your opinions in the comments below!
