US distributor Magnolia Pictures, via Indiewire, has released a new clip for Paddy Breathnach’s superb Spanish-language drama Viva. The clip shows Jesus and his father’s tense relationship as his father attempts to toughen Jesus up.
The film is the story of Jesus, a young man growing up in Havana, who works as a hair and make-up artist for drag acts. His secret desire is to perform on stage, but he must choose between pursuing his dream and reconnecting with his father, who is newly released from prison.
The film, which is written by Irish actor and screenwriter Mark O’Halloran (Adam & Paul), stars Cuban actors Jorge Perugorría, Luis Alberto García and Héctor Medina. Director of Photography Cathal Watters (One Million Dubliners) won the IFTA for his work on the film, which also features the talents of Production Designer Paki Smith, who reunites with Breathnach having previously worked together on Man About Dog.
Rebecca O’Flanagan and Rob Walpole produce for Treasure Entertainment, with funding from the Irish Film Board, Windmill Lane Pictures, RTÉ, and Treasure Entertainment. Nelson Navarro Navarro from Island Films in Cuba co-produced, with legendary actor Benecio Del Toro as acting as executive producer.
Viva will be released in Irish cinemas later this year.