Cuban actor Jorge Perugorría and Brazil's Thiago Lacerda headline the film 'Hotel Nacional,' set in Havana as part of the Iberseries forum.
Cuban actor Jorge Perugorría, renowned for his role in the Oscar-nominated film Strawberry and Chocolate (Fresa y Chocolate), has been officially cast in Hotel Nacional. Perugorría will star alongside Brazilian actor Thiago Lacerda, known for his work in Seven Women. This information was reported by Variety on September 7, 2026.
Hotel Nacional, which will be showcased at the Iberseries & Platino Industria Co-Production and Financing Forum, takes place in Cuba's capital, Havana. In the film, Lacerda portrays Bruno, a grieving husband who travels to reconnect with the roots of his recently deceased Cuban wife. During his stay, he encounters Pilar, a Spanish doctor attending a conference who seeks an escape from her routine life in Madrid. Central to the plot is Rubén, a veteran bartender played by Perugorría, who helps facilitate their connection over cocktails and deep conversation amid the backdrop of Havana's vibrant culture.
The film will be directed by Diego Corsini, marking his eighth feature film. Corsini elaborated on Perugorría's character, detailing Rubén as a 60-year-old who has spent 30 years as a bartender at the iconic Hotel Nacional. The director intends for Rubén's interactions with Bruno and Pilar to leave a significant impact on his life. Corsini described Rubén's character as sociable and warm, highlighting his expertise in classic cocktails, which play a pivotal role in the story.
Despite the economic complexities currently faced in Cuba, Corsini remains optimistic about the production. He indicated that advancements in renewable energy may facilitate the filming process, emphasizing the resilience and creativity of the Cuban people. The famous Hotel Nacional, which serves as both a location and a character in the film, has received the official support of ICAIC (the Cuban Institute of Cinematographic Art and Industry), which will assist in overcoming any challenges related to the shoot.
Hotel Nacional is produced by Cinescalas from Spain, in collaboration with Brazil's TVZero and i4films. The film's development follows a legacy of nearly 20 feature films produced by Cinescalas over the last two decades.
The announcement of Hotel Nacional starring Perugorría and Lacerda signifies a significant moment for both actors, particularly given their acclaimed pasts in cinema. The film represents not only a cultural exchange but also an opportunity to showcase Havana's unique charm and the emotional narratives tied to its history. As it prepares to debut at the upcoming Iberseries & Platino forum, expectations are high for its portrayal of love and loss amid the challenges faced by both characters. The progress on the film indicates a commitment to storytelling that resonates with audiences worldwide, highlighting the power of personal connections against the vibrant backdrop of Cuba.
For more on international film productions, check out our articles on Gábor Reisz's 'Ground Floor' to Premiere at Venice 2026 and Arte France’s ‘Tax Me (If You Can)’ Secures Global Distribution Deals.
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