The Cuban punk subculture of the 1990s resurfaces in the gripping new film 'Los Frikis,' directed by Tyler Nilson and Michael Schwartz. Starring Adria Arjona, Héctor Medina, and Ero de la Puente, the film sheds light on the tragic yet defiant story of a youth who risked everything to escape societal oppression.
Amid Cuba's "Special Period" during the 1990s, economic collapse and government control left many citizens in poverty and repression. For a group of young punks known as 'Los Frikis,' life outside societal norms became their form of rebellion. Some made the radical choice to inject themselves with HIV, securing admission to government-run sanatoriums where they could live with relative freedom and self-expression.
This harrowing reality is the foundation of 'Los Frikis.' The three actors talked with The Latin Times about how the experience of filming the movie changed their lives.
Adria Arjona: Leading with Strength and Sensitivity
Arjona delivers a powerful performance as María, a caregiver who becomes a symbol of hope and compassion. Reflecting on the experience, Arjona admitted it was life-changing.
"This film changed my life completely. It was one of the most beautiful experiences I've had and possibly will have in cinema," she said during a visit to Miami, where she was promoting the movie, visiting her father, singer-songwriter Ricardo Arjona, and the rest of her family.
Arjona's involvement extended beyond acting. Encouraged by the directors, she stepped into the producer role, gaining confidence in her ability to influence storytelling. "Thanks to Tyler (Nilson) and Michael (Schwartz,) I realized I could do this. My ideas matter," she said, mentioning that she was the director and writer of 'Los Frikis.'
Jason Momoa, Arjona's boyfriend, also praised her performance, showing his support on Instagram and commending her debut as a producer.
Héctor Medina: Transforming into Paco
Cuban actor Héctor Medina ('Viva') takes on the role of Paco, a passionate punk musician who leads his friends into extreme measures for survival. Medina described the preparation process as grueling.
"It was a very intense job... learning guitar, strict diets, and embodying the role to the fullest," he said about embodying the role of a man living in extreme life and health conditions.
Medina also revealed that filming required intense physical preparation and complete immersion into the role. He spent two months under strict supervision, logging his meals and exercises daily. The cast even lived shoeless during the shoot to reflect the barefoot lifestyle of their characters, which left Medina feeling disoriented when filming was finished.
Eros de la Puente: Rising Talent
In his debut role, Erode la Puente portrays Gustavo, Paco's younger brother, whose need to be with him leads him down a dark path. De la Puente reflected on the lasting bonds formed during production: "The people I met stayed in my life. They are my close circle now."
Filming During the Pandemic
The 'Los Frikis' production occurred during the pandemic, adding an extra layer of emotional and logistical complexity. The cast and crew bonded deeply while working under restrictive conditions, which amplified the film's themes of isolation and resilience. Arjona even recalled spending two months barefoot on set, a decision that made her feel closer to her character.
'Los Frikis' premiered at the Miami International Film Festival in April 2024, earning a standing ovation and winning the Marimbas Award. Since then, it has won six more film festivals. Critics praise its emotional depth, raw storytelling, and compelling performances. The film is set for a wider theatrical release on December 25, 2024.
The film dives into themes of rebellion, freedom, and survival. It highlights a tragic yet inspiring slice of Cuban history, sparking conversations about identity and resilience. The film serves as a tribute to those who dared to challenge the system and a reminder of art's power to amplify unheard voices.
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