Residente to Direct Bad Bunny in Historical Epic ‘Porto Rico’
René Pérez Joglar, known professionally as Residente, will make his feature directorial debut with “Porto Rico,” an epic Caribbean Western and historical drama starring Bad Bunny in his first leading film role. The announcement was made on Wednesday, February 19, 2026, with the project also set to feature Javier Bardem and Edward Norton alongside Bad Bunny.
A Caribbean Western Rooted in Puerto Rican History
Described as an “epic Caribbean Western and historical drama,” “Porto Rico” is inspired by true events and aims to explore the origins of Puerto Rico. Residente, a 34-time Grammy and Latin Grammy Award winner, co-wrote the screenplay with Alexander Dinelaris, the Oscar-winning screenwriter behind “Birdman.”
Residente’s Vision for the Film
“I have dreamed of making a film about my country since I was a child. Puerto Rico’s true history has always been surrounded by controversy,” Residente stated in a press release. “This film is a reaffirmation of who we are—told with the intensity and honesty that our history deserves.”
Star-Studded Cast and Production Team
Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, will lead a cast that includes Viggo Mortensen and Javier Bardem. He has recently appeared in supporting roles in films such as “Happy Gilmore 2” and “Caught Stealing,” and gained recognition for his Super Bowl halftime performance highlighting Puerto Rican culture.
The film will be produced by Residente and Erick Douât through 1868 Studios, a partnership between Joglar and Sony Music. Norton, Bill Migliore, and Michael Bederman will produce for Class 5 Films. Live Nation Studios and Class 5 Films are backing the project, with additional support from strategic partners including the Kwanza Jones Initiative & José E. Feliciano, Mike and Sukey Novogratz, and Noah Assad.
Norton’s Perspective on the Project
Edward Norton commented on the film, stating, “This film is part of a tradition of films that we love deeply…but also force us to confront the shadow history that lies beneath the American narrative of idealism. Everyone knows René as a poet of language and rhythm. Now you will also see the visual visionary that he is. And reuniting him with Bad Bunny to inform the true story of Puerto Rico’s roots will be like a flame finding the stick of dynamite that was waiting for it.”
Residente’s Directorial Background
While “Porto Rico” marks Residente’s first fiction feature film, he has a history of directing his own music videos, including award-winning works such as “Atrévete-te-te,” “La Perla,” and “Calma Pueblo.” He has also directed short films like “Quiero ser baladista” and “Bajo y bateria,” as well as his documentary, “Resident.”
Bad Bunny has also been building his acting resume with roles in “Bullet Train” (2022), “Happy Gilmore 2” (2025), “Caught Stealing” (2025), and “Cassandro” (2023), as well as appearances on “Saturday Night Live.”