The first Hollywood film to shoot on location in Cuba since the 1959 revolution, “Papa: Hemingway in Cuba” is the true-life story of a young journalist who finds a father figure in legendary author Ernest Hemingway. Their relationship began in the late 1950’s when Ed Myers, then a junior reporter at The Miami Herald, wrote a fan letter to his idol. Myers thought he was being pranked when the larger than life Hemingway phoned the newsroom a week later, inviting him to Havana.
“Good letter, kid,” the famous voice growled. “You like to fish?”
Hidden away at his private estate with his wife Mary, the elusive author mentors Myers in fishing, drinking, and finding his voice while the Cuban Revolution boils up around them. In this turbulent landscape, observing an icon in his twilight years, Myers discovers his strength while recognizing that all of our heroes are human.
“Papa: Hemingway in Cuba” is directed by Bob Yari, whose credits as a producer include the Oscar® winning Best Picture “Crash” and “The Illusionist.” With its title derived from the Nobel Prize-winning novelist’s nickname, “Papa: Hemingway in Cuba,” is based on an autobiographical script by Denne Bart Petitclerc. Played by Giovanni Ribisi, the character is names Ed Myers in the film. Theater and screen veteran Adrian Sparks portrays Hemingway; Joely Richardson is his wife, Mary Hemingway. Minka Kelly is Debbie Hunt. James Remar portrays Santo Trafficante, Jr., reputedly the most powerful Mafioso in Batista-era Cuba. Hemingway’s legendary first-mate of the Pilar, Gregorio Fuentes, is played by local Cuban actor, Eduardo Almirante.
In theaters April 29th
