There are many films that explore the struggles of transgender identity. In Lupe, it follows a Cuban immigrant struggling with identity while searching for a family member. So, bring plenty of tissues.

The film stars Rafael Albarran as the title character in his first United States feature film.

Lupe is an emotional drama that explores the topics of family, immigration and embracing one’s true identity. The Cuban is an immigrant and boxer, struggling with their transgender identity while searching for their missing sister, Isabel in New York City’s underground sex industry.

The film also stars Lucerys Medina and (A Beethoven en su duocentesimo quincuagesimo aniversario) and Christine Rosario (Sickness, Putzel). The film marks the feature film debut for the directorial team Andre Phillips and Charles Vuolo. Celia Harrison, a transgender artist, wrote the screenplay with Phillips and Vuolo.

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LRM Online’s Gig Patta chatted with actor Rafael Albarran and executive producer Kerry Michelle O’Brien. We discussed keeping this trans story grounded, the physicality, and the emotional headspace of the character.

Rafael Albarran is now a U.S.-based actor and writer. He is a self-published writer with “Little,” a book of poetry on Amazon. Also, he has two more titles coming up with “Long Short Romance,” and “The cursed of beauty.” He wrote two upcoming screenplays with Remember Who You Are and History of Fat. He appeared in films El Corillo, Extremos, Rafaga.

Kerry Michelle O’Brien produced several short films, including Blood and Glory, Illipino, and Cherry Lemonade. Also, she worked in other productions, including the horror film Blood Born, and the documentary Rock Camp.

Lupe is currently playing on HBO Latino and HBO Max today.

Watch the exclusive interview below. Let us know what you think.

Source: LRM Online Exclusive, HBO Latino, HBO Max