Rita Moreno had a long, successful career in Hollywood and in the entertainment industry. As a performer, she was recognized as an actress, singer, dancer, and even with her stage presence. However, her path to stardom wasn’t an easy one. Thanks to her commitment and dedication, she broke down barriers against discrimination and adversity to pave way for future Latinos and Latinas in the business.

In Rita Moreno: Just a Girl Who Decided to Go For It, the documentary follows the humor and grace of Moreno as a lesser-known actress struggling on her path with stardom. The story includes the pernicious Hollywood sexism and abuse, toxic relationship with Marlon Brando, and serious depression. Nonetheless, she overcomes all adversities and broke down barriers for representation and a path for a new generation of artists.

Over seventy years in her career, Moreno is one of the most celebrated and beloved actresses with the rare EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony) awards winners of this generation. She was born on a Puerto Rico farm, she and her seamstress mother immigrated to New York City when she was five years old. After studying dance and performing on Broadway, Moreno was cast as any ethnic minority for Hollywood studios, including Polynesian, Native American, or Egyptian. Despite these adversities, she became the first Latina actress to win the Academy Award as Anita in West Side Story in 1961 as studios continue to offer ethnic minority roles despite her given talent.

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Rita Moreno: Just a Girl Who Decided to Go For It is in theaters on June 18.

Watch the official trailer below. Let us know what you think.

Source: Roadside Attractions