‘Los Frikis‘ is a raw, electrifying ride of emotion and energy that delivers a gut punch as the opening night feature at San Antonio Film Festival (SAFilm), celebrating its 30th anniversary.
Directed by Tyler Nilson and Michael Schwartz, the acclaimed team behind ‘The Peanut Butter Falcon‘, and produced by the Academy Award-winning duo Phil Lord and Christopher Miller (‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse‘, ‘The Lego Movie‘), ‘Los Frikis‘ delivers a powerful portrayal of life during Cuba’s “Special Period.”
Inspired by true events, ‘Los Frikis‘ throws you into the chaotic world of 18-year-old Gustavo (Eros de la Puente) and his older brother Paco ( Héctor Medina), along with their punk bandmates, the “Frikis.” Confronted by the brutal economic crisis, these rebels make a radical move: they deliberately contract HIV to get into a government-run treatment facility. There, they forge their own sanctuary , a space where they can defy their grim reality and thrash out their frustrations and dreams through music.
‘Los Frikis‘’s visceral impact is amplified by its gritty, immersive visuals and an explosive soundtrack. The intense, heartfelt connection between Gustavo and Paco is portrayed with raw authenticity, making their journey both heart-wrenching and strangely inspiring. Adria Arjona also stands out as Maria, adding a fierce emotional edge to the ensemble. The cast delivers performances that are as compelling as they are rebellious.
With an original score by Academy Award winner Steven Price that pulses with intensity, ‘Los Frikis‘ delivers a high-voltage experience that captures the essence of struggle and liberation. This film isn’t just a visual spectacle; it’s a punk rock anthem for freedom and self-expression, perfectly setting the tone for SAFilm’s 30th anniversary celebration.
To purchase tickets to ‘Los Frikis‘ at SAFilm, visit: https://tobi.tobincenter.org/.
Follow the San Antonio Film Festival on Instagram @SAFilm.
‘Los Frikis‘ is Screening Tuesday, July 30, 2024 at 7 p.m.
Tobin Center for the Performing Arts
100 Auditorium Cir.
San Antonio, TX 78205
Summary
‘Los Frikis’ is a powerful and gripping film of what those suffering will go through in order to feel relief while sharing familial bonds.