The acclaimed drama Esta Isla, which secured the 2026 FIND John Cassavetes Award, is set to make its digital debut later this month. The film, directed by Lorraine Jones Molina and Cristian Carretero, will be available on major VOD platforms starting August 25 via Tribeca Films.
Set against the backdrop of a fading coastal town in Puerto Rico, the story follows Bebo, a teenager living in a public housing complex with his brother. The pair struggle to make ends meet by fishing, but the lack of opportunity eventually pushes them toward dangerous, illegal activities. When a job takes a violent turn, Bebo goes on the run with Lola, a young woman from a wealthy background who is also looking to escape her own difficult circumstances.
A Journey Through Puerto Rico
As the two characters navigate the island’s mountainous terrain, the film explores the contrast between the remnants of a traditional way of life and the encroaching violence of their situation. With hitmen in pursuit, Bebo is forced to reckon with his past decisions and determine if there is any path toward redemption or if their journey will end in tragedy.
The film has already garnered significant critical attention. IndieWire noted that the film portrays Puerto Rico as a place of resilience through community, while RogerEbert.com described the project as visually evocative and uniquely conceived. These early accolades highlight the impact of the storytelling, which aims to be larger than the immediate narrative of its protagonists.
Production and Cast Details
The screenplay for the 114-minute feature was written by Cristian Carretero, Lorraine Jones Molina, and Kisha Tikina Burgos. The production was handled by Experimento Lúdico, with cinematography by Cedric Cheung-Lau and an original score by Alain Emile. The ensemble cast features Zion Ortíz, Fabiola Brown, Xavier Morales, Teófilo Torres, and Audicio Robles.
For those looking to watch the film, it will be available for purchase or rental on platforms including Apple TV, Fandango, and Amazon. The release marks a significant milestone for the filmmakers, who have been recognized for their work in highlighting Caribbean perspectives through cinema.
Source: Tribeca Films
