Papa Hemingway in Cuba

Of all the films based on a true story that's rife with character and intrigue, that film would have to be "Papa Hemingway in Cuba". The chance to see him in his lifestyle while living in Cuba has got to be one of the most intriguing and turbulent parts of his life. Since Hollywood is fascinated with the 'true story' concept, what a better characterization to present than that of Hemingway.

This is the true-life story of a young journalist, Ed Myers (Giovanni Ribisi) who finds a father figure in Ernest Hemingway (Adrian Sparks) considering he is Myers idol. He is stunned when Hemingway responds to a letter he wrote. Hemingway called him and said, "Good letter, kid", the famous voice growled. "You like to fish?" Hidden away at his private estate with his wife, Mary (Joely Richardson), the elusive author mentors Myers in fishing, drinking and finding a voice. The two men soon get caught up in the violence of the 1959 Cuban Revolution, all the while Myers' girlfriend, Debbie (Minka Kelly) is having a difficult time staying on the mainland, Florida, wondering why her boyfriend is spending so much of his time in Cuba. In this turbulent landscape observing an icon in his twilight years, Myers discovers his strength while recognizing that all of our heroes are human.

Others to round out the cast are Shaun Toub as Evan Shipman, longtime friend of 30+ years of Hemingway's, James Remar as Santo Trafficante, Anthony Molinari as John Fletcher, Frank Licari as Sal, Rodrigo Obregon as Lucas, Joseph Bertot as Roberto and Daniel Travis as Bob Luther.

This was deftly directed by Bob Yari ("Mind Games" 89). Actually this filmmaker is an extremely prolific producer, producing many films. I'm not sure why this has only been his second film in the director's chair--maybe too busy with all the producing, but he should consider directing more often. He's a natural. The way he brought out the paranoia in Hemingway and the fear in his wife, Mary was amazing. It was well written by Denne Bart Petitclerc ("Red Sun" '71, "Islands in the Stream" '77, "The Vivero Letter" '99) plus TV movies and TV series. I'm not sure why Petitclerc opted to use the name Myers in this film, since he is the young writer in this, but considering the name used, it certainly was much easier to pronounce. His meeting and subsequent interacting and observation of Hemingway was delineated with expertise. There were a couple of slower spots, however not enough to detract from one's attention. What also makes this a groundbreaking film is that this is the first American film to be filmed in Cuba since 1959. Richardson as Mary Hemingway was brilliant is her performance, and Ribisi could be looking at an Oscar nod come that time.

Whether you are a Hemingway fan or not, there is something for everyone in this film. With the great acting, directing, effective writing and beautiful locales, this will keep you riveted to that proverbial theater seat wanting more by film's end.

Out of 4 Stars: 3.5                                      Rated: R                                         110mins.