El cantante is a biographical drama film released in 2006, that focuses on the life of Héctor Lavoe, a Puerto Rican salsa singer and the rise and fall of his career as told from the perspective of his wife, Puchi, as she looks back on their tumultuous relationship.
The movie is set in the 1970s, and explores Lavoe's rise to fame in New York City and his struggles with drug addiction, marital infidelity, and depression. Lavoe's relationship with Puchi, whom he met when she was a receptionist at Fania Records, is also highlighted in the film. Puchi is portrayed as a supportive and loving wife who stands by Lavoe throughout his highs and lows.
The film features numerous performances of Lavoe's popular songs, including "El Cantante", "Mi Gente", and "Periodico de Ayer". These performances are intercut with scenes of Lavoe experiencing personal and professional setbacks, including the death of his father, the decline of his career, and his struggles with addiction.
The film culminates in Lavoe's triumphant return to music after a long period of inactivity, and ends with a tribute to Lavoe, who died in 1993 at the age of 46 from complications related to AIDS.
El cantante stars Marc Anthony as Héctor Lavoe and Jennifer Lopez as Puchi. The film received mixed reviews from critics, but was praised for its performances and its portrayal of the salsa music scene in New York City during the 1970s.