Lupe is a powerful and moving drama film directed by André Phillips and Charles Vuolo, released in 2020. The movie follows the story of Rafael, a Cuban immigrant struggling with their transgender identity, who comes to New York City in search of their missing sister. She worked in the city's underground sex industry, and her disappearance sends Rafael on a journey of discovery, both of his sister and of himself.
Lupe is a brave and honest portrait of the trans experience that doesn't shy away from exploring difficult themes, such as trauma, identity, and family. Rafael's journey takes him through the gritty and dangerous streets of New York City, where he meets a cast of characters that reflect the city's rich diversity.
As Rafael navigates the seedy world of sex work, he must confront his own fears and insecurities and find a way to reconcile his conflicting desires. The film is a poignant meditation on the search for identity and the complexities of human relationships.
Lupe is a groundbreaking film that tells a story that has long been ignored in mainstream cinema. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope in the face of adversity.
