Lupe (2019 Film) - Movie Review

by Michael Mongera

"Lupe" offers a unique look into a Cuban immigrant/kickboxer coming to terms with her gender identity amidst a frantic look for his missing sister. Rafael Abarran stars as Rafael, a masculine-presenting Cuban woman who has moved to New York to search for his missing sister, Lana. Along the way, she finds room to explore her burgeoning gender identity as a woman. Not only is she confronted with the fear of how those closest will react to her revelation, but looking for her sister, who has disappeared into the sex work industry.

The film's inclusion of transgender representation is its greatest value. A passionate yet torn woman battles rejection and from the person, she loves the most. Yet, she is strident in giving herself the love she has recently lost. However, the search for her sister is disappointingly anti-climactic. For a character to show such drive for the person they love, the reaction is unexpected for her, and not in a fulfilling way. Spiritually, this film is a testament to discovering oneself and giving that part of love that may have been lost. But, It is hard to ignore how one of its main plot points finds a lukewarm ending. If you want a resilient story of the beginnings of gender transition, this is a worthwhile film to watch.