Synopsis

De Tal Palo is a family drama produced in Puerto Rico, in Spanish with English subtitles. The film skillfully weaves a simple yet captivating story that resonates with audiences. It tells the story of a grandfather who becomes responsible for raising his nine-year-old granddaughter when the child’s mother faces a severe health crisis following an incident of violence. The narrative introduces viewers to the world of older adults and the experiences they face in later life: loneliness, widowhood, raising grandchildren, and health challenges, among others. The film uses an elegant and subtle storytelling language that captures the complexity of everyday life. The intervention of the State, through the character of a social worker, adds an element of suspense and tension to the narrative. De Tal Palo is an inspiring story of resilience and unbreakable family bonds that deeply touches the audience.

Synopsis

De Tal Palo is a family drama produced in Puerto Rico, in Spanish with English subtitles. The film skillfully weaves a simple yet captivating story that resonates with audiences. It tells the story of a grandfather who becomes responsible for raising his nine-year-old granddaughter when the child’s mother faces a severe health crisis following an incident of violence. The narrative introduces viewers to the world of older adults and the experiences they face in later life: loneliness, widowhood, raising grandchildren, and health challenges, among others. The film uses an elegant and subtle storytelling language that captures the complexity of everyday life. The intervention of the State, through the character of a social worker, adds an element of suspense and tension to the narrative. De Tal Palo is an inspiring story of resilience and unbreakable family bonds that deeply touches the audience.

Main Cast

joSÉ FÉLIX GÓMEZ

Manuel

Veteran Puerto Rican actor, playwright, choreographer, and academic José Félix Gómez has a 60-year career and portrays Manuel, the protagonist of De Tal Palo. This film adds to more than ten films in which he has appeared. His filmography includes short films, television movies, and feature films such as ¿Quién eres tú?, Bala perdida, El quinceañero de mi abuela, and La gran fiesta. His work has been recognized internationally and at major film festivals including San Sebastián, Havana, New York, the Chicago Latino Film Festival, and the Boquerón Film Festival, among others.

La actriz Milena Elisa Soltero
milena elisa soltero

Irene

Milena Soltero is the young actress who portrays Irene, Manuel’s granddaughter. This is the first leading film role for this Puerto Rican performer, who at a young age has already studied acting, physical theatre, and improvisation. Milena emerges as a remarkable discovery. She skillfully conveys emotions such as fear and rebellion and deeply moves audiences with her portrayal of a young girl with great emotional strength.

La actriz Denise Quiñones
Denise Quiñones

Emma

The renowned Puerto Rican actress, singer, dancer, and model plays Emma, Manuel’s daughter and Irene’s mother. Denise Quiñones, who was crowned Miss Universe in 2001, has appeared in films and series such as Bad Boys II, Smallville, Élite, and Locas y atrapadas. She has received numerous awards, including a HOLA Award from the Hispanic Organization of Latin Actors and an ACE Award.

Acknowledgements

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24th Dhaka International Film Festival 2026 Official Selection
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Technical Information

Duration
96 minutes

Genre
Family Drama

Language
Spanish with English subtitles

Aspect Ratio
1.85

Audio Format
Surround 5.1 and stereo

Audience
Young adults and older adults; U.S. Hispanic and Ibero-American markets

Director and Screenwriter
Iván Dariel Ortiz

Executive Producer
María del Carmen Fullana

Producer
Laury Vega, Lizaida Rivera

Contact Person
María del Carmen Fullana

Departamento de Desarrollo Económico y Comercio. Gobierno de Puerto RicoPuerto Rico Film Commission (PRFC)
This production was made possible through ARPA funds and the support of the Film Industry Development Program of the Puerto Rico Department of Economic Development and Commerce.

Gallery

making of