Diego Boneta, best known for his charismatic roles in "Luis Miguel: The Series" and Hollywood projects like "Rock of Ages," is stepping into uncharted territory. The Mexican actor is set to portray Fidel Castro in "Killing Castro," a gripping political thriller that promises to shed light on a little-known chapter of Cold War history.
The project also marks the directorial debut of Puerto Rican filmmaker Eif Rivera, a name already familiar in the television world thanks to "Power Book II: Ghost" and "Black Mafia Family."
Although the official trailer is still under wraps, Boneta has offered fans a first look at his transformation into the controversial Cuban leader. Through social media, he shared striking images of himself in character, complete with Castro’s unmistakable beard and commanding presence.
In another behind-the-scenes post, filmed in Newark, New Jersey, Boneta gave followers a taste of the set’s atmosphere. His dressing room, decorated with historical references, plays a symbolic role in helping him connect with the spirit of Castro before each scene.
The imagery already suggests that "Killing Castro" will lean heavily into authenticity while crafting a visually arresting period piece.
Revisiting Castro’s First Trip to New York
The film is set in 1960, a defining moment for Fidel Castro. Having recently risen to power in Cuba, he traveled to New York City to address the United Nations General Assembly. What unfolded during that trip is at the core of Rivera’s story. A hostile reception from U.S. officials, tense diplomatic maneuvering, and an unlikely encounter with Malcolm X.
The script explores how Castro ended up in Harlem’s Hotel Theresa, where Malcolm X welcomed him after his delegation was refused accommodations elsewhere. At the same time, a rookie FBI agent—originally tasked with shadowing Malcolm X—finds himself reassigned to protect Castro from an assassination plot hatched by both the CIA and the Italian mafia. It’s a premise that mixes history, espionage, and political drama in equal measure.
A Star-Studded Cast
The cast assembled for "Killing Castro" is impressive. Diego Boneta takes the lead as Fidel Castro, while Kendrick Sampson steps into the role of Malcolm X. Rising star Diego Calva will portray Che Guevara, and Cuban actor Héctor Medina joins as Raúl Castro.
Adding Hollywood heavyweight power, Al Pacino has been confirmed for a role, alongside Kiki Layne, Xolo Maridueña, Alexander Ludwig, Ron Livingston, Titus Welliver, Logan Marshall-Green, Nicole Beharie, and Frankie Faison.
TIFF 2025 Premiere and Beyond
Filmed primarily in Newark, New Jersey, "Killing Castro" is now set to make its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2025, running from September 4 to 14. This festival debut positions the film for critical buzz and international attention.
While distribution details remain under wraps, the film is expected to reach theaters following its festival run, with strong indications that it may later land on the arthouse streaming platform MUBI, known for curating bold and politically resonant films.
"Killing Castro" stands out not just as a star vehicle for Diego Boneta but as a daring exploration of a politically charged moment in world history. Rivera’s debut promises to weave together espionage, mafia intrigue, and civil rights history, all framed by the unlikely intersection of Fidel Castro and Malcolm X in Harlem.
For Boneta, this marks a career-defining transformation, proving his range and willingness to take on polarizing figures.