The Irish-made drama, about a Cuban man longing to be a drag queen, has been selected as the Irish entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at this year’s Academy Awards.

Written by Irish actor and screenwriter Mark O’Halloran (Adam & Paul) and directed by Paddy Breathnach (Man About Dog), Viva stars Cuban actor Héctor Medina as Jesus. Hairdresser to Havana city’s drag queens, Jesus longs to be in the spotlight himself, however his complicated relationship with his father is coming in the way of his dream.

Director Paddy Breathnach commented on his experience making the film and subsequent Oscar selection, “We loved every minute of our adventure on this film which took us from Ireland to Cuba and back again. As well as our wonderful Irish team, we had the pleasure of working with a great Cuban cast and crew and I feel this nomination recognises this incredible international collaboration.”

WATCH THE TRAILER:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGQxqTMA3go