Malcriada is a narrative short film set in a quiet rural town in Puerto Rico. The story follows Jimena, a sixteen-year-old pastor’s daughter who is admired for her dedication to her family and church. When she begins carrying a personal secret she is not ready to share, her mother Inés chooses to protect her in the only way she knows how. As they struggle with silence, fear, and the weight of community expectations, their bond is tested in profound and unexpected ways.
The film offers a gentle and nuanced look at family, faith, and the emotional challenges young people face as they try to define themselves within strong community structures. Rather than casting judgment, Malcriada approaches its characters with empathy, highlighting the complexity of love and the lengths people go to protect the ones they care about.
Visually, the film embraces an intimate style—warm natural light, soft interiors, and the lush landscapes of Puerto Rico’s mountains. Shot in 1.66:1, the frame echoes the quiet tension of Jimena’s world while celebrating the beauty of everyday life on the island.
Malcriada is being created by a team of Puerto Rican filmmakers, actors, and collaborators committed to authentic representation and community-centered storytelling. The film will be shared through festivals, community screenings, and accessible public showings in Puerto Rico and the U.S. diaspora.
Your support will help us bring this story to life, uplift Puerto Rican voices, and create a film that reflects the tenderness, strength, and complexity of our communities.