movie reviews, movie news, dvd, and movie discussion
Reviews Upcoming Podcast Forums Tech

El Cantante - Review

El Cantante Movie Poster
Rated: R
Distributor: Picturehouse Entertainment
Release Date:  2007-08-03

Starring: Jennifer Lopez, Marc Anthony

Directed by Leon Ichaso
Produced by Julio Caro, Simon Fields, Jennifer Lopez and David Maldonado
Written by Leon Ichaso, David Darmstaeder and Todd Anthony Bello

Visit the movie's Official Site!

Reviewed by Josh Tyler : 2007-07-27 17:46:15
If JLo’s career went catatonic after Gigli, then after El Cantante I think it’s probably safe to go ahead and pull the plug on it. There’s no coming out of this coma. El Cantante is the worst movie I’ve seen since the last Jennifer Lopez teams up with her man movie, and if someone manages to make a worse film this year that’ll be quite an accomplishment.

The movie pretends to be the story of famed Salsa singer Hector Lavoe, as told from the perspective of his longtime wife Puchi. Even though putting spouses together in movies almost always results in cinematic disaster, El Cantante does it anyway by casting real life husband and wife Marc Anthony and Jennifer Lopez as Hector and Puchi. I say the movie pretends to be told from the perspective of Puchi, because it only seems to stick to this premise when convenient. The movie pauses frequently to let Lopez as Puchi, in some sort of bizarre, mock interview introduce each scene. This gives Lopez a chance to showcase her complete lack of acting talent. The movie’s awful mock interviews with her play out like someone’s final exam in acting class, and JLo looks like she’s practicing to play the character in front of a mirror. Lopez actually seems to become a worse actress with each picture, and her work in El Cantante represents a new low. But the really annoying thing about all the screen time she’s given to smoke and stare at the camera is that it’s all for nothing since once the scene she’s introducing starts rolling the camera follows Hector everywhere, with or without Puchi. There’s no real attempt to tell the story from her perspective, because that sort of complexity is light-years beyond this script’s grasp.

If there were a bright spot in the film, it might have been Marc Anthony as Hector Lavoe. He certainly looks convincing, drugging and whoring, and shrugging his way through the picture. Unfortunately El Cantante never lets us get to know his character. The movie skips through his life with no real rhyme or reason. It’s like watching the Hector Lavoe story on fast forward, were the remote control being held by a blindfolded mental patient who randomly switches to slow motion based upon a random bubbling sensation in his bowels. There’s no point to any of it, and the movie skips through Hector’s life without letting us know who he is or why he’s important.

The film can’t even properly present his music, the man never sings an entire song and if there was any sort of process to coming up with his sound it’s ignored. Lavoe simply shows up in New York and goes to work singing. Well we presume he’s singing. We don’t see much of it really, though people keep talking about how great he is and soon for no particular reason and with almost no effort on his part, he’s instantly elevated to the status of Latin god.

The same is true of his relationship with Puchi, who just sort of shows up, and then they’re together. We don’t know why they’re together, there’s no attempt to figure out why Puchi sticks with him, or even to figure out what they have in common besides a mutual affection for heavy drugs. Though maybe it’s for the best. If JLo can’t handle the meager morsels El Cantante’s lousy script gives her, I shudder to think what she might have done to good material. The musician biopic craze dies right here; bury it to the left of Jennifer Lopez’s once significant career.

Latest Movie Reviews:

Thumbnails Gallery for El Cantante
 

Social Bookmark This Article

Blinklist   Del.icio.us   Digg   Furl   Slashdot   Facebook   StumbleUpon   Yahoo!   Propeller  


 

Comment on “El Cantante”

Note: This website is not intended for use by minors. The views expressed in this comments section are not necessarily our own. Comments that we deem to be poorly worded, off topic, or threatening will not be published. For free, uncensored discussion visit our forum.
  1. Richard Says:

    I was afraid that this movie would not get good ratings...... Coming from a hardcore Puerto Rican, it pains me to say that J Lopez / M Anthony are not the caliber of actors to make this kind of movie. Make no bones about it.....the life of Hector Lavoe is the kind of roller coaster ride that Oscar roles are made of. Lopez / Anthony are definitely not the type of actors to deliver their roles appropriately.

    Once I read that the movie was not even going to feature the original music as sung by the great Lavoe...I new it was doomed. How do you make a movie about a musician that never got national air play across the US and not introduce him to everyone by having original music? M Anthony has got to have some ego to think that people would not notice a second rate attempt to copy Lavoe tracks. He is not a great Salsa singer...just OK. OK music does not cut it. I guess Lopez forgot this IS about the music....and not the substitute!

    Why not get Benecio Del Toro? This movie is not suppose to appeal to only Puerto Ricans.......it's for everyone to be introduced to an extremely significant musical artist that the majority of Americans never knew existed.

    What a dissappointment,

  1. jose Says:

    El cantante the worst movie ever!!!!!!!!!!!!! do not waste your time and money

  1. Madge Says:

    Why is Puchi the main focus of El Cantante and not Hector Lavoe? And why would Marc Anthony allow his wife to disrespect the memory of Hector by producing a bio about him, and then putting herself as Puchi in the starring role? Puerto Ricans and those who are fans of Hector Lavoe were led to believe that Marc and JLO were honoring him by producing his bio, and they both are being praised for their efforts all over the world, but once the movie is shown, Puchi is in every scene and Hector is made out to be a junkie, and Puchi his glamorous looking savior. That is what I don't understand.

  1. Nilsa Says:

    I have not seen the movie but I was worried about what Lopez would do with it. I read some commentary given by one of the band members who actually played with Lavoe where he said that he thinks that Lopez would turn this movie into an I Love Lucy episode, reducing it to "I love you Rickyyyyy" type madness. I think he hit it right on the nose. Without having seen the movie, it souds as if the narrorating by Lopez (as if it were Goodfellas) devalues the story and takes away a huge opportunity to pay homage to Hector Lavoe. Instead, they focus on the junkie and the dysfunction of junkie love.

    I agree with the other comments -- it is very sad. I had my fingers crossed about this and my worst fears came true.

  1. springflower28 Says:

    DEFINITELY THE BEST MOVIE EVER!!
    I went to see the movie screening & I definitely fell in love with Jennifer & Marc - they show so much passion & it was so real. Jennifer definitely deserves to be recognized as a wonderful actress - I know many of you may not agree, but after this movie, you will definitely forget everything else. I honestly fell in love with them so much emotion & it had me glued to my seat. I didn't even know the story of Hector Lavoe before this but he really is EL Cantante, a classic. Please go see it - I want to go again, I can't stop talking about it to all my friends. Truly, a classic!

  1. Cam Says:

    springflower, you're a f***ing moron. Jenniofer Lopez has a fat ass. That's about it for her acting talent. She's a horredous actress and for you to even try to call her "wonderful" is an insult to the film business. Get some betetr movie taste and learn the difference between atrocious acting and good acting. Please.

  1. sunshine Says:

    I am not surprised this movie got bad reviews, considering Jennifer Lopez is in it. I could easily tell from the commercials that this movie was going to be all about her and her attempt to prove to the world that she really can act. Who does she think she is fooling? How dissapointing that the world will not know the true legacy of Hector Lavoe and the many good things he did for the Latin race.

  1. casperdav Says:

    When I married my wife she made me understand what salsa was all about. She taught me about the greats of salsa el gran combo, ruben blades, frankie ruiz among many more but one she always stated was the best El Cantante. Once i got to listen to his music i understood that salsa was not only a style of music but it came from deep inside these singers. But el cantante was the master and hearing all these remarks about the movie really disaapoints me. My wife has done nothing but count down the days to this movie and now after seeing all these comments it saddens us that they did not even pay tribute to what made historic in salsa his passionate music and singing. We will go to see the movie but i know these many people can't be wrong. I apologize to the Lavoe family for what jen/marc have done to possibly tarnish his legacy but for true fans they will continue to spread his music just as my wife did to me. Long live the memory of El Cantante.

  1. Nilsa Says:

    casperdav:

    I understand you entirely. Everyone knows that Hector sang through his pain, even when he was a youngster. I mean his story is reflected in the music.

    I am very very interested in seeing India's version of this movie. I don't think it is out now but I know that she took the name.... "the singer" which is why Jennifer's movie had to be entitled in spanish even though she was appealing to hollywood.

    It will be interesting to see the differences in vision and production. Although I doubt if India's movie is on the same grand scale as Jennifer's. Which makes it worse for people because Jennifer, without question, had the platform and the money to really turn this out.

    Whatever. I am obsessing at this point. It is what it is.

  1. MissNilsa Says:

    I wouldn't hate on someone because they like the movie. I'm guessing that some people will not be looking for what die hard Lavoe fans want to see in a film of this calibre.

    Jennifer Lopez is a great dancer. That is really it. She can carry a role in a small way but I do not feel she would ever win an Oscar. In fact, I would be very surprised if that ever happened. I admire that she had the moxy to become as paid as she is and realize her dream but she is not a good actress and she cannot sing.

  1. Javier Smith Torres Says:

    When actors who are in the movie criticize it, as did Domingo Quiñones and Ismael Miranda, there has to be a problem. It's a shame. I was almost certain they would mess it up, but as the premiere time bcame closer and I heard one or two good things, realized Marc Anthony can act (Man on fire), I forgot my about it. However, I saw clips and a couple of things immediately struck me as cheesy. One, was the translated lyrics flying across the screen. Two was the narrating. Three was the language -- I'm sure there was more Spanish spoken in this era than portrayed, and it all seemed to ring false. Hopefully we'll see soon what happens with the Puerto Rican production that started filming at about the same time -- if it's been killed or what.

    I'm going to see the movie anyway.

  1. Tiffany Says:

    EL CANTANTE, is one of the best movies of 2007. Loved, loved, loved. Jennefir is great, she deserves to be nomivated for an Oscar in this movie, well wishfully thinking, I guess, since Hollywood does not like Latino actor, anyway, I do recomend this movie, it is fun and love the music.

  1. Monique Says:

    I love this movie, it is one of the entertaining movies of this year, JLO's performance is the best, ever, I will recomend to everybody to go see this movie, you will not be disappointed. Period.

  1. alflee Says:

    I think JLo and marc were excellent in their acting roles. Critics who have not taken the time to understand the different cultures can not appreciate or understand this film. These roles portrayed how in the 70's Hector Lavoe, with his talent, managed to become a legend and fill many hearts with his music and passion while struggling with the addictions that many youngsters fell into during that era. I believe the movie holds a message to the young artists, regardless of their nationality, who rise rapidly but don't know how to deal with the wealth and popularity.

  1. Belinda Says:

    I have not seen the movie. I will go on Friday 8/3 when it opens in New Jersey. I want to see for myself. Marc is not Robert D. and Jennifer is not an award winning actress. I am only going because we need to support spanish projects. In doing so someone will come with a great movie along the way. One which will tell a great story about spanish people. Puerto Ricans have a story to tell and so do our other latino people. I do not think that Hector was as great as Tito Rodreguez he really was the Frank S. of our time. Go see the movie and support spanish base projects. Spend the $8

  1. Rachel Says:

    I just got home from watching El Cantante. I LOVED IT!!!!!!!!!! I do not care what all of you "critics" say. I am not a movies critic, I am just giving my opinion. It is my right and I do not think you people who did not like it because you may or may not have an issue with Jennifer have the right to insult anyone because they liked the movies. To me, it brought back many memories of music that as a child I heard. I really did not know much about Hector Lavoe but I do remeber his music and like Jennifer and Marc said: it is impossible to describe a whole life in two hours. Hector died and no one ever did a movie about him ...and now when someone finally does it..then here come all the critics. You all have the right to criticize but not to offend anyone becasue their opinion is different from yours.. I ,loved the movie, enjoed the music and whoever did npt like it...too bad!

  1. DJ Johnny C Says:

    Just saw the movie "EL CANANTE" it really wasn't that bad. I really got into it. Well, as a newyorican that I am I can entirley identify myself with it. GO SEE THE MOVIE AND DON'T LET OTHERS DECIDE FOR YOU. I never pay attention to reviews but I was curious about this one so I just had to add my penny in here.

  1. Christina Says:

    Here we go again, critics who need culture sensitivity. El Cantante is maravelloso! Hard work, respect and dedication went into doing this movie.
    KUDOS to Jennifer and Marc. They should should both serve as an inspiration to ALL Latinos. Stop denigrating them. Look within yourselves and search for the core of your bitterness.

    Jennnifer Lopez and Marc Anthony I applaud you both!!!!!

    It's an honor to have such inspiration people be of Puerto Rican Descent.
    Great movie!!!!!!!!!!!! I recommend the movie to all who are open and objective.

  1. Erick R. Says:

    Strip away all the prejudices about J-Lo's or Marc's acting, the film style and the fact that this is about a Puerto Rican Legend and what you have is a movie that did not conform to the norm and took creative risks. I truly believe that critics of this film judged it first by the people (J-Lo and Marc) in it and not on it's merits alone.

    If you weren't around during Hector Lavoe's reign and have little understanding of the salsa cultural and music then perhaps you're better off going to see something else because this movie probably would not be your speed. But if, however, you can view this film without prejudice then perhaps you can appreciate the artistic vision that this film projects.

    J-Lo and Marc, IMO, did a commendable job in their perspective roles as did many of the other actors such as Nelson Vasquez (Johnny Pacheco) and John Ortiz ( Willie Colon). Leon Ichaso also took the risks in his direction that easily stes this movie apart from you standard Hollywood film and for that I give him credit.

    Was this movie really suppose to be all about Hector Lavoe? If that is what you were expecting then you missed the point. I never remember this movie being promoted as a Hector Lavoe bio. This is why people often fail to get what the producers and directors shoot for in this artistic form. If you want the Hector Lavoe bio that's what documentaries are for.

    I thank J-Lo, Marc, Leon and all the others that poured their hearts and soul into this film. I believe their passion is evident in this film and I believe they succeeded in making a film that took the risk and scored in portray the culture of the times.

    Was the movie great? Perhaps not but neither was Hector Lavoe's life and bringing that life to the big screen is a tremendous challenge but I think they succeeded in bringing the public an entertaining film that did justice to this Puerto Rican icon. I am proud of this film.

  1. ProudBoricua Says:

    I am ashamed someone would consider oneself to be proud of this film. It is practically unredeemable and does no justice to Hector Lavoe's life and legacy by omitting, distorting, straight-out lying, histrionic re-acting, and overall carelessness. It is one hell of a sloppy movie, and a whole more thought could have gone into its conception.

  1. BA Says:

    I just saw this film and it is a HUGE disappointment! This movie is all about Puchi. This is not a film about Hector Lavoe. You learn nothing about his talent or the salsa movement of the 1970s and 1980s. All you see is scene after scene of Puchi and Hector. This does nothing to expose Hector to the world. This film could have been about anybody.

  1. Irene Says:

    I think if anything good came out of this movie would be that; WE , all as a people are talking about the Legendary Hector. It has us all talking, his music still lives. So whatever everyone thinks about the movie good or bad, I just think of Hector and put on some of his music. Salsa everyone!

  1. Robert Says:

    The movie was good and I found it intersting. Jennifer did a great job as an actress and should be commended. Marc also did a great job, kudos to him. The critics are already dissecting the movie and giving it bad reviews. Who cares what they say, many are jealous and are not able to relate to a cultural icon such as Hector Lavoe. You can only say so much about a person's life in two hours. Many of these critics are stupid and ignorant. The movie was fun and the acting by Jennifer and Marc were very good. I plan to see it again!

  1. Erika Says:

    oh my god everybody keeps makin this film a j.lo/marcanthony movie but it really wasnt it...this movie was to show the world how great of a salsa singer hector lavoe was..i love this movie i mean it shows about everything hector goes trew..from his father telling him if he goes to newyork he wont recognize him as a son..were he gets introduced to drugs at a party..when hes son dies and he finds out he has hiv..ihis music that i fell in love with even more i mean it shows about everything he went trew and ppls need to just stop hating on marc and j.lo to me this is one of the best films i have seen so far in 2007..


    hetor lavoe seguiras siempre siendo

    EL CANTANTE DE LOS CANTANTES!!!

  1. MARLENE Says:

    WHAT THE FU*K?!?! ARE YOU KIDDING ME...THIS MOVIE WAS AMAZING!!!! IT TOUCHED ME IN SO MANY WAYS...DONT GET ME WRONG ITS NOT WORST...BESIDES ITS ABOUT TIME WE SUPPORT OUR LATINOS...WE ARE THE ONES THAT MAKE THIS HAPPEN...AND JUST SO YOU KNOW THEY GOT PAYED ALREADY SO WHO CARES WHAT PEOPLE SAY...PEOPLE WILL ALWAYS TALK SH*T EVEN WHEN THEY DO LIKE SOMETHING...AND LIKE DJ JOHNNY C SAID "GO SEE THE MOVIE AND DON'T LET OTHERS DECIDE FOR YOU!!!!" TO EACH ITS OWN...IT IS WHAT IT IS...AND SO BE IT

    BY THE WAY I AM SURE JENNIFER & MARC WILL APPRECIATE ALL THE LOVE!!!! =)

    THANKS FOR THE SUPPORT.

  1. Gabriel Says:

    It is so sad how to incredible Puerto Rican actors/singers could make a movie about an Puerto Rican Icon and make it trash... I was so dissapointed on how "El Cantante" came out.. I stayed for 1 hr, then i left.. it was too much for me to get in.. J.Lo and Marc show just stay singing, acting is not for them.

    Hector Lavoe was more than just a cocaine addict. He was a musician who went through alot to get to the top.. Watching this movie, all im getting is how Lavoe was a cock head..
    SERIOUSLY, TWO THUMBS WAYYYYYY DOWN!@!@

    J.Lo and Marc show be ashamed!@!

  1. DJ Johnny C Says:

    Okay, I have to confess the movie was great and it was so good to me, it made me go to VIRGIN Store to buy the ORIGINAL "EL CANTANTE" CD and not the soundtrack from the movie. I want the real singer not M.A. sorry Marc. I noticed there are 2 cd's for sale based on the movie! TAKE YOUR PICK..... AND SUPPORT OUR LATINOS when it's all latin artists performing! Like Marlene says.

  1. Ivy Says:

    I just saw this movie last night and Love it!!! Overall it was great! Considering the situation of the story. It was well put together and the acting was great. Both Marc and Jennifer are a Classic! An icon to us Latin people to those who appreciate them for making us known here in USA and for making it in this racist and over-critic world. All you hateful and bitter people that talk all this negativity about them...ask youself...How great are you? And obviously you are saying all this crap about them because, either you are not Puerto Rican (from USA) or simply just JELOUS!!!!!! Jennifer is beutiful and they both have lots of talent overall and they put a lot of carisma and passion into this realistic filmm. So, stop being so catty, hateful and jelous and either you face it or not...They both are talented and have made it big in racist and critic America! So, get over it!!!!

  1. Stanley Tineo Says:

    When i first learn that a movie was being made about Hector La Voe, i thought , shit i got to see this. Well, they said it was a biography about the artist. But no it was not, this is simply the life of Puchi.

    This movie was a disaster because it does not bring out the excellence of this amazing singer, it only narrates the story of his relationship and not the Real Life of the singer as to some explanation of the records. However, Marc Anthony played a magnificent role, i think he was the right person for the role of Hector La Voe, on the other hand Jennifer Lopez was a real mess, the way she portrays the Puchi makes it seem as if she is really acting it out (not good).

    The over all casting of this film is good.

  1. Marta Says:

    Please people let's not forget that as good as Hector was a singer he was also a heavy drug user, I love his music we always talk about hector lavoe's music to our kids of how great of a singer he was and we play his music, and as for BA remember that this was from Puchi's prospective not the prospective of Hector Lavoe, J. Lopez, interviewed Puchi so it's basically from Puchi's side of the life of hector lavoe, and what I think they should have done was to interview reporters that had a one on one with Hector, his musician friends if they are still around, not just Puchi, and remember Puchi died before Jennifer could really get to the end so I'm sure Jennifer and Marc were thinking the same thing, and no I have not seen the movie but I will today I was working until 7pm and what disappointed me was that nowhere in brooklyn this movie was playing why only in selective theatre's

  1. marta Says:

    why is it that when there is a latin movie out it gets bad reviews, if you didn't know who hector and puchi were don't judge read about them in the spanish archieves before judging jennifer's and Marc's acting, I here people in the entertiment business commenting what a junk of a movie, I wouldn't pay 2 cents to see that junk, as if these people can really act them selfs or think that they are comedians will guess what america they're not!!! and it's true never let other people judge your for you, you be your own judge, the music is great and the acting is great as will the hell with the people who didn't know how to appricate our culture, music and the talent these two fine actors'.

  1. Liyah Says:

    The movie was great!!!! JLO and marc did a wonderful job. They really got into their character. For those that were disappionted, what did you expect? What is it that you wanted to see, wanted to know? We heard and saw the truth that were through the eyes of his wife, what more can you ask for!

  1. sancho Says:

    I wish I were able to see the movie. I live in upstate N.Y. and the closest cinema screening the movie is thirty miles away. I guess they figure it's a "special interest" movie that won't interest the mainstream. All the negative reviews won't help either. We need to support "Nuestra gente" and whether the movie is good or bad keep Hector's memory alive. He inspired me as a young man and is still one of my heroes. "Siempre mas loco sere y cada dia mas loco estare !"

  1. diamondprincess Says:

    I support my people no matter what they do!!!
    I loved the movie and I can't believe that people are so ignorant to give The Simpsons better reviews than El Cantante. That just shows how ignorant are people, they loved seeing Homer trying to get some from a pig.
    Well it doesn't matter Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony are succesful Latinos which is all that matters. WHO CAN STOP THE MILLIONS HATERS!!!

  1. Bangswift Says:

    The movie was good ,and i agree with marta 100% latin movies get hated on alot. and pleasee stop hating if u havent seen the movie.

  1. Steven G Says:

    You all have different opinions about the movie. However, the world isn't perfect, or esle, we would all be in agreement, even about the existing insignificant war in Iraq. Sorry, don't mean to get pollitical.

    Anyway, I live in Los Angeles, California and I consider myself a true "salsero". We, West Coast "salseros", have been talking about this movie for months now; in salsa venues, parties, and concerts. Therefore, for someone that lives in tinsel town, I know every movie project has a "budget" which I'm sure JLO had to work with. Furthermore, you can tell that it wasn't much if it's only playing in selected theatres nationwide. On that note, last night, at the Raddison Resort in Whittier California, there is an outdoor salsa event that caters to the true "LA Salseros" and though I have not seen the film yet, many of my salsa peers did before attending the salsa event. THEY ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT AND THOUGHT IT WAS FABULOUS. ADDITIONALLY, IT CAPTURED AS MUCH AS THEY COULD WITHIN TWO HOURS!. So, again, to all you critics, whether you're latino or not, please don't belittle the film just because you have personal issues towards Ms. Lopez and Mr. Anthony. Also, I know of someone that went to the theatre yesterday to see another film but chose to see "El Cantante", and she said the movIe was impacting and it has now motiviated her to learn the spanish language in order to listen to Mr. Lavoes iconic salsa tracks; moreover, to learn SALSA dancing. We need every non-conservative person to show a depth of moral support for projects of this nature specially in a dissapointing period when sub groups of latinos as a whole is being reprehended, degraded, and motivated to leave this country we all love and cherish. My Lavoe was a true pioneer of the salsa movement, a legend, and inspirational to all latinos in that era for putting them on the US platform. Therefore, to all you second class crtics, see the movie, buy one of Mr. Lavoe's CDs, and due extensive research on the net; if you truly feel the film did not capture or portray Mr. Lavoe's life to the fullest. That's what one does at a university or college level - IT'S CALLED RESEARCH! Hats off to Ms. Lopez and Mr. Anthony- you have the concurrence and support of LA SALSEROS!

  1. shortyrock Says:

    I respect everyone's opinion and have my own. I saw the movie and believe thar JLo, Marc, and all of the actors did a tremendous job! I think that people need to realize that the movie portrays the life of Hector Lavoe as a Musician...not as an everyday person. I learned a lot about Hector's life and realized that they did show parts of him as an everyday guy..My favorite was the Santa Claus scene(It was hysterical)

    Please go and see the movie and remember that this is not a tribute to his whole life...It is a tribute to "El Cantante" as a musician.

    P.S.
    As for the "translated lyrics flying across the screen", this was done for those people that do not speak the language so that they understood what he was singing about. This is a movie for everyone to enjoy, not just hispanics!

    Que viva la SALSA!!!

  1. Yoshi Says:

    I saw the movie and my opinion is as follow: First of all it is not a documentary, it was supposed to be based on a 12 hour interview done to Puchi so is basically her point of view. That's the reason why we mostly see Puchi appear on it. Also it focused on the idea of the pain and suffering of Hector. Domingo Quinones criticized the movie because he's living his life like Hector did and he's afraid to be remembered the same way. Another question comes to mind about hte integrity of the singers that appeared, they were supposed to receive the script before the started filming so how can you tell me that the singers that appeared and did the movie and later on criticize their own work? Is not like JLo and Marc made them appear on it, they could have read the script and then refuse to do the parts. Finally I believe that JLo just acted like any Newyorican, just an average neuyorican woman. In other words she just acted like herself. It was an OK movie. Balanced to the point and not favoring nor insulting the memory of Lavoe. You cannot hide the fact that Lavoe was a drug user and that's what most people didnt like of the movie, that it told about the dark side of Lavoe. If you wanted a complete bio of Lavoe, do a documentary not a movie on one point of view.

  1. isv Says:

    My husband and I just came back from seeing this movie. If I had not had the pleasure of learning about this legendary musician through the accolades from my husband who is a Nuyorican and Bronx native, I probably would have never thought to see this movie. I went in with no set expectations.

    Knowing how important Hector Lavoe was to a generation and being able to listen to his music (most of which was played at our wedding!), I felt I could better relate to the story. Whether you're a fan of JLo or not, I do believe this movie was created with the intention of paying tribute to the tremendous and tumultuous life of Hector (and Puchi) but also to be as truthful as possible. The truth always has two sides and the movie just happened to tell the side of Puchi who was the woman in his life for 20 years...Of course she was probably not well liked by Hector's comtemporaries during the highlight of his career but to do a movie in 2007 for a man who passed away 2 decades before, getting the story from the closest person to him would seem to be as authentic as they could get. Although I would have loved to see more about the singer's life and know more about his music career, 2 hours is not going to be able to tell the whole story. My husband, who knows more about Hector Lavoe's life than most, did actually like the movie and praised Jennifer's performance and Marc's singing. And as for Marc recreating Hector's classics, Walk the Line did not use Johnny Cash's original recordings in the movie and Marc Anthony does a much better job of singing than Joaquin Phoenix in my opinion!

    Anway, no one else has done a movie like this in Hector's memory and when two people who want to bring his music to the masses do it, they are criticized. I think it is great that Hector's Lavoe's legend is being kept alive and if you want to know more about him, go buy his music, read more about his life (there are books and articles all over the place!) and find out for yourselves. Support projects like this one because it is so rare that a movie like this is able to be developed. And for those who think this is another junkie movie...let's just examine that no life that succumbs to drugs and excess is one to be thought of as "cliche", Hector was a person, not just a character and his struggles (however common they may seem in the music industy) are still unique to his story. By degrading this movie for telling another fallen, addicted musician's story, you make light of drug addiction which is such a serious affliction.

    Overall I really enjoyed the movie and thought it touched on the many points in his life and I'm now more inspired to learn more about this complex and musically brilliant man. Thanks for letting me give my side!

  1. Nyc salsera Says:

    Just got home from watching the movie. Firstly, I was impressed by the amount of people lined up to see the movie. It goes to show the love and admiration that people still feel for Mr. Lavoe.

    My review of the movie: I didn't Hate it but I also didn't love it.

    Things I disliked:
    Jeniffer Lopez is in EVERY scene. You can't help but realize that she is still JLO from the block because the woman is dressed in fur and the fanciest jewelry she could find. She looks incredibly glam during the entire film and it really just drowns out the real star of the show, Hector Lavoe. her makeup looks perfect in every shot.

    JLo (who playes Puchi) narrates the story during an interview held a few years after Hector's Death. It is supposed to be her version of the facts but actually turns out to be a movie that revolves around Puchi and her needs and how much a great person she "was" to Hector.

    In the beginning of the film he talks to his father about moving to New York to become a singer to which his father objects. the father, played by Salsa singer Ismael Miranda, warns his son that he would disown him if he left to New York to pursue a singing career.
    The worst part of the movie was after Hector finally arrived to New York, the movie completel FAST FORWARDED to his success. The Climb to stardom was NEVER shown. Hector showed up in New York and was famous in literally 2 minutes. Meanwhile, the unnecessary scenes of Hector courting JLO dragged on forever.

    Despite my dislikes of the movie, the film does not look cheap. The costumes were great and the music scenes made this film worth the 10 bucks. If I could've had the opportunity to edit this movie (lol), I would have scratched the constant scenes with Jlo and Hector arguing about their troubled relationship and I would have added additional scenes about Hector's struggle to the top. For the people that don't really know anything about Lavoe, this film really didn't teach them much about who he was and what he did to gain the love of his audience. This movie also did not include much information about the Salsa movement of the seventies and the other talented artist of this era. What a shame that was.

    On a 5-Apple scale, this movie gets a 2 1/2 apples.
    Would I recommend watching the movie: YES!

  1. anna Says:

    i've followed latin music since childhood, simultaneously english/american/european music..never heard of the name Hector Lavoe, ..Grupo Niche was the band i loved in the early 90's that i found sounds like Lavoe or was inspired by him...anyway, the movie was ok to me, i loved the songs, went to buy the soundtrack AND an especial edition of the original Hector Lavoe i found at Wallmart for under 10 dollars! !)..although i'm no fan of the desperate Leo ego of both stars..what i find sad is the way Latin people separate THEMSELVES by saying "i'll support my people no matter WHAT they do.." wow then they talk about discrimination...please ..this is the biggest discrimination i've seen..."my "RACE" ("Latin" is not a race) right or wrong"..this ladies and gentlemen is call BIAS and i hope one day you will get past it, since you demand others (black, and white race) get past it...and it's even NOT TRUE that latin movies "get hated automaticaly"! case in point to you victim players: Y Tu Mama' Tambien, acclaimed, Like Water For Chocolate" acclaimed, and i'm not even mentioning spaniards like Almodovar's films...
    Even "Pan's Laberynth" spaniard director, acclaimed, and The Motorcycle Diaries a mythical glamorised story of a guy who helped a dictator take over a country and never give elections in 47 years, (Che Guevara) ACCLAIMED...so, the victim card is worse than the race card! chau amigos

  1. phillychica Says:

    ok i have read the good and i have read the bad.. now im goona have my say. without offending anyone..

    of course i went to see the movie on opening night... and when leaving i thought ok it was good... not what i expected but good..

    however i went to see it again tonight.. why cause i thought that it desearved another chance.. and this time i understood some things that i didnt catch the first time around... which im not going into detail.. however i will say this.. im sure
    mrc and jenn playing these roles was not easy for the simply fact that they would get alot of critism..

    but hearing the music.. even if it wasnt the oiginal.. cause i know that i can go to my parents house and hear the original.. brought back memories of my dad playing the origianls...

    hector was from ponce as was my father.. so that gives me a sense of pride.. if you can understand that..

    no one will know exactly what went on in hectors private life. or why he did the things that he did or how he felt. we can only tell a storyfrom the information that we get or are told. and that what i felt was done.

    instead of saying ohh it was a bad movie why doesnt veryone say. he was a great man with many hardships and celebrate his music.. instead of focusing on how bad u may have thought that the movie was!

  1. Nilsa Says:

    I posted twice before and I regret posting because of my reaction to the critics. I hadn't seen the movie yet and I should have waited before posting because my opinion is now different.

    I just arrived from seeing the movie. I have to say that I was also, as some of you here, deeply touched by the movie for many reasons. I am a Nuyorican and I lived through this era and my memory extends itself back to the Lavoe era. The clothing, the feel, the colors, the attitude, all of it. I have to say that this movie captured, in my view, at least 85% of all of those elements.

    I have seen most, if not all of Jennifer Lopez movies and in my view, this role is the best that she has done so far. I was never really happy with her previous roles but this one must have been more identifiable to her which is neither a compliment nor critism. As a Puerto Rican from New York, most of us that lived during that era, can agree that the feel was captured here.

    I think Jennifer's acting in this role was totally believable. The only thing that I disagree with was some of the chosen dialog. Like when she uses the term "I didn't come here to get grilled"..... Trust me that was not 70s lingo, that is more of what is being said today. I think more research should have gone into some of the dialog style of the 70s but a lot was accurrate.

    I loved the music in the background, it was totally reflective. Marc Anthony did a good job! He is a good actor to me and I had acknowledged that in the past. To me, he was/is a better actor than Jennifer Lopez but still and all, she held her own. Brava!

    Not the best I've ever seen on film but definitely worth the price I paid to see it. I am glad they came through.

    Let's remember it was done from the wife's perspective and to me, it did show case, in brief, Hector's life (which by the way, Puchi was a major part of apparently)

    Good Show!

    Apologetically,
    /n.

  1. Junior Lee Says:

    There's one thing I want to make clear, if the movie got some many negative feedback from the "Non Latin Critics" why it's that the movie didn't open in all major theaters. Although I went to see on the "Empire AMC at 42nd st" the movie was suddenly interrupted halfway due to technical difficulties and didn't continue?

    Come on, and big Theater like AMC? Couldn't fix the problem? I and everyone had to go for a refund.

    Well that shows how the media can control the box office.

    I finally got to see the movie with my family in a unknown movie theater, cause Sony, Regal, etc... refused to show it.

  1. Jerry Rivera Says:

    Tremenda porqueria. Why not use Raulito Carbonel, he did a heck of a job in Broadway on "Quien mato a Hector Lavoe". Why not Domingo Quinones who also portrayed Lavoe in Broadway and knows, first hand, how drugs can affect a musical career. The movie was all about Jlo. Marc does a heck of a job with the way he dressed and acted, almost mirrored, the ways of Lavoe.

  1. Karen Says:

    I saw this movie on opening night and I loved it. I really do not understand why so many latinos hate on Jennifer Lopez, but thats besides the point. I thought the film was excellent and gave people insight into who the great Hector Lavoe was. There is no denying that he was a heavy drug user but the film still highlights how his music put salsa on the map. I would go see this film again in a heartbeat and dont let these "critics" make up your mind, go see it yourself and you wont regret it. STOP HATING!!

  1. Arlene Says:

    When you go to see a movie your not suppose to think of the actors personal life. That means you are really not paying attention. The story was told through his wife's eyes so she can only tell the parts that she knew and what she wanted everyone to know. Also the movie is only 2 hours how many people's lives can you fit in that time. And if have ever known a Puerto Rican Man especially someone at that age you would know that they always held their feelings in. They would never talk about their troubles or feelings not even to their wives. I guess it is hard for people to take in cultural differences.
    And by they way it does not matter how big jennifer ass is it has nothing to do with the movie. I guess in hollywood it is best to be skinny crack head then an real natural looking woman. which not to many non-hollywood women have abs like that.
    This movie had lost of flavor and passion. but I guess some people don't know what that is.
    Also in many movies for expample, walking the line, the story about Johnny Cash, the actors themselves sang the songs. Just like in this movie.
    Marc Anthony is an excellent singer, and as Puerto Rican Woman I think its great that another Puerto Rican Woman had the ability to Produce and Star in a movie about Puerto Ricans.
    Don't listen to the critics they will never give props to a movie that is out of their cultural boundaries!
    THIS WAS A GREAT MOVIE. Que viva Puerto Rico y su hente!

  1. Jennifer Says:

    This movie was aweful. It did no justice to the memory of Hecot r LAvoe. I grew up listening to all his music while my parents were partying and drinking budweisers in the living room playing dominoes. I would have rather seen clips of people partying in there homes and kitchens to his music then watching JLo's tired behind trying to look cute in every scene. She doesnt even resemble her. Rosalyn Sanchez would have played a better part. As for Marc who shoukd have been the main character, u couldnt really get a feel for his acting because it was all about JLo. Did Lavoe really come to NY and wake up the next morning on stage. come On JLO AND MARK. What the hell is wrong with you. If someone was making a bio pic.. about you wouldnt you want them to show how you gotr there in the first place. Well i know Mark would as for JLo i dont think so much you floosy! dont you ever take Puerto Rican Legend and turn his life in to nothing more then a Junkies life. Sure he did use drugs but thats not all he did you IDIOTS! YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF YOURSELVES! JLO GO BURY YOUR HEAD IN A CORNER AND MARK STICK TO SINGING> SHAME ON YOU BOTH! THIS COMING FROM A BRONX PUERTO RICAN! YOU LOST ALL CREDIT AS FAR AS I AM CONCERNED!

  1. prjogger Says:

    YOSHI posts on this site: "Finally I believe that JLo just acted like any Newyorican, just an average neuyorican woman. In other words she just acted like herself."

    These are the types of misconceptions being carelessly and ignorantly disseminated as a result of this very disappointing, stereotyped movie.

  1. evelyn Says:

    i've always loved Hector. My late husband told me he actually hung out with him on the streets of the lower east side. After seeing the movie, I too felt this was about JLO getting the limelight. However, as a Puerto Rican, born and raised in New York City I feel it is of utmost important that if no one else we need to support a story about a great Puerto Rian Icon, junkie so be it, that one of the aspects of Hector's life addiction affects all areas of our lives. Could they have focus more on his music, his legendary presence and the love of his people of course. This movies purpose was to put JLO back on the bill point blank.

  1. Yorelis Says:

    Both, Jennifer and Marc, were great in this movie. It is too unfortunate to read the negative reviews about it. The people that loved Hector knew of his many issues with drugs and still supported him. I think some of the audience wanted to stay away from reality and watch his glamorous life, even when that was far from reality. J.Lo and Marc did not write his story, neither did they choose his ending. Although Hector was blessed with an awesome voice, he made poor choices in his personal life and that was perfectly portrayed in the movie. I was very touched by the story and give both of these actors a lot of credit for their performance. And, by the way, Marc is an awesome singer that has absolutely anything to envy from Hector... and yes, I absolutely think Jennifer can act.

  1. PuertoRock777 Says:

    I went to see the movie this weekend and although my expectation were low I came out of the movie impressed with Marc and JLo's work. All the critics are downing the production but the movie, considering that all they had was the 11 hours interview with Puchi to go on, was best put together as they possibly could have. Jlo was good, not great and I was impressed with Marc as Lavoe - he did a great job.

    The music was great and for all those who complained about short clips of Marc singing Lavoe's songs - it's a movie. If you want to hear the songs all the way thru then I suggest you buy tickets to the tour being planned by Marc and JLo.

    The movie showed what many of us may have not known which is the turbulent life this great salsa icon lived early in his career, with his father, in his marriage and most importantly his addiction which eventually led to his downfall. As far as I can say I learned new things about Lavoe's personal life in this movie which I did not know before - he's a great singer (if not the greatest) but I now have a greater understanding to the lyrics in his music that I did not have before. I have to thank Marc and JLo for bringing that understanding to life.

    The bottom line and point of it all is that Lavoe's music and his legacy is one of the greatest in Salsa and unfortunately past way before his time. Why was he the greates I think this movie tells us why. His pains, suffering and sorrows were expressed in his music and ALL real - nothng fake about his words. He sang these songs with such passion and meaning and I now understand why - all his songs now tell me a little about him and his life, pains and most importantly his music.

    Lavoe is not the only great Salsa artist who found himself gripped in addition - we lost Frankie Ruiz in the same manner and his music to this day is one that you'll find me spinning alongside Lavoe's.

    Obviously if you think you have not learned enough about 'EL CANTANTE DE LOS CANTANTES' go out buy his classics, sit down and listent to them all. You'll learn about the man thru his music......

    Go out and support NEWYORICAN PRODUCTIONS...these are our people and hopefully this will be a launching pad to tell the stories of other great latin icons. I'm still awaiting the the Roberto Clemente story.

  1. Tania Says:

    This movie left me with a sour taste in my mouth! Jennifer and Marc SUCKED in acting skills, How dare them only show the negative side of Hector's life? They should be ashamed of themselves, after the movie I had to explain to my 14 year old son that this was not how most Puerto Rican artist behaved. This movie was not about Hector but about Puchi and of course Ms. Lopez! How do you name a movie 'EL CANTANTE' and not play the original version sang by 'EL CANTANTE' himself??

  1. Carlos Says:

    I thought El Cantante was a very entertaining movie. People who are not familiar with Hector Lavoe and salsa before the movie may not find it as entertaining however.

    It was interesting to see how difficult it was to find a movie theater playing it. Guess it was not as widely-released as other movies are. Unfortunately, some people are too jealous of Jennifer Lopez to actually comment on the movie on its merits alone. So she was in almost every scene! So what? Puchi Lavoe was just as involved in her husband's life and that is how it was depicted.

  1. Aksalsero Says:

    I have to put my two cents worth. I'm a Salsero from day one and I still remember the day I picked up "Crime Pays". Even if the events timing was protrayed out of whack, I understand the music more than ever. I could not wait to get home to listen to the originals.

    I purchased the sound track in the hopes that I could list to Victor Manuelle's rendition of El Cantante and it blew me away that it wasn't on the cd. I hope it's included it the dvd when it is released as this would be one of the main reasons I would be buying it.

    My main reason for replying is that anything that brings our music to the forefront is good for Salsa. I would love to see more movies about our latin thing and if this is the vechicle that makes it happen, so be it.

    Que Viva La Musica!!!

  1. Lola Says:

    I find it so funny how people can be incredibly ignorant and still find themselves speaking. FYI Puchi (the real Puchi) brought this movie to Jennifer Lopez prior to her death. She personally requested that JLo play the part. Why show the drugs and anger? Because that was a part of Hector. He wasn't just this saint who had a beautiful voice. He had a downside, like everyone else. His just happened to be a little worst. People are going to hate on this movie simply because of the people in it. If the actor's were different, you wouldn't be saying anything. Why you choose to put down something or someone that you know nothing about is beside me. It shows that sadness in your own life.

    For people who don't buy into that, give the movie a chance. I personally love it. You may as well. Although I think it should be showing in more theatres around the country. Movies with less substance get mainstream attention, but something like this that should, is placed on the backburner.

    Kudos to Marc, Jennifer, Leon Ichaso (if you liked this movie, you should watch "Pinero"), and all of the other people that were a part of this movie. Fantastic job!!!

  1. MissNilsa Says:

    I agree with Carlos. I think people are not looking at things the way they should. If Marc would have lip synced the song, people would have had greater issues than they do because he is singing the tracks himself.

    I especially agree with respect to Puchi's perspective. To be honest, I hope they release that interview one day, if they actually did tape it. If the make up during the interview would have been heavier and made her look like she was in her 60s, it would have been better but during those scenes, she was pretty believable to me; and trust me, I haven't been into her acting skills prior to this movie.

    I think they did a really decent job. I would actually see it again.

    Also, I noticed some people want to remain in denial and keep the dope habit a secret when it did really play a strong part of his life. The guy used to be on Avenue D coping dope all through the 80s as if he were another strung out junkie on the streets and this, I know because I was privy to it during those years. I know Puerto Rican's are mostly brought up to keep things like this quiet. Its how our parents do. However, living in today's world, life is what it is and there shouldn't be any shame in how we live our lives.

    Think of it this way, Hector was a drug user and he shot up drugs yet he was beloved by people all over the world because his music and his charisma worked everyone and became his gift to us and his gift to him from god.

    Yet, other people in the world (politicians, mainly); may not use dope but they could careless about humanity and the people and they give us wars, taxes and all kinds of unpleasant life results that we dont even know about.

    So as far as i'm concerned, he did dope, SO what? You think the people in Hollywood that make movies are clean all the time? I don't think so. The rock bands with the groupies, they do so much coke and dope, it is part of their every day existence. Nothing to be embarrassed about, in my view.

  1. pkat68 Says:

    I watched the movie Friday night when it came out. I knew that's what I wanted to do Friday night, and I don't regret it not one bit. I thought the movie was great, I thought the acting was great, and I think Hector himself would be OK with the whole thing. He was the best, and he will always be knows as the greatest salsa singer of all times, in my opinion anyway, but we have to remember he lived a rough life, and Puchi was as much part of his life as his music and drugs. Give the actors credit, JLo is beautiful, and Marc is extremely talented, they did great together to portrait this couple that had a lot of demons to deal with. Lets not forget their lives were lived hard and rough, what the hell kind of movie did ya want? Cinderella goes Salsa dancing, people please give me a break, the movie was great, the music was great, and it brought back good memories of a childhood filled with nothing but salsa dancing, and for what it's worth, good memories are worth more then any small flaw on acting or performing.

  1. Rafael Castillo (Chico) Says:

    I can tell that all the people that "Loved it" never saw Hector performing.

  1. conishkee Says:

    Everyone else's negative opinion doesn't phase me in the least. Let them have it. I had to form my own opinion. Now, I was quite surprised and impressed by Jennifer's portrayal of Puchi. She did a good job. I've seen Marc in other projects and I've always enjoyed his acting. Now, I'm not an actual moviegoer, but I couldn't wait for this particular movie to come out. I was there opening night. In fact, I saw it twice that same night! I absolutely LOVED it, and can't wait for it to come out on DVD!!

  1. MenocrazyMeknowKarate Says:

    pkat68 wrote: "What did you expect Cinderella goes Salsa dancing"

    That was very funny!

    And you're right what did everyone expect?

    The title of the movie is El Cantante, right?
    Does the title say: "Hector Lavoe" EL Cantante? or
    The Bio-pic of Hector Lavoe? or
    The autobiography of Hector Lavoe? or
    This is a 4 hour documentary of the life of Hector Lavoe? I mean WTF?

    This was a movie based on an interview(s) of Hector's wife Puchi, was it not? Her side of the story... and it seems that this is what she chose and how she chose to share it. How interesting is that? Has anyone ever seen Puchi before? I would venture to say 99% of everyone making negative comments about Jennifer Lopez's acting have never even seen her. So therefore you have no reference to go by to even think about judging Mrs. Jennifer (fuckin!) Lopez! Okay!?

    Now what we need then is a documentary/movie/musical of the great Hector Lavoe, and the awesome Salsa movement; with all of the music and all of the talented Salsa dancers etc... Now, (after this movie) more people would probably be interested in seeing one.

    So come on people lets give our talented Marc and Jennifer a break. They did the best they could. BTW have you ever tried acting or singing or dancing Salsa? Well I have and let me tell you, it isn’t easy! These talented Latinos that were in this movie deserve a lot of credit. Let’s all show them some love…

    Lets give them some support... maybe it would inspire them to improve. Let’s show them some love, support them, let’s support the movie and the efforts that went into the production, even though it wasn't perfect.

    Buy the sound track and the DVD as well as the original recording of Hector Lavoe.
    (don't buy copies or pirated copies)

    Lets send Hollywood this me$$age: "Latinos want to see more movies about Latinos with Latino actors in them" and what a good business decision that would be.

    Remember this is not the end it is the beginning of something big, real big. So polish your Salsa shoes and save your money there’s more to come!

    Peace

  1. Jaime Morales Says:

    What a joke! I wanted to see Hector's story. I have no interest whatsoever in seen J. low's rear end. It has already been overexposed. Boycot this move is a trvesty and a character assasination. Shame on you Marc.

  1. Denise from Milwaukee,WI Says:

    "Saw the movie and loved it" Then again 2 of my favorite arists starred in it. Marc Anthony is up there as one of the greatest Salsa singers of all time. Whether he sings it in spanish or english, he is a great salsa singer. I was really not a great salsa fan until Marc Anthony came out with his first Salsa album.

    Responding to Anna's remarks: Yes there have been latin films that have been acclaimed. But the difference is that Mexicans and Spaniards really look out for their artists and their fan base is loyal to them. We as Puerto Ricans have pretty much given JLo and Marc Anthony the boot since they got together and married and leaving poor Dyanara Torres out in the dumps. People get over it, it's not the first relationship that goes down hill, I think we've punished them enough and it's time we forgive them and support their projects. No matter what you think of them, they have worked hard to accomplish their goals. I give them both a standing ovation for their effort in putting the Puerto Rican culture out there for everyone to know and admire.

  1. Crysania Says:

    What people don't seem to understand is that the movie was based on an interview done with Puchie so therefore, it's the way she saw things. This is the way that she saw Hector in her eyes and it's what the move was trying to deliver. Willie Colon should be the last person making any critizism. The movie portrayed him as the nice guy. We all know the he was a major asshole with Hector. But again... I guess Puchie saw him as a nice guy. Jennifer Lopez did a great job and so did Marc. Jennifer is trying so hard to please her people and all they keep doing is trashing her. Shouldn't we be supporting her?

  1. Vitin Says:

    I just saw the movie and loved it. The movie did not reveal all of Hector's life but it still elevated his status as one of the founders of NYC salsa. JLO's character (pucci) was unpopular back then and people should not leave the theater loving her now. It was a story told from Pucci's perspective and JLO played perfect. The fact remains Hector was and will always be a salsa legend and the movie, I believe, was intended to show Pucci's life with Hector, not the other way around. Marc/Jennifer great job my fellow Nuyoricans!!!!

  1. Joey Says:

    Well, I am, if not the biggest fan, one of the biggest fans of Hector Lavoe, even before he died. If you want to know about Hector Lavoe, I recommend you read "CADA CABEZA ES UN MUNDO" written by Jaime Torres Torres, who is an editor for El Nuevo Dia in www.endi.com. Unfortunately, this book is in spanish, not sure is there is an English version of this but this book goes well in depth from the time he was born to his success, challenges in life, etc..... After seen this movie, I regret to say, I was disappointed. Nothing but negative influence on a legend. It's like if the movie was about Elvis Presley and all we saw was him using drugs with his vulgar wife. I expected to see a movie about Hector Lavoe, a movie that describes who he his, how he became to be what he is, why he is admired by so many "World Wide", POSITIVE things about him. This movie put a bad rap on a legend. His videos are a hell of alot better to see than this movie. View his videos in google.

  1. Rafaelito Says:

    I have been anticipating this story and movie for a long time. I grew up in Nueva Yor during this era. I remember my older cousins listening and doing the same thing. As I sat there and marveled at the movie I could not help to notice the amount of drugs and violence that were being prtrayed on the screen. I then realised the authenticity of the film. I would not have preferred a leave it to beaver rendition. Had the movie been cleande up and partrayed differently, a different set of sceptics would have spoken.
    The era the movie portrays was a rebellious time in this country when we were involved in a war or recovering from it. As Puerto Rican's we were in a new country with little or no opportunity. Fania came along and brought us out of that mess. I was too young to go to the clubs and experience the sounds. Fania brought those sounds home. Hector and Willie brought a whole new Genre to the house and the parties. My cousins went to all the concert's especially at the garden. I hung out at the corner and waited for the news of Hector's concert. "El Gran Baile en El Jardin de Madison".
    I truly loved and enjoyed that era. It was a drug ridden era with plenty of violence both at home and on the street. However, if it weren't for Hector, Willie, Ruben and the rest of the Fania All Star's I would have never come this far.
    God Bless my older cousins and friends who lived that life and era. I saw them fall during the late 80's and early 90's.
    They left it up to us to show the world what our music and culture was about for that era. I have never seen any one cuture in our country glorify that era. Shame on those of you that speak out against two great Puerto Rican's who brought an artistic redition of our culture, during that era, to the big screen. Sure, let's identify the great Jimi Hendrix without Heroin! As Puerto Rican's we got through the tough times. Our culture is evolving because of the things we have seen. Losing Hector Lavoe was a tragedy. Come, let us remember the past and change the future for our children. I praise Marc Anthony and Jennifer Lopez for taking the time to show us one of the many great musician's that lived during this era. And Thank You for reminding us we no longer live that way. Thank you for letting us reflect on that era and reminding us of a time we thought we were invincible.
    Support the Arts! Go out and see a Spanish Film Released by Marc Anthony and Jennifer Lopez! "Que Cante Mi Gente" Hector Lavoe

  1. vanessa Says:

    I'll I have to say is that it only made 3.5 million enough said!!

  1. new york doll Says:

    WHAT IS THE BOTTOM LINE?????


    People wanted to see more scenes of HECTOR rising to the top. !!! what is so hard to understand about this?

    You left the movie thinking that he was simply a drug addict who had everything and messed it all up.

    There was very little sympathy for Hector because you saw him showing up late and doing drugs alot during the film. However, NO ONE saw Hector struggle to gain the love of his audience and HENCE, the movie goers also did not feel like there were reasons to love him. We only heard about his success!!!! (WTF?)

    Remember that movie RAY? well, little things the directors added helped to gain sympathy from the movie goers. Remember the scenes were Ray wanted to get paid in SINGLE dollar bills because otherwise he wouldn't have known how much he was really getting paid? this was a clear sign of his struggle.


    FORGET PUCHI! it doesn't matter whether she played a big role in the movie or not, the downfall of this movie is the fact that Hector was not shown as a MASTER of his trade, we didn't see many scenes with him actually working on his fantastic music. Ultimately the reason why this movie was created was because Hector Lavoe was and still is a LEGEND!

    It is so SAD, this could have been an incredible opportunity for all of the people involved in this film to gain more love and fame.

    Go to YOuTUBE and search for an autobiography about Hector Lavoe (Spanish only).


  1. Missing Hector in NY Says:

    My family and I went to see El Cantante with great enthusiasm and optimism. My husband and I, along with our teenage sons, are huge fans of Hector Lavoe and ALL the members of the Fania All-Stars. Our sons grew up listening to all these great artists at home, in our car, and now on their IPods! We loved the 70s and 80s. Those were exciting times when we had fun and admired the bigger than life salseros who entertained us with their music. So we were longing to see this movie since it started production. JLo and Marc Anthony are wonderful artists but we were a bit skeptical about this project being in their hands. Still, we bought our movie tickets with pride and determination to support our fellow latinos. Unfortunately, we left the theater extremely disappointed that Hector's greatness was overshadowed by JLo's insistence on showing the audience that she could look beautiful since the camera was always focused on her. There's no doubt that JLo is a stunning woman and Marc Anthony has an incredible voice (although we would have preferred to hear Hector's voice), but to avoid confusion they should have named this movie El Cantante's Wife. I agree with the writer who mentioned the book, Cada Cabeza Es Un Mundo. It is a fascinating book about Hector Lavoe's life from the time he was born. There are wonderful photos in it as well.

  1. MenocrazyMeknowKarate Says:

    What did I learn from this movie? [thinking with an open mind now]

  1. MissNilsa Says:

    The voice is obviously what mesmorized the people. It was his talent which is evident to everyone even before the movie.

    Unfortunately the person lived a life that some people here are obviously not proud of but it is a reality. It is Hector's reality. Showing a movie without those parts of his life, would have probably made people feel better about it, I guess but living in New York and being around people who knew him intimately, I can say that the movie was not necessarily that far off of what really happened.

  1. nyricanboricua Says:

    I have been waiting to have a voice on this subject. I thought the opportunity to support our fellow Latinos (in this case the Puerto Ricans to be more specific), was totally missed. What ashame and I can not belive how we continue to lose sight on the power of one....here we drive in our cars proudly displaying our flags and want to talk up our culture, foods, music and dance! and we can't even figure out how to hold each other up!!! while the movie brought me so many wonderful memories growing up and my daughter was able to connect the stories told here with what she has been told about my upbringing and her grandmothers...becuase lets face it....most of us were either into the same experiences that was on screen or we were certainly familiar with it. My grievance is why cant we take this as an opportuntity to "exploit" Hector Lavoe, now that his name has been introduced to the world. Jimmy Smitts and so many other Puerto Rican actors and actresses...where are you and elevate this legend where Marc and Jennifer did not....and lets not knock Marc and Jennifer....because if someone out there with power would care to introduce the "great" voice of Hector Lavoe, please do....WE WOULD LOVE TO BE INSPIRED BY A MAN WHOSE LIFE IS SO FAMILIAR TO MANY OUT THERE....the gift he did have was his great voice and the sad words of his life in which he sang in a song!....

  1. Lexy Millan Says:

    Of course there is going to be negativity everywhere(no surprise).. Ummm, yes there was a lot of Puchi in the movie, reminder people she was telling the story! If you were telling the story of your husband, wouldn't you best remember the times you spent with him, therefore she was in the story alot!! The movie was great! And it was really real,from the person closest to him, or did you want his sister to tell the story...hmmmm??. It focused on Drugs and Music! From the Puchi's perspective that was the truth, i didnt take away that he's voice and music was amazing. We all as the audience knew that Hector was amazing, it showed the fans the downs that he went through,yet still the love for SalSa -the GuMbO- Round of applause all together.. Good Job!

  1. Miss D Says:

    In response to my Puerto Rican brothers and sisters many of you are losing site of what the movie was about. Hector was a man who sang from deep deep inside and he was real. The movie is a about a "Reality People don't take kindly to the real world, it might make us take a good look at ourselves. I don't see anyone from the white world having the guts to write or show part of our beautiful latin history. Hector is an important part any Puerto Rican history and whether we like jlo or m anthony the story line is good one. Of course this is my opinion. Love and Peace to You All!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  1. gringo Says:

    i just saw it it sucked what a big dissapointment everyone except springflower was right shame on you j lo

  1. Auri from Miami Says:

    I saw the movie the day it came out here in Miami. As a matter of fact the director came to the theater and introduced it. I thought the movie and the acting were great. The only thing I was not to happy with was the fact that Marc Anthony sang the songs himself. I think a real tribute to Hector would have been letting his music live thru the movie. My father is Colombian & my mom is Boricua so i was raised with Hectors music as el gran combo, niche ect. Hector Lavoes voice was unique and if the purpose was to have this generation the opportunity to learn about him and his music they should have let his music be part of the movie. Not have Anthony sing it. But besides that i gotta give it to JLO first time i can say she overdid herself in this role.......and Anthony was great too.

  1. stephanie Says:

    i saw the movie and i think that it was one the best movies i have seen. marc anthony and jennifer lopez make a wonderful couple on and off stage. they are really good together and anything they do as a couple is always their best. their sypathy inspires people to get up and dance and just live life and have fun. the characters that they represent are strong characters in life nd they take their part seriously and to heart. they make it seem like it was for real and like it just hapened yesterday. congratulationsfor the movie you guys are the best.!!!!

  1. Anthony Perez Says:

    I think people should look at this movie with an open mind. It is based on the views of Lavoe's wife Puchi. It is not based on some writer who wants to clean up the seedier side of Lavoe's life. Drugs were a big part of the scene in Latin Music in the 70's and 80's and still is, infact many musicians have had problems with drugs in all of the industry.
    This movie while not perfect portrays the seedier side of life they both lived mixed in with the fantasy of being bliss. It should be noted that most of the musicians who recorded for Fania lived life by still holding jobs when not recording.
    You can not knock a movie that is clearly taken its text from the Puchi's eyes and showing hoe famous or not Lavoe had problems like any one else with a drug problem. To castigate Jennifer and Marc for making this movie only shows that people want to glorify Hector and forget about who he really was. A man who indulged and enjoyed the seedier side of life and could not fight the addiction of drugs, because he liked getting high and it was his escape from the real world.
    He was a great singer and composer in the field of latin music and his life was real not a story book that we can idolize. Bravo!!!!!!!!

  1. yvette rivera Says:

    These comments coming from a world of "American Idol" fans.. Gimme a break!
    I though Jennifer and Marc were poor actors but I found them to prove themselves in this movie.. Marc made hector believable and as for jennifer, who else could play a newyorican from the Bx.. I loved it and thought it was awesome.. They did an excellent job with the music.. Makes me wanna go back to the Fania days...

  1. LUCINDA Says:

    THIS MOVIE IS PURE...Puerto Rican BASURA!!!!

  1. NANCY BLASE Says:

    I enjoyed this movie and loved Marc Anthony as Hector. I still enjoy my RECORDS (yes, records!!!!) with Hector, Willie Colon, Yomo Toro, etc. from the '70's with the Fania All Stars Live at the Cheetah, among others. I think Hector was so complicated that any movie that would do his life, stormy relationships, illness, drug problems and music justice would have to last a minimum of 4 hours! What an amazing talent lost way too soon. My hope is that the movie will encourage people to listen to and enjoy some of these great songs.

  1. latina9095 Says:

    After watching this movie, I sometimes forgot that it was about El Cantante. It should have been called the Puchi story. Too much emphasis was added to his addiction, as opposed to his musical and artistic side. JLo's scenes with her ridiculous attempt at sounding like Rosie Perez was a bit too much. What was she thinking??? I truly hope she leaves the acting/singing to the professionals!!

  1. jen Says:

    It's interesting to find so many critics claiming that there was no depth in the
    storyline. I agree. BUT, it has left me wanting MORE!!!! This film has only grazed the tip of the iceberg known as Hector Lavoe. As a child-(Nuyorican)- growing up in the 70's and 80's, Salsa music was a household staple. Yet, I never really knew much about the artists that pioneered this genre. This film offered me a glimpse into the life of this musical icon. Marc Anthony and Jennifer Lopez Sizzled!!!!!!!. They both channeled the very essence of that decandent era. Jennifer was convincing in her portrayal of the overbearing and thick skinned Puchi. While Marc, although not Lavoe, gave the role his soul. It is nostalgic. Summer nights in CP (Central Park), Noche Buena (Christmas Eve), Piraguas (snow cones). Awesome soundtrack. Overall I definately give it 4 out of 5 goosebumps****

  1. regina bernardo Says:

    The movie did not meet the expectations the audience wants to see. In my opinion, Jennifer Lopez should carefully choose the roles she plays in movies and the depths of storylines. But I think she excels best in romantic comedy films and she's known in that genre.

  1. PRLibre Says:

    for those that were not around when hector was, hector was very famous all around the world from china to japan and all of the americas his life was full of drugs and that was just his life same as ray charles, life. why not say something about that or critisize that movie. But the big problem here is that this was a movie that two Puerto Ricans made and thats the big problem and even the same Puerto Ricans get confuse with there loyalty and honor to our patria and our people. I personally Love the movie and was the greatest movie ever made from this two great Puerto Rican musicians and actrist. VIVA PUERTO RICO, QUE VIVA HECTOR LAVOE.

  1. Jackie and Ralphy Says:

    My boyfriend and I went to see El Cantante the first week it hit theaters, we had to travel to another state in order to watch it due to lack of theaters supporting the project. My family which is broken down into 4 generations attended the showing as well. We all loved and enjoyed the life and tragic loss of one of Salsa's pioneers. I have to say that I as well as my family are truly saddened by all the bad reviews attracting this movie. The acting was great by both Marc and Jenifer as well as all the up and coming Latino actors. Lots of people have asked my opinion on this movie, and I gave my honest opinion I wouldn't change anything about it, The movie shows Puerto Ricans in all different walks of life I loved it and so did my family it was such a powerful film and I'm so glad this film was introduce to all 4 generations of my family Hector's legacy will live on. I'm so glad the project was put together by Latinos this should only inspire Latinos that anything is possible when you have the right people on your corner its time to stick together and support our Latinos and there projects because if we don't who will!!!! So please put aside all your bad stereotypes that you may have about Jenifer Lopez she has made history and she did it to make it just a bit easier for the next Latino.............

  1. Ramosky Says:

    After reading many of the comments from this webpage I can tell that the movie was not about Hector (Lavoe) Perez. I don’t care too much about the movie because I don’t consider JL as an actress or Mr. Marc Anthony a salsa singer or actor. The movie is about the life of El Cantante. Does the movie show who this guy was? What was so special about his way of singing? The word Salsa was nothing but a new commercial way of calling the Afro Latino music. Fania Records some how came up with this name. The real name is Guaguanco. Hector was great because he could sing in the way that was easy for the people to follow the songs along with him. He could improvise like no other and that’s what salsa is all about. It looks like the movie focus strongly in his drugs addition, well, all the other musicians was using drugs too, or at least most of them. It was a good idea to make the movie because JL and M Anthony knew that the Latin community would like to see it, so one way or another they will make money. Hector was great for his unique style and every day he sounds better and better. The movie, that’s just a movie and if anyone wants to make a good film production about the time of the salsa uprising, it is necessary to have a lot more caliber than JL and Marc Anthony. There is no picture of Hector (Lavoe) Perez in the cover of the movie from what I see in this webpage. That is really a shame.

  1. nitza Says:

    i haven't seen the movie, but i feel proud that talented people like jlo & marc made a movie about our great singer hector lavoe. everyone criticize the movie, i respect that, but before the movie, nobody cared to know, understood or even talked about hector like is happening now. even my son, who is nine, now sings hector's songs. (never did before, eventhough i play my tapes on sundays) i believe these two "puertoricans" brought "life" back to hector's music, his legacy, our culture as puertoricans, latinos and salseros. instead of hating and stepping on our own people, let's support one another. Most of our great artists have used drugs, have been irresponsible, etc. however, are still remembered for their great talents and artisitc achievements. i believe that is the message jennifer & marc want to get across. no matter all the wrong doing & the turmoil of his life, hector was and still is a el cantante de los cantantes!!!!

  1. Jose Says:

    As a Puerto Rican i think this movie was awesome, I commend J-Lo and marc for trying to do something different, they didnt want to make it like every other biographical movie, They made it as unique as Hector was by telling the story through someone elses eyes, and who better to tell the story than his main lady. The music was great, anyone could see that hispanic or not. I do believe though that the movie was more for the hispanic palate, and thats why its getting so many bad reviews from the non hispanics. Say what you want about me but this movie was one of the most unique , well put together movies ive seen in a long time, and if you dont agree, then u are lying!!!!!

  1. niv3ks1gs Says:

    Does any one knows if they are going to show this movie in OHIO

  1. cts180 Says:

    I grew up in the late 1907-s 1980's to the thrilling salsa music of the fania label. I was, and still am, a huge fan of the genius-musicians of that era: Hector Lavoe, Willie Colon, Ruben Blades, Johnny Pacheco, etc. etc. What lyrics! What rythm, what sound! It made you dance, it made you laugh, it made you cry. I have found that the salsa of the 90's and post millenium is a far cry (with some noteable exceptions) from what it was. To this day I my heart races with the building tension in the music and cynical multi-layered interpretation of "Periodico de ayer", the propelling dance beat to the tragic, yet uplifting (somehow he does it) "El dia de mi suerte". Hector Lavoe is a part of the american pantheon of great artists and singers along with his musical colleagues of that great era.
    I often wondered why there was so little published about Hector Lavoe's life or, as a matter of fact, salsa as a musical art form as important as any other. I was thrilled to hear that two well-known musician artist's would be bringing Hector's story and artistic accomplishment to the screen. What was it that gave him that lyrical ability, that fire, that ability to connect with people in the face of all of his personal problems?
    I also wanted to hear the music, feel what it might have been like to be a part of this musical movement; some insight.
    I saw the movie even after reading the mediocre to negative reviews. I was sorely dissapointed in this movie, and do believe it is a tabloid style that showed many of the negatives relative to the positives of Hector Lavoe's life and music. The disjointed narrative and lack of focus on Lavoe's character and the constant, ever present camera panning to Ms. Lopez was a massive distraction and ultimately, an annoyance. I was hoping to feel