Puerto Rican cinema is heading to theaters across the United States with Perla, the musical drama starring Zuleyka Rivera, Carlos Ponce and Paz Vega.

Following its theatrical run in Puerto Rico and screenings in international markets, Perla will open in select U.S. theaters beginning October 9, bringing its story of music, identity, family and transformation to audiences across the country.

Directed by David Norris, the film follows Vicente Espinel (Ponce), a former child star of Puerto Rican folk music who now makes a living performing at a small café-theater. His life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Perla (Rivera), a successful urban music artist who remembers Vicente as one of the musicians she admired growing up.

When Perla proposes that they collaborate on a song, Vicente finds himself entering a musical world far removed from the one he knows. Their unlikely partnership brings traditional Puerto Rican sounds and contemporary urban music together while opening a larger conversation about cultural identity, generational differences, family and masculinity.

The film also stars Spanish actress Paz Vega as Frances, alongside Georgina Borri, Modesto Lacén, Yamil Ureña, Luis Gonzaga, Teófilo Torres, Hermes Croatto, Nashali Enchautegui and Laura Carmine. Filmed in Puerto Rico, the production features several recognizable locations around the island, including La Perla.

Perla arrives in the U.S. following a standout theatrical run in Puerto Rico, where it became the most-watched local production of the year so far and achieved the longest theatrical run for a Puerto Rican film in 2026.

Its U.S. rollout will include theaters in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, New York, Houston, Fort Worth, Phoenix, Tampa, Chicago, Ventura County, Naples, Denver and additional markets. Among the locations is AMC Empire 25 in New York City's Times Square, along with participating AMC, Regal, CMX, Marcus, America Cinemas and Sonora Cinemas locations.

The U.S. release marks another milestone for a production built around Puerto Rican talent, locations and music while exploring themes intended to reach audiences beyond the island.

Written by Norris and Jorge González, Perla is produced by Yamara Rodríguez, with Joel Iván Rivera serving as executive producer and DJ Luian and Tiffany Román Louk behind the soundtrack.

Perla opens in select U.S. theaters October 9.