José (2018): Cast, Ratings & Box Office
José is a 2018 drama directed by Li Cheng, starring Enrique Salanic as José, Manolo Herrera and Ana Cecilia Mota. It runs 1 hour 25 minutes and earned $26,563 worldwide. Its Echo Score is 73/100.
- Released
- Runtime
- 1h 25m (85 min)
- Director
- Li Cheng
- Genre
- Drama
- Original language
-
Spanish
- Studio
- YQstudio LLC
- After the credits
- No No extra scene
What Is José About?
The premise of José without spoilers.
Living a difficult life with his mother in Guatemala, José finds solace in fleeting moments and his phone. His days are spent delivering food and navigating a challenging environment marked by poverty and religious conservatism. Considered his mother's favorite, José's world is transformed when he encounters Luis, leading him on a journey of intense passion, emotional pain, and profound self-discovery.
José Cast & Characters
Enrique Salanic leads the cast as José, with Manolo Herrera as Luis and Ana Cecilia Mota as Mom. Directed by Li Cheng; 16 actors are credited in all.
- Director Li Cheng
- Enrique Salanic as José
- Manolo Herrera as Luis
- Ana Cecilia Mota as Mom
- Alba Irene Lemus
Also Starring in José
· 12 more- Carlos Humberto Fuentes Maldonado
- Cesar Lorenzo Yojcom Candido
- Jennifer Cecilia Amoia Mota
- Jhakelyn Waleska Gonzalez Gonzalez
- Juan Andres Molina Cardona
- Esteban López
- Evelyn Celinda Bautista Torres
- Jashua Belvino Argueta Mejia
- Valeria Maribel Xutuc Reyes
- Mytian Ticas
- Rony Andres Saavedra
- Tania Guevara
More from Li Cheng
One more film directed by Li Cheng: José.
José Reviews & Ratings
Our Echo Score gives it 73/100, strongest in art & craft (80) and weakest in story & flow (60).
José Echo Score Breakdown
José presents a nuanced, modestly effective portrait of gay life in conservative Guatemala. Critics commend the director's quiet yet observant style and the film's honest depiction of sexuality, while several reviewers note structural and narrative unevenness that hampers cohesion. Users echo admiration for performances and visuals but point to a meandering second half and an unsatisfying conclusion. The film succeeds in atmosphere and emotional resonance, though its storytelling flaws limit its broader impact.
Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.
- Art & Craft 80
In terms of direction and visual execution, José is widely praised for its understated yet striking composition. Critics highlight the director's quiet, observant approach and the cinematography’s beautiful, documentary‑style framing, while a few note imperfect editing and occasional structural irregularities. Overall, the film’s artful aesthetics contribute strongly to its mood.
- Character & Emotion 78
When it comes to character and emotional depth, José benefits from nuanced performances, especially from newcomer Enrique Salanic, whose subtle portrayal draws empathy. Critics and users alike commend the human element and the authenticity of the actors, though one critic describes the titular character as somewhat blank. The overall character work is solid, providing an engaging emotional core.
- Story & Flow 60
The film’s narrative presents an honest, neo‑realist glimpse into gay life, earning praise for its originality and emotional resonance. However, several reviewers point to an episodic structure, meandering pacing, and an inconclusive ending that weaken coherence. Consequently, while the story is compelling in moments, its uneven flow detracts from overall engagement.
- Sensory Experience 78
In terms of sensory experience, José delivers a compelling visual and auditory palette. Reviewers highlight its beautiful cinematography, atmospheric score, and a documentary‑style aesthetic that enhances realism. Though the sound design is not heavily discussed, the combined visual‑sound elements effectively immerse the viewer in the film’s somber setting.
- Rewatch Factor 68
The rewatch factor of José is moderate; its honest portrayal and strong performances invite repeat viewings for deeper appreciation. Critics and audiences find the emotional truth compelling, yet structural weaknesses and an ambiguous ending may limit its lasting appeal. Thus, the film offers modest replay value for viewers drawn to its atmospheric realism.
José Box Office
José grossed $26,563 worldwide.
Worldwide gross
$26.6K
- US & Canada
- $26.6K
José Trailers & Videos
The trailer of José.
José Also Known As
5 alternative titles, including “Χοσέ” and “Хосе”.
- Also known as
-
- Χοσέ
- Хосе
- 荷西的十九歲
- 호세
- 何塞
Seen José?
José FAQ: Cast, Box Office & Runtime
Runtime, release date, director, cast, box office, post-credit scenes and language of José, each answered in a sentence.
How long is José?
José runs 1 hour 25 minutes (85 minutes).
When was José released?
José was released on September 6, 2018.
Who directed José?
José was directed by Li Cheng.
More films by Li Cheng Who is in the cast of José?
José stars Enrique Salanic as José, Manolo Herrera as Luis and Ana Cecilia Mota as Mom, among 16 credited actors.
How much did José make at the box office?
José grossed $26,563 worldwide.
Does José have a post-credit scene?
No. José has no extra scene during or after the credits.
What language is José in?
The original language of José is Spanish.
Coming soon to your phone
The Plot Explained Movie Summary App
From blockbusters to hidden gems: plot summaries, endings explained and timelines on your phone. Save your favorites and never miss a twist again.
Be the first to know when it launches. Your email stays private, always. Learn more about the app
