Papa: Hemingway in Cuba 2016

Biography

Drama

Box Office

$1.2M

Runtime

110 min

Language

English

Directed by

Bob Yari

Made by

Yari Film Group (YFG)

Test your knowledge of Papa: Hemingway in Cuba with our quiz!

Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for Papa: Hemingway in Cuba (2016). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.

In PAPA, a poignant tale based on true events, we follow the journey of Ed Myers (Giovanni Ribisi), a writer whose life is dramatically shaped by his idol, the iconic Ernest Hemingway. Set against the backdrop of late 1950s Cuba, the film begins with Ed, a young boy who endured abandonment by his father, leading him to grow up in an orphanage. Inspired by Hemingway’s writing, Ed pursues his own career as a journalist for the Miami Globe.

His life takes a turn when his colleague, Debra Hunter (Minka Kelly), encourages him to send a heartfelt letter to Hemingway, which he had hesitated to do. Surprised and thrilled, Ed receives a call from Hemingway, inviting him to Havana. The two soon meet on Hemingway’s boat, where the legendary author shares his wisdom on fishing and storytelling, introduced with the advice on “the power of less” in writing, exemplified by the six-word story he scribbles on a cocktail napkin: > “For sale, baby shoes, never worn.”

As their friendship blooms, Ed makes multiple trips to Finca Vigia (Hemingway’s estate), experiencing the intricacies of the writer’s life. Ed bonds with Mary Hemingway (Joely Richardson), who, alongside Hemingway, welcomes him into their world as they navigate the dangers posed by the Cuban Revolution. Political tensions rise, and Ed becomes more than a visitor; he finds himself entangled in Hemingway’s personal struggles, particularly as Hemingway battles depression and the haunting memories of his past.

The film highlights critical moments as Ed witnesses Hemingway’s brilliance intertwined with fragility, from casual gatherings to the stormy tensions at home. One memorable dinner emphasizes Hemingway’s complex relationship with Mary, where a seemingly innocent family celebration devolves into a bitter argument, showcasing their passionate yet tumultuous love. Amidst their battles, Ed offers support to both Hemingway and Mary as they navigate their emotional storms.

As Ed immerses himself in Hemingway’s world, he grows into a confidant, and under the mounting pressures of a politically charged environment, he finds himself at a crossroads. When an FBI agent (whose motives intertwine with Ed’s newfound loyalty to Hemingway) approaches him about the author’s political beliefs, Ed is torn between professional obligation and personal allegiance.

Hemingway’s decline becomes more apparent, culminating in chilling scenes where he contemplates life and death. The atmosphere thickens as Ed and Mary, fearing for Hemingway’s life, become his lifelines, striving to keep him grounded. In a raw confrontation, Ed steps up, grabbing a pistol from Hemingway’s hand, determined not to let his idol succumb to despair.

In the end, as Hemingway confronts his demons with Ed as his witness, the script draws powerful parallels between life’s triumphs and tragedies. Ed leaves Havana changed, becoming a more insightful writer, while the specter of Hemingway’s struggles lingers in his mind, ultimately leading to the legendary writer’s tragic end in Ketchum, Idaho, a year and a half later.

Through beautifully shot scenes across Cuba, including trips to notable Hemingway locations, PAPA speaks to the intricacies of mentorship, the pain of loss, and the delicate balance between admiration and understanding our heroes as fallible humans. The film concludes with a touching reflection on Ed’s transformative relationship with Hemingway, a bond that transcends time and speaks volumes about the human condition itself.

Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of Papa: Hemingway in Cuba (2016) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.

Ed's Abandonment

In 1935, a father abandons his four-year-old son, Ed, in a Seattle department store during the Christmas season. Growing up in an orphanage, Ed is inspired by the writings of Ernest Hemingway, which shape his aspirations to become a writer.

1935 Seattle

Letter to Hemingway

Fast forward to 1959, Ed, now a writer for the Miami Globe, types out a heartfelt letter to Hemingway but hesitates to send it. Encouraged by his colleague Debra, she secretly mails the letter, leading to a life-changing phone call.

1959 Miami

Meeting the Legend

Ed arrives in Havana to meet his childhood idol, Ernest Hemingway, on his boat accompanied by crew member Gregorio. Hemingway becomes a mentor to him, teaching him both fishing and the nuances of writing.

1959 Havana

The Power of Less

While dining at the Floridita, Hemingway shares his writing philosophy with Ed, particularly an influential six-word story he writes on a cocktail napkin. Ed witnesses Hemingway struggle with the fame that comes with being a legendary author.

1959 Floridita, Havana

Political Tensions Rise

On a return trip to Havana, Ed observes the growing police presence and poverty in the area. He meets Hemingway and his wife Mary at their estate, where they form a closer bond amidst the escalating Cuban Revolution.

1959 Finca Vigia, Havana

Ed's New Love

As Ed's relationship with Debra develops, they enjoy a carefree moment of skinny dipping in Miami. Meanwhile, the political landscape in Cuba becomes increasingly volatile, setting a stark contrast to Ed's personal life.

1959 Miami

Witnessing Violence

Ed and Hemingway find themselves in a bar during an incident where rebels confront government soldiers. Hemingway expresses disillusionment about war and its futility, deepening Ed's understanding of his mentor’s complexities.

1959 Havana

Hemingway's Despair

In a troubling moment, Hemingway shows signs of severe depression, loading a pistol, leaving Ed worried about his mentor's mental state. Ed tries to reach out to help, navigating through Hemingway's emotional turmoil.

Finca Vigia, Havana

Mary's Concern

Mary Hemingway calls Ed late at night, urging him to return to help lift Hemingway’s spirits. She fears for her husband's life, reflecting the weight of the emotional and political turbulence surrounding them.

2:30 AM

Hemingway's Birthday Party

Mary organizes a grand birthday party for Hemingway, inviting notable friends from his past. While initially lifted by the festivity, the celebration escalates into a heated argument between Hemingway and Mary, revealing deep-seated issues in their marriage.

Finca Vigia, Havana

Confronting the FBI

An FBI agent approaches Ed, probing his connection with Hemingway regarding his political stance. Ed refuses to involve Hemingway, feeling the weight of conflicting loyalties between his mentor and his job.

Miami

The Coast Guard Incident

While out on the fishing boat, the group faces scrutiny from the U.S. Coast Guard, who are wary of Hemingway's rumored connections to Cuban rebels. Tension arises as Ed tries to protect Hemingway’s reputation in the face of government suspicion.

Havana

Love and Regret

After witnessing the fallout from Hemingway's struggles, Ed reflects on his own relationship with Deb. He finds himself torn between career aspirations and emotional commitments, ultimately confessing his feelings for her.

Miami

Tragic Goodbye

The story culminates with Ed learning about Hemingway's tragic suicide in 1961, marking a significant and sorrowful turning point in his life. Ed reflects on the profound impact Hemingway had on him, both personally and professionally.

1961

Life After Loss

In the wake of Hemingway's death, Ed continues to carry the lessons from their relationship. He moves to Ketchum, Idaho, to be close to Mary Hemingway, reflecting on the importance of mentorship and the human condition.

Ketchum, Idaho

Characters

Explore all characters from Papa: Hemingway in Cuba (2016). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.

Ed Myers

Ed Myers is a young journalist who idolizes Ernest Hemingway and seeks to connect with his literary hero. His journey unfolds from being an unsure writer to discovering his strength through the mentorship of Hemingway. His character embodies the quest for identity and the struggle between personal aspiration and the need for acceptance.

📝 Writer 🦸‍♂️ Aspirational 💔 Vulnerable

Ernest Hemingway

Ernest Hemingway is portrayed as a complex figure, grappling with personal demons while also striving for creative expression. As a mentor to Ed, he reveals both his genius in writing and his darker struggles with mental health, addiction, and self-worth. Hemingway's character serves as a reminder of the duality of human experience.

📚 Literary Icon 🍷 Complex 🎣 Mentor

Mary Hemingway

Mary Hemingway, Ernest's wife, is depicted as a nurturing yet profoundly troubled figure, trying to support her husband while facing his deepening despair. Her character highlights the impact of mental illness on relationships and the struggle to maintain love amidst chaos and conflict.

💔 Supportive 👩‍❤️‍👨 Caring 😟 Struggling

Setting

Learn where and when Papa: Hemingway in Cuba (2016) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.

Time period

Late 1950s

The late 1950s was a tumultuous time in Cuba, marked by the Cuban Revolution against the government of Fulgencio Batista. This period saw significant political and social upheaval, as citizens began to fight for change, influencing the lives of many, including renowned figures like Ernest Hemingway. The backdrop of this revolution serves as a critical element in the narrative, contrasting personal struggles with broader societal conflicts.

Location

Cuba, Havana, Finca Vigia

The movie takes place in Cuba during the late 1950s, prominently featuring Havana and the Hemingway estate, Finca Vigia. Havana is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful architecture, and complex history, particularly during times of political turmoil. Finca Vigia, Hemingway's former home, is preserved as a museum, showcasing the lifestyle of the iconic writer.

🌴 Tropical 🏠 Home 🌊 Coastal

Themes

Discover the main themes in Papa: Hemingway in Cuba (2016). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.

🖋️

Mentorship

The theme of mentorship is central to the story, as Ed Myers finds inspiration and guidance from his idol, Ernest Hemingway. Through their interactions, Ed learns not only about writing but also about the complexities of life, hero worship, and human flaws. This relationship illustrates the transformative power of mentorship in personal and professional growth.

💔

Human Flaws

The narrative explores the imperfections of its characters, particularly Hemingway, who struggles with depression and addiction. It highlights the fallibility of heroes and the impact of their past traumas. The film invites contemplation on how even the most celebrated individuals grapple with their vulnerabilities.

🌊

Adventure

Adventure permeates the film as Ed embarks on a journey to meet his literary idol, which leads to both exhilarating experiences and profound realizations. The escapism of fishing in the sea and diving into the unpredictable nature of Hemingway's life symbolizes the spirit of adventure and discovery that shapes Ed's identity as a writer.

Movies with Similar Twists and Themes

Uncover films that echo the narrative beats, emotional arcs, or dramatic twists of the one you're exploring. These recommendations are handpicked based on story depth, thematic resonance, and spoiler-worthy moments — perfect for fans who crave more of the same intrigue.