The Latin Explosion: A New America (HBO)

About The Latin Explosion: A New America (HBO)

The Latin Explosion: A New America is a 2015 HBO documentary that pays tribute to the artists and visionaries who have shaped America’s growing Latin culture across multiple decades. This creative mix of archival footage, interviews, and animated sequences combines to tell the story of the rise of Latin music and pop culture in the United States. The film celebrates the artists from Celia Cruz and Tito Puente to Gloria Estefan, Ricky Martin, and many more who have had a profound cultural and social influence on America.

Making / Production

The Latin Explosion: A New America was directed by Jon Alpert and Matthew O'Neill, and produced by Tommy Mottola. The film received wide critical acclaim thanks to its eye-catching mix of vibrant storytelling, historical context, and dynamic musical sequences.

Actors

• Marc Anthony as himself - a powerful musical presence and a key figure in Latin music's growth.
• Ricky Martin as himself - his breakout success story is prominently featured.
• Jennifer Lopez as herself - her impact on pop culture and Latin representation is highlighted.
• Lining Crespo as himself - one of the key figures in Latin pop history.
• Jose Feliciano as himself - shares his memories and insights into the Latin music scene.
• Pitbull as himself - his story is used to illustrate the genre's resonance with younger generations.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film features interviews with music icons who have contributed to the Latin music scene.
• The narration for the documentary is provided by John Leguizamo.
• It captures the "Latin Explosion" of the 90s and 2000s and shows how it has transformed the American musical landscape.

Music, Soundtrack

• The soundtrack feature some of the most recognizable Latin tracks in history, from artists like Marc Anthony, Ricky Martin, and Gloria Estefan.
• Celia Cruz's classic song "Azucar" is given pride of place in the soundtrack.
• The documentary also serves up a great mix of traditional and modern Latin tunes throughout, reflecting the diverse range of styles within the genre.

Quotes

• "This is our music, and it has truly become America's music as well." - Marc Anthony
• "Now what we're seeing is that the Latin culture is influencing mainstream America." - Pitbull
• "I am proud of my heritage and I am proud of who I am." - Jennifer Lopez