THE OLD MAN AND THE PARROT - REVIEW

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The Absurdist Comedy - "The Old Man and the Parrot"

Character Actor Ruben Rabasa Makes Leading Man Debut after 40 Years in Film and TV

World Premiere at Slamdance February 20

Encore Screening February 22

Director/co-writer Gabriel de Varona and producer/co-writer Kevin Ondarza are excited to announce that Slamdance will host the World Premiere of The Old Man and the Parrot, a darkly comedic tale of love, taxidermy, and the afterlife. The Old Man and the Parrot will screen to its very first audiences on February 20, 2026 as part of Slamdance, with an encore on February 22.

Veteran character actor Ruben Rabasa, well known for his collaborations with Andy Garcia, steps into the lead role for the first time in his career. Rabasa's appearances span over four decades, from Police Academy 5 to I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson to Thelma to Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania.

The film also stars Searfin Falcon, Rene Lavan and Kabella Bobadilla.

A COCUYO PRODUCTION

The Old Man and the Parrot weaves a surreal yet deeply human story of grief, redemption, and the absurdity of life itself. With a climax that forces Praxi to choose between clinging to the past and embracing an uncertain future, the film is a heartfelt exploration of what it truly means to let go.

REVIEW

I enjoyed 'The Old Man And The Parrot' immensely. The rich Cuban culture is infused into the story's heartbeat. Plenty of good music, drama, comedy, sensuality, and magic! Honestly, I can't resist any film with a Parrot or an Alchemist! One of my good friends is a Parrot! For the first ten minutes, I kept looking at Ruben Rabasa, going, "I know that guy! Who is that guy?" I've seen that guy!" Then you finally remember the movies you've seen him in. Finally, Ruben gets to be the leading man, a Cuban immigrant who carries around a taxidermied stuffed parrot he believes carries the spirit of his deceased romantic partner. (Parrots are well-known links between the natural and spirit world.) The Parrot curse must be lifted for her to rest in peaceand for Ruben to let go. Ruben slips into the feisty multi-layered character with relish.

Dark humor and magical realism weave together and infuse the surreal story with laughter, grief, friendship, and redemption. Magical Realism is alive and well, and brings tears and laughter to the surface.

I want to give a shout-out to the costumes and cinematography that infuse the story with the vividid personalities of the characters.

Don't miss it!

The Old Man and the Parrot at Slamdance: Festival & Screening Details

Landmark Theater 5 - 8000 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046

February 20, 2026, 6:30pm

Landmark Theater 4 - 8000 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046

February 22, 2026, 9:15pm

Director/Co-Writer Gabriel de Varona

Producer/Co-Writer Kevin Ondarza

Star Ruben Rabasa

Praxi bursts into the home of spiritual guru, Radel, armed with a pistol and a taxidermied parrot. His demand? “Free Yoelvis’ soul from this bird!” But Radel, who is recovering from a stroke, can’t help him. His estranged daughter, Ana, is forced to confront Praxi and unravel the bizarre claim. As Praxi recounts his romance with Yoelvis, we flash back to their attempt to open a vegan Cuban restaurant and their fateful encounter with Radel. There, the truth behind the curse emerges, revealing Radel’s motivations, Yoelvis’ secrets, and why Ana may be the only one capable of undoing the spell.

The Old Man and the Parrot: 85 minutes / USA

English & Spanish w/ Subtitles

Justin Cook PR | Lankershim Blvd | North Hollywood, CA 91601 US