La Clave Documentary | Opening Title, KeyArt, Media Kit.

My colleague and friend, photographer-director Mariella Sosa, known for her iconic work with Latin music legends like Selena, Marc Anthony, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Ismael Miranda - Fania All-Stars, as well as recent young talent, approached me with an idea born from our conversations about Latin music. She proposed a documentary exploring the “then” early controversy and evolution of reggaeton, drawing parallels with genres like swing, rock 'n' roll, salsa, and hip-hop that faced similar backlash.

The film would feature insights from producers and musicians, capturing their perspectives on reggaeton's growth and cultural significance. Notably, the project was produced on a shoestring budget, financed by Mariela's own savings, and further supported by her strong relationships with industry professionals who contributed their time and expertise.

The documentary explores reggaeton's unique sound, rooted in Afro-Caribbean heritage and La Clave, blending traditional folkloric elements with modern styles. The genre's percussive rhythms, such dembow, bomba, provide the energetic backbone, while lyrical themes focus on storytelling and social commentary, evident in "La Plena" and vocal sparring "Tiraera".
I contributed to the project by designing visuals that communicated the beauty of reggaeton's vibrant mix, using street murals that reflect the genre's raw, popular roots. I featured symbols of religion, living conditions, and music idols, creating graphics in an organic, unpretentious style that resonated with the project's authentic spirit. The design process was swift, going from pilot to final in no time. By exploring reggaeton's evolution and cultural significance, Mariela's documentary aims to shed light on the creative forces behind the genre and its enduring influence.

The documentary has gained international recognition, screening at prominent film festivals and available for streaming on FilmHub.