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.
