Papa: Hemingway in Cuba

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.