The Colombian film A Poet / Un poeta, directed by Simón Mesa Soto, received a 100% Certified Fresh badge from Rotten Tomatoes this week after securing 40 positive reviews, positioning it as one of the best-reviewed films of the year so far. The distinction reflects a rare level of critical consensus and signals the film’s growing resonance with international audiences and critics alike.
Praised for its formal rigor, emotional intelligence, and sharply observed storytelling, A Poet has steadily built momentum since its release, standing out within a crowded cinematic landscape. Its reception not only marks a significant milestone for the film and its creative team, but also reinforces the continued vitality and global relevance of contemporary Colombian cinema.
Winner of the Un Certain Regard Jury Prize at Cannes and nominated for Best International Film at the Independent Spirit Awards, A Poet expanded last week to additional cities around the U.S. after a very strong box office opening in New York and Los Angeles.
Colombia’s official submission for Best International Feature at the 98th Academy Awards, the film has been a favorite on the festival circuit, receiving multiple awards including Horizontes Latinos at San Sebastián; Best Film at Budapest and El Gouna; Best Narrative Feature at Philadelphia; Bright Horizons at Melbourne; and Lima’s Special Jury Prize, Best Actor, and Best Cinematography.
A Poet tells the story of Oscar, a middle-aged, erratic failed writer who has given up on life. Unemployed and living with his family, he wanders the streets of Medellín in a drunken stupor, lamenting the state of literature in his home country and embodying the cliché of the tortured artist. However, the opportunity to mentor a young student offers a chance at redemption—if he doesn’t screw it up first.
In a performance marked by darkly comic pathos, first-time actor Ubeimar Rios stars in this raw and riotous farce about how good deeds are often met with the universe’s idea of cruel and unusually poetic punishment.
