El Último Tramo
A STORY OF PERSEVERANCE, COMMUNITY & COMPASSION
On the outskirts of Buenos Aires is Vencer Para Vivir, a rehabilitation center you wouldn’t easily come across. I discovered it in 2022 when I visited my cousin, Lucas Fernández, for the first time in almost a decade. After spending two years there recovering from addiction, he showed me a place that defied my expectations, not a traditional program, but a community built on love, understanding, dialogue, and dedication.
For Lucas, it wasn’t just a rehabilitation center, it was home. During my visit, we decided to make a short film inspired by his experiences and the stories of others there.
Shot on location in Argentina, the film features both actors and real residents of Vencer Para Vivir, including Lucas in his first acting role. It tells a fictional yet deeply authentic story that seeks to humanize addiction and shed light on the realities of recovery. Rooted in Argentine culture, the presence of maté is woven throughout as a symbol of connection and community. While the story reflects a perspective on addiction in Latin America, it speaks to something universal and can resonate with people anywhere.
Follow along on our website here!
@elultimotramo_film on Instagram
Directed by Dominick Cura
Starring Lucas Fernandez, Orlando Alfonzo, Fiorella Muzzopappa & Fernando Casarín, Ailén Dettano
Written by Dominick Cura, Lucas Fernandez & Johnny Bauza-Schuler
Produced by Jeremiah Bauza-Schuler, Johnny Bauza-Schuler, Christian Hostetler
Edited by Johnny Bauza-Schuler
Music by Alejandro Müller
In Buenos Aires, a recovered addict desperate to rebuild his relationship with his son returns to the rehabilitation center that saved his life. When a fellow patient runs away, he sets out to bring him back before it’s too late.
Winner, Best Latine Story - Portland Film Festival (2024)
Official Selection - SIMI Film Fest (2025)
Official Selection - West Sound Film Festival (2025)
Official Selection - SAFILM San Antonio Film Festival (2025)
Official Selection - Philadelphia Latino Arts and Film Festival (2025)
Official Selection - Houston Latino Film Festival (2025)
Official Selection - San Jose International Short Film Festival (2024)