Watch Gordita Chronicles

The HBO Max original series Gordita Chronicles is a heartfelt coming-of-age story about a Cuban-American family living in 1980s Miami. The series follows the journey of a young girl named Carlota (played by newcomer Olivia Goncalves) as she navigates the ups and downs of teenage life while growing up in a tight-knit community that celebrates food, family, and culture.

At the center of the show is Carlota's family, a lively and warm group of people who are constantly trying to find their place in a changing world. Her mother, Yolanda (Diana Maria Riva), is a hardworking single mom who is determined to keep her family together no matter what. Her older siblings, Lettie and Rafael (played by Selenis Leyva and Juan Javier Cardenas, respectively), are struggling with their own issues as they try to figure out their paths in life.

Despite the challenges they face, the family finds comfort in their traditions, especially when it comes to food. The show is filled with scenes of mouth-watering Cuban dishes being prepared and consumed, from lechon asado to tostones to arroz con pollo. Food is not just a way of nourishing their bodies, but also a way of connecting with their heritage and expressing their love for one another.

As Carlota navigates her teenage years, she grapples with issues of body image and self-esteem. She is a "gordita" (a term that means "little fat girl" in Spanish), and the show explores how society's narrow beauty standards can affect a young girl's sense of self-worth. However, Carlota is not defined by her weight, and the show celebrates her intelligence, humor, and kindness.

Gordita Chronicles is not just a story about one family, but a larger exploration of what it means to be part of a community. The show introduces viewers to a colorful cast of characters, including Carlota's best friend, Cari (played by Kaley Ronayne), and her crush, Sam (played by Joshua Suárez). Each character has their own unique struggles and triumphs, but they all share a deep connection to their cultural identity.

The show also touches on larger political and social issues, such as the Mariel boatlift and the AIDS epidemic, which had a significant impact on the Cuban-American community during the 1980s. Yet, the show never loses sight of the human stories at the heart of these events, and how they affect individual lives.

Throughout the series, Carlota's voiceover provides a witty and insightful commentary on the events unfolding around her. Her observations are often humorous, but they also reveal a young girl who is wise beyond her years. Her perspective adds an extra layer of depth and nuance to the show, making it more than just a nostalgic portrait of a bygone era.

Overall, Gordita Chronicles is a charming and engaging show that celebrates the power of family, food, and community. It is a story that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider, and a reminder that our differences are what make us unique and special. With its strong cast, heartfelt writing, and delicious food, Gordita Chronicles is a delightful addition to the HBO Max lineup.

Gordita Chronicles is a series that ran for 1 seasons (10 episodes) between June 23, 2022 and on HBO Max