Crabs in A Barrel (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack by Rody Josué Huertas)

Crabs in a Barrel

In 2021, I had the opportunity to compose music for a short film that is currently available on HBO MAX. In this film score, you’ll hear a mix of Afro-Latin rhythms, electronic sounds, and playful trombone effects that add a bit of humor to the scenes. These musical elements perfectly complement the story of Crabs in a Barrel, a dark comedy that humorously explores into the struggles and jealousies of being an artist in an often unfair world.

The film follows Yoly, who was once voted most likely to succeed in high school. Now in her early 30s, Yoly is an aspiring writer, but she feels disillusioned and desperate. At a celebration for her perpetually lucky friend Caro, Yoly reconnects with her artist friends and can’t help but feel that everyone else’s life is finally coming together. Just as Yoly excitedly shares that she’s a semi-finalist for a prestigious writer’s grant, her world is turned upside down when she discovers that Caro has won the grant instead. Embarrassed and furious, Yoly leads a rebellious rally cry for all the overlooked artists—but in reality, it’s mostly for herself. Directed by Michael León, Crabs in a Barrel had its world premiere in the USA in 2021. The narrative short, presented in English, runs for 18 minutes. I invite you to watch and enjoy this short film, where the music helps bring the story’s humor and tension to life.

Starring: Ashley Alvarez, Jacqueline Guillen, Katherine George, Nate Betancourt

Director: Michael León

Composer: Rody Josué Huertas

TVMA-ComedyLatinoInternationalMovie-2022