Brartt previously found box office success in more lighthearted films

He became a well known figure on the New York arts scene. But he died aged only 41 after a lifetime of alcohol and drug abuse.

The role attracted interest from notable Hispanic actors, in particular John Leguizamo, who began the film's development.

But he pulled out over problems with depicting Pinero's occasional sexual relatonships with teenage boys.

Bratt, however, told the Los Angeles Times shortly before the film's release that such aspects only made the role all the more challenging.

"He was a freak, his was a life of crime and hustling," he said.

"(Pinero) was far too troubling and complicated to be a true hero, but there's a reason to tell his story."

Heavyweight backing

Pinero is to be distributed by Miramax, the heavyweight studio behind small scale, independent-style films.

The company is thought to be considering a large scale promotional campaign touting Mr Bratt's performance.

This recognition of the film's significance is a contrast to previous attitudes towards Hispanic characters and storylines in films.

Film studios have previously been criticised by Hispanic leaders for considering films regarding Hispanic culture to be niche products only worth selling to a specific audience.

They cite Selena, a biopic charting the rise and tragic death of singer Selena starring a then relatively unknown Jennifer Lopez.

'Compelling'

It was only shown in limited cinemas despite massive demand from all demographic groups.

It has been argued the film would have made more money if it had been put on a more general release and marketed as such.

Tim Williams from Greenstreet Films, who produced the film, says Bratt's performance should outstrip any attempt to put the film in a niche market.

"We didn't say 'Oh lets make a Hispanic movie', Bratt transcends that," he said.

"It's not just about getting Hispanic actors in films. It's about telling stories of Hispanic people who made a difference. Sure he's Hispanic but it's the story itself that makes it so compelling."

Now many are also hoping that any success on the film's part may prove decisive in getting more representation for the Hispanic community figures on screen.