EXCLUSIVE: Ilean Almaguer and Victoria Del Rosal have formally been set to join and co-star in Jorge Xolalpa’s 7th Feature film which began production last month in San Pedro, CA.
Although the plot is being kept under wraps, an insider tells EROCKS that the indie picture, currently listed on iMDB as “Happy Go Lucky” is being filmed chronologically and in parts as the story takes place in a span of 5 years, which gives the actors a window to change physically. It is also said to be an LGBTQ romantic/dramedy that touches on issues revolving around DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) and mental health in the queer community. The film stars Xolalpa (who is also the writer and director) and up-and-coming Latinx actor Cesar Camacho.
At this time it is unclear what roles Almaguer and Del Rosal will be portraying, but knowing Xolalpa and his track record, we know he isn’t a director to waste powerhouse talent on anything fruitless. Not to mention that this will be Del Rosal’s and Xolalpa’s 3rd collaboration (Valentina, Your Iron Lady being the first two). This is Xolalpa’s first time acting in one of his films. In a recent Instagram post where he teased us with some screenshots and a clip, Xolalpa explained how important and personal this project is to him. As an openly gay man and DACA recipient, it’s hard not to imagine how personal this is for him. Especially after revealing it took him approximately six years to get the film off the ground. It is also a known fact that Xolalpa underwent a very strict preparation as he lost a total of 70lbs for the role.
The picture is being produced by Brenda Quinones under Mighty Aphrodite Pictures and NYTA Films. Mighty Aphrodite Pictures has had quite the success in the last couple of years. With Your Iron Lady, MELANCOLiA, and soon SVGS coming this summer starring Vadhir Derbez and Elyfer Torres. After teasing a long break, it is great to see Xolalpa back on set. And I’m sure we’ll be seeing more of him once his upcoming SVGS is released this summer.
Xolalpa is repped by Avatar Entertainment and Echo Publicity. Almaguer is repped by Candu Management. Del Rosal is repped by Amsel, Eisenstadt, Frazier & Hinojosa Talent Agency (AEFH).
