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EMPIRE
IN THEATERS FRIDAY DEC 6th
Empire
is an energetic urban gangster movie with an unusual twist. A hard
living New York "street pharmacist", Victor Rosa played
by John Leguizamo ("Collateral Damage," "Moulin Rouge,"
"Romeo and Juliet") , finds an unconventional way out
of his life of crime as he pursues the American Dream. He enters
the world of a big time Wall Street, the promise of substantial
returns and a powerful Investment Banker, played by Peter Sarsgaard,
(Boys Don't Cry).Victor's mastery of life on the street does not
prepare him for the new life he seeks and the stakes are higher
than he ever imagined.
Not only
is the story engaging with great action and visuals, but there are
also excellent performances. Leguizamo in particular proves himself
a strong leading man, both tough and vulnerable. Better known for
playing unusual offbeat characters, Leguizamo now has proof that
he is a leading man. Reyes is a capable director getting excellent
performances from most the actors. Peter Scarsgaard gives an appropriately
creepy performance. Denise Richards (Undercover Brother) delivers
her only believable role to date as a self absorbed rich bitch (playing
herself?). Isabelle Rossellini gives a memorable performance as
the dealer to the dealers. Good performances also were delivered
by Sonia Braga (An American Family), Fat Joe and Treach.
Empire
is the first release of Arenas Entertainment, the new Latino film
label in partnership with Universal Pictures.
Selected
as the opening night attraction of the New York Latino Film Festival,
this debut film from the musician/choreographer turned writer/director
Franc. Reyes and features an original score by multi-Grammy Award
winner and Latin music legend, Rubén Blades.
Read
the Interview with the
Director, Franc. Reyes
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