“Welcome to the Barrio,” the action/drama from producer David J. Miller’s Mindlight Films, is set for DVD release this summer by Laguna Pictures of Santa Clarita, Cal., followed by pay TV and cable and worldwide distribution.
“We chose Laguna because of its ties to distribution domestically and abroad, especially Mexico and Latin countries,” says co-producer Juan J. Frausto.
Director Jaime Mariscal wrote the story about a college student, who visits his family in the barrio, but when he reunites with his childhood friend, he is draw into his friend’s battle with the street gang leader, and events spiral out of control.
The story, says Mariscal, “is loosely based on people I knew when I was growing up in Little Village. I thought a story of struggle with family, friendship and becoming a man was an important story to tell.”
Filmed in Chicago in summer 2006 on a $200,000 budget, “Barrio” stars fast-rising Ramses Jimenez, who has a role in “Humbolt Park,” and Tony Ramirez.
Featured are Denise Trinidad, Yara Santalion, Carmen Cento, Phil Camacho, Tony Zurita, Jr. and David Marrero, who is responsible for much of the soundtrack.
“Barrio” is Mindlight’s eighth feature film. Miller also produced “Once Upon a Time in the Hood” “Finding Preet” “Love 101” and the upcoming “RiffRaff” and “Sketch.”
“We’re currently developing two features for 2008, including an untitled comedy and an ultra-low budget horror film that we hope to co-produce with another company,” Miller said.
Mindlight is located at 112 S. Sangamon; phone, 312/491-1433.
