Those who like How to Be a Latin Lover may be pleased to know that Apple TV+’s upcoming Acapulco series is inspired by the comedy film starring Eugenio Derbez, one of the hottest Mexican commodities in Hollywood as both actor and filmmaker. Executive produced and starred by Derbez, the new comedy show premieres Oct. 8
Acapulco is a prequel to the film that features a younger Máximo played by Enrique Arrizon, a young Mexican actor who was nominated for a Diosa de Plata award for his role in the 2017 drama Las Hijas de Abril.
A journey back to the 1980s, the new series tells the story of twenty-something Máximo whose dream of working as a cabana boy at the hottest resort in the Mexican port of Acapulco. However, the gig is more complex than he thought. To survive and succeed, Maximo must learn to navigate a demanding clientele, a mercurial mentor and a complicated home life, all while facing temptations and the appeal of shortcuts to get the job done. The show was actually shot in Puerto Vallarta.
Joining Derbez and Arrizon as part of the ensemble cast are newcomer Fernando Carsa, Damián Alcázar (La Ley de Herodes), Camila Perez (Gotham), Chord Overstreet (Glee), Vanessa Bauche (Amores Perros), Regina Reynoso (Ahí te Encargo), Jessica Collins (Catch Me If You Can) and Rafael Cebrián (Narcos).
Chris Spain and Jon Zack, who penned How to Be a Latin Lover, are credited as writers. The show’s writing team includes Mara Vargas Jackson (La Casa de las Flores), Eduardo Cisneros (Instructions Not Included), Chris Harris (How I Met Your Mother), Jason Shuman (Bangkok Dangerous) and Austin Winsberg (Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist).
Series directors include an impressive combination of talent from both sides of the border. They are Roberto Sneider (Me Estás Matando, Susana) along with some Hollywood award-winning filmmakers who have helmed successful and acclaimed shows like Jay Karas (Superstore), Tristram Shapeero (Community) and Dean Holland (The Office). Also directing is Richard Shepard (The Matador).
