Ari Lopez, the young actor who was cast as the lead in City of Dreams at the ripe age of 14, is a revelation. The film was shot six years ago and opened in theaters country wide to reviews lauding the content but most importantly the work of the talent, beginning with Lopez.
Inspired by true events, City of Dreams, directec by
Mohit Ramchandani follows Jesús, a young Mexican boy whose dreams of becoming a soccer star are shattered when he’s trafficked across the border and sold to a sweatshop making fast fashion in downtown Los Angeles. Thrust into a world of exploitation and despair, he’s forced to adhere to the grueling work schedule dictated by El Jefe, a boss who promises freedom for those who complete their quotas. Despite Jesús’ hellish existence, he finds solace in Elena, a girl who was similarly betrayed and sold into slavery. When she goes missing and another co-worker Carlitos is severely beaten, Jesus realizes that the only way to save himself and the others is to fight back, even if it costs him his life.
The theme song, penned by hall-of-fame songwriter Linda Perry and performed by world-renowned super star artist Luis Fonsi, adds a layer of emotive depth. Fonsi, the artist behind Despacito, the most streamed song in history, lends his vocal prowess to the film, resonating with audiences globally.
The film also stars Jason Patic, Paulina Gaitan, Diego Calvo (pre Babylon) and is produced by
Matthew Diezel, Jon Graham, Rufus Parker, Mohit Ramchandani, Sean Wolfington.
Lopez’ career is on the rise. Since filming City of Dreams, he has already done four other movies in Mexico and is currently in pre-production for his next film.
Here is our Hollywood Talks with Ari Lopez interview.
