The East Los High TV show has been cancelled after four seasons by Hulu. Although there will be no fifth season, the East Los High official Twitter page has confirmed it will return for a special finale event episode, so there should be some closure for fans. Check out the tweet, below. A teen drama series, East Los High stars Vannessa Vasquez, Danielle Vega, Alexandra Rodriguez, Gabriel Chavarria, Carlito Olivero, Jd Pardo, Cinthya Carmona, Ade Chike Torbet, and Byron Martinez. The cast formerly featured Janine Larina, Vivian Lamolli, Ray Diaz, Rick Mancia, Gillbert Saldivar, and Oskar Rodrigues. East Los High is the first Hulu series with an all-Latino cast. Read More…...
- 5/19/2017
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Valentines Day! If you are a fan of Nicholas Sparks' godawful movies , chances are you are loving today! You probably think sitting in a champagne shaped glass jacuzzi in the Poconos is romantic (It is anything but). There are people (usually men) who avoid it like the bubonic plague. Anything to get out of buying horrible chocolates last minute or scrambling to make a reservation. The teddy bear with the heart you got her from Rite Aid will let most women know that you truly don't know a thing about her, so the evening will be ruined anyway. And then there are hopeless romantics who live for this hallmark holiday (usually women). You can't wait to have your co-workers ask you what sad sack thing your lover did for you. Being that LatinoBuzz is for lovers we rounded up some of our fave Latino actors to share which characters they are akin to and their most epic wins and fails!
If I could choose any character in any movie that reflects my dating life, as cheesy as this sounds, it would have to be Drew Barrymore from the movie "Going The Distance". Her character and I are a couple of crazy hopeless romantics. I was in a long distance relationship with my boyfriend for a year up until last month, it was sooo hard at times but worth the wait. He finally took the plunge and moved to Los Angeles! A new beginning :). Soooo a few years back I had a huge crush on this one guy, and we went out one night to a karaoke bar with his friends. I wanted to stand out to him so I decided (after a couple of shots of whiskey lol) to jump on stage and sing my heart out! I sang "Girl Put Your Records On" by Corinne Bailey Rae. I actually sounded pretty damn good! I surprised myself and definitely impressed the guy I liked. I'd say I won that night :) Andrea Sixtos (East Los High)
When I was a little girl I was so shameless and passionate that I didn't care what other people thought of me. I was in love with this guy "Jose" and I used to chase him in kindergarden. I would always tell him that I loved him and that he was supposed to be with me, and even share my lunch with him... I remember that our conversations were always the same... I would say "Jose, who is the prettiest girl in the world?" (hoping that he would say: You!) and he always answered "My sister!" (he had a 6 month new sister). The best part was that I didn't care! I knew that he would realized that it was me. Well... years after I ran in to him as I was going to my ballet classes... he was short, fat and bald.
But the most Epic fail was years later when I was a teenager (not as shameless as I used to be), I had a boyfriend and wanted to tell him that I love him, so I composed a song... and thought for a week if I should sing it for him. I decided to do it... as he heard it, he blushed, told me - thank you - and we never talked about it again... I guess he didn´t like it... But, despite that we were together for 2 more years, happy ending! Francisca Walker (El Verano De Los Peces Voladores)
Although it was originally a musical, I would say that I am a less narcissistic version of Maureen from Rent. We're similar in the way that we are both open spirits, artists, we're strong, passionate, monogamists (considered by some to be serial-daters)... really when it gets down to it we want to be in love, but we won't sacrifice who we are... in other words "take me baby, or leave me." ;) Noemi Gonzalez (Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones)
In the Notebook. Too many men, which to choose, love or stability lol. Most Epic fail was trying to give an ex Mexican candies to win him back, his niece got to them before he even saw it. Should have left a card... Gina Rodriguez (Sleeping With The Fishes)
Well, the night I kissed my current girlfriend for the first time, I apparently farted. I was holding her hand and walking her back to her car. I had a couple drinks that night and don't remember this, but she swears by it! It must've worked because we've been together for nearly 4 years! I think that should be the test: fart around the person. Depending on how they react, one could decide whether she is a keeper or not. She didn't mind it too much, so I guess she was a keeper, and vice versa! She just also happens to be the most loving and accepting person I've ever met, so... :) Jorge Diaz (33)
I think my dating life is like Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and The City. She casually dates but when she's in a relationship, she's In a relationship. Plus she ends up with Mr.Big! Who wouldn't want to end up with their one true love!?!?! Chelsea Rendon (McFarland)
My Junior year in High School our English Literature teacher had us move desks around every couple of months to mix things up. From the classic row and column formation, to a giant inward facing circle and back again. We would physically get up and push our desks, which blanketed the room in cacophony for about 5 minutes. I had a crush on a boy in class and though I'm not sure where I got the gall, I slammed my hands down on his desk and shoved it up against him so he was pinned in his seat. The look on his face was priceless and in that moment I, too, was a little shocked (and stoked) by my prowess. Though I didn't say a word to him that day, he ended up being my first boyfriend. I have some epic fails too but we can save those for another day. Alexandra Metz (Once Upon A Time)
I would have to say the character that most represents my dating life is Jane from 27 Dresses. I've witnessed so many of my family members and friends tie the knot in just the last few years. If I had a dime for every one I might be able to buy a coffee. Regular of course, nothing fancy. Seriously though, I love the meaning of marriage and weddings. I think everything about them is so beautiful. I'm a sucker for romance and a great love story. As for myself, I don't really date. I'm always helping and taking care of other people that I tend to forget about myself. Similar to Jane, who puts everyone else first and thinks she has no time for herself. Janine Larina (East Los High)
Oh, son. Let me tell ya, I have a very Very epic fail to share. I was at a house party in college, wearing heels, and dressed to impress a certain cutie that lived at the house we were at. It was my first time ever meeting him, and as I sashayed down the stairs my heel got caught in a tear in the carpet and I went flying down the stairs Face First! I landed flat on my face at the bottom of the stairs and the entire party took a collective Gasp. Once I realized that I hadn't actually died from the fall (or the embarrassment), I remarkably got back on my feet with some help from nearby strangers, brushed myself off, and continued to laugh and dance like nothing had happened. When the sobering light of the next day came however, I was so embarrassed that I did everything I could to avoid my crush for the rest of the year until he graduated. Come to find out, Years later when we reconnected, that he was actually pretty impressed with how easily I laughed off the epic fall down the stairs, thought I was a cool chick, but didn't know my name or how to find me. Lesson learned: Best way to recover from an Epic Fail is to laugh it off!! And don't waste your energy being embarrassed by it - because you never know how other people perceived it. An epic fail could always turn into an epic Win when you least expect it. ;-) Marisa Quinn (The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2)
This one qualifies as the best fail - win ever so I have to tell. It was my birthday and he set up the most amazing night. Dressed up, special pick up, flowers, gifts, private room at the restaurant the whole deal! After the most amazing meal I still have ever had in my life, he has cupcakes with candles come out and he sings happy birthday. It was the one most romantic night I've ever had. I blow off the candles and he insists I have a bite. I dragged my finger through the icing and tried to put it on his nose being all cute and romantic like I see in those romantic wedding movies. But I was a little tipsy from the bottle of Moet we had just had and stuck the icing straight into his eye. It was so much of it he couldn't even open it! My God did that go wrong. I was so worried iI blinded him and not sure what reaction to expect. But he just laughed so hard that it made me laugh. Soon we were both on the floor out of breath trying to un-stick his eye. It was the best moment of the night. Even as we remember the story now we still giggle like little children. I never looked at a cupcake the same way again. Luciana Faulhaber (The Night Crew)
About two years ago when I first moved to Los Angeles I starter to dance with fire. So one night, after spending a beautiful day with this very special person, I invited my super talented fire dancers friends to come to my house and we performed for him. It was the best performance I've ever done and he was pleasantly surprised. Paola Baldion (Sin OtoÑO Sin Primavera)
I had a crush on a sports trainer in college and thinking I was pretty athletic myself, I thought I could impress him with my prowess. So I decided to join his 5:30 Am bootcamp. Basically, everything was going according to plan, Until one day I had the bright idea to go one morning when I was clearly still feeling a bit funny from the night/earlier that morning... and he made a work out circuit, called the "gut check," let's just say, I checked it...and threw up, A Lot... and never went back. Lindsey Morgan (The Hundred)
I was on a date with a girl when I was 13 during Halloween and went to a maze, I'm petrified of scary clowns and sure enough the end of the maze it was clowns, luckily she was scared also so we ran out with eachother. She dropped her phone while running and asked if I could go get it and she asked if I was scared, trying to be cool I said no. So walking back in, one of the clowns was holding the phone and I was holding my breath, and as soon as I grabbed it the clown screams on the top of his lungs and I peed myself. She wouldn't stop laughing at me. Andrew Jacobs (Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones)
Vicky Cristina Barcelona. 'Cause we all been in there and it's weird at times when they just broke up with their exes. There is that tension and if its too recent its worse. Fernanda Romero (Ghost Team One)...
If I could choose any character in any movie that reflects my dating life, as cheesy as this sounds, it would have to be Drew Barrymore from the movie "Going The Distance". Her character and I are a couple of crazy hopeless romantics. I was in a long distance relationship with my boyfriend for a year up until last month, it was sooo hard at times but worth the wait. He finally took the plunge and moved to Los Angeles! A new beginning :). Soooo a few years back I had a huge crush on this one guy, and we went out one night to a karaoke bar with his friends. I wanted to stand out to him so I decided (after a couple of shots of whiskey lol) to jump on stage and sing my heart out! I sang "Girl Put Your Records On" by Corinne Bailey Rae. I actually sounded pretty damn good! I surprised myself and definitely impressed the guy I liked. I'd say I won that night :) Andrea Sixtos (East Los High)
When I was a little girl I was so shameless and passionate that I didn't care what other people thought of me. I was in love with this guy "Jose" and I used to chase him in kindergarden. I would always tell him that I loved him and that he was supposed to be with me, and even share my lunch with him... I remember that our conversations were always the same... I would say "Jose, who is the prettiest girl in the world?" (hoping that he would say: You!) and he always answered "My sister!" (he had a 6 month new sister). The best part was that I didn't care! I knew that he would realized that it was me. Well... years after I ran in to him as I was going to my ballet classes... he was short, fat and bald.
But the most Epic fail was years later when I was a teenager (not as shameless as I used to be), I had a boyfriend and wanted to tell him that I love him, so I composed a song... and thought for a week if I should sing it for him. I decided to do it... as he heard it, he blushed, told me - thank you - and we never talked about it again... I guess he didn´t like it... But, despite that we were together for 2 more years, happy ending! Francisca Walker (El Verano De Los Peces Voladores)
Although it was originally a musical, I would say that I am a less narcissistic version of Maureen from Rent. We're similar in the way that we are both open spirits, artists, we're strong, passionate, monogamists (considered by some to be serial-daters)... really when it gets down to it we want to be in love, but we won't sacrifice who we are... in other words "take me baby, or leave me." ;) Noemi Gonzalez (Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones)
In the Notebook. Too many men, which to choose, love or stability lol. Most Epic fail was trying to give an ex Mexican candies to win him back, his niece got to them before he even saw it. Should have left a card... Gina Rodriguez (Sleeping With The Fishes)
Well, the night I kissed my current girlfriend for the first time, I apparently farted. I was holding her hand and walking her back to her car. I had a couple drinks that night and don't remember this, but she swears by it! It must've worked because we've been together for nearly 4 years! I think that should be the test: fart around the person. Depending on how they react, one could decide whether she is a keeper or not. She didn't mind it too much, so I guess she was a keeper, and vice versa! She just also happens to be the most loving and accepting person I've ever met, so... :) Jorge Diaz (33)
I think my dating life is like Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and The City. She casually dates but when she's in a relationship, she's In a relationship. Plus she ends up with Mr.Big! Who wouldn't want to end up with their one true love!?!?! Chelsea Rendon (McFarland)
My Junior year in High School our English Literature teacher had us move desks around every couple of months to mix things up. From the classic row and column formation, to a giant inward facing circle and back again. We would physically get up and push our desks, which blanketed the room in cacophony for about 5 minutes. I had a crush on a boy in class and though I'm not sure where I got the gall, I slammed my hands down on his desk and shoved it up against him so he was pinned in his seat. The look on his face was priceless and in that moment I, too, was a little shocked (and stoked) by my prowess. Though I didn't say a word to him that day, he ended up being my first boyfriend. I have some epic fails too but we can save those for another day. Alexandra Metz (Once Upon A Time)
I would have to say the character that most represents my dating life is Jane from 27 Dresses. I've witnessed so many of my family members and friends tie the knot in just the last few years. If I had a dime for every one I might be able to buy a coffee. Regular of course, nothing fancy. Seriously though, I love the meaning of marriage and weddings. I think everything about them is so beautiful. I'm a sucker for romance and a great love story. As for myself, I don't really date. I'm always helping and taking care of other people that I tend to forget about myself. Similar to Jane, who puts everyone else first and thinks she has no time for herself. Janine Larina (East Los High)
Oh, son. Let me tell ya, I have a very Very epic fail to share. I was at a house party in college, wearing heels, and dressed to impress a certain cutie that lived at the house we were at. It was my first time ever meeting him, and as I sashayed down the stairs my heel got caught in a tear in the carpet and I went flying down the stairs Face First! I landed flat on my face at the bottom of the stairs and the entire party took a collective Gasp. Once I realized that I hadn't actually died from the fall (or the embarrassment), I remarkably got back on my feet with some help from nearby strangers, brushed myself off, and continued to laugh and dance like nothing had happened. When the sobering light of the next day came however, I was so embarrassed that I did everything I could to avoid my crush for the rest of the year until he graduated. Come to find out, Years later when we reconnected, that he was actually pretty impressed with how easily I laughed off the epic fall down the stairs, thought I was a cool chick, but didn't know my name or how to find me. Lesson learned: Best way to recover from an Epic Fail is to laugh it off!! And don't waste your energy being embarrassed by it - because you never know how other people perceived it. An epic fail could always turn into an epic Win when you least expect it. ;-) Marisa Quinn (The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2)
This one qualifies as the best fail - win ever so I have to tell. It was my birthday and he set up the most amazing night. Dressed up, special pick up, flowers, gifts, private room at the restaurant the whole deal! After the most amazing meal I still have ever had in my life, he has cupcakes with candles come out and he sings happy birthday. It was the one most romantic night I've ever had. I blow off the candles and he insists I have a bite. I dragged my finger through the icing and tried to put it on his nose being all cute and romantic like I see in those romantic wedding movies. But I was a little tipsy from the bottle of Moet we had just had and stuck the icing straight into his eye. It was so much of it he couldn't even open it! My God did that go wrong. I was so worried iI blinded him and not sure what reaction to expect. But he just laughed so hard that it made me laugh. Soon we were both on the floor out of breath trying to un-stick his eye. It was the best moment of the night. Even as we remember the story now we still giggle like little children. I never looked at a cupcake the same way again. Luciana Faulhaber (The Night Crew)
About two years ago when I first moved to Los Angeles I starter to dance with fire. So one night, after spending a beautiful day with this very special person, I invited my super talented fire dancers friends to come to my house and we performed for him. It was the best performance I've ever done and he was pleasantly surprised. Paola Baldion (Sin OtoÑO Sin Primavera)
I had a crush on a sports trainer in college and thinking I was pretty athletic myself, I thought I could impress him with my prowess. So I decided to join his 5:30 Am bootcamp. Basically, everything was going according to plan, Until one day I had the bright idea to go one morning when I was clearly still feeling a bit funny from the night/earlier that morning... and he made a work out circuit, called the "gut check," let's just say, I checked it...and threw up, A Lot... and never went back. Lindsey Morgan (The Hundred)
I was on a date with a girl when I was 13 during Halloween and went to a maze, I'm petrified of scary clowns and sure enough the end of the maze it was clowns, luckily she was scared also so we ran out with eachother. She dropped her phone while running and asked if I could go get it and she asked if I was scared, trying to be cool I said no. So walking back in, one of the clowns was holding the phone and I was holding my breath, and as soon as I grabbed it the clown screams on the top of his lungs and I peed myself. She wouldn't stop laughing at me. Andrew Jacobs (Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones)
Vicky Cristina Barcelona. 'Cause we all been in there and it's weird at times when they just broke up with their exes. There is that tension and if its too recent its worse. Fernanda Romero (Ghost Team One)...
- 2/14/2014
- by Juan Caceres
- Sydney's Buzz
Last week, 'East Los High' (Elh), a project we've been tracking since last year announced that they had signed a deal to exclusively premiere the show on Hulu.com, making it the first English language show with an all Latino cast on the site. In a reality where the market has become saturated with projects that lack originality and heart, writer/director Carlos Portugal set out to create a show that realistically reflected the lives of teenagers from East L.A. that was to be told from an American Latino perspective. Portugal and his team of writers engaged organizations such as Advocates for Youth, Voto Latino and the California Family Health Council in developing this 26 episode series. Now that it's ready to premiere on June 3rd, with new episodes dropping weeknights, LatinoBuzz caught up with Carlos and actors Alicia Sixtos, Janine Larina and Jorge Diaz and invited them to share their experiences in the making of Elh.
LatinoBuzz: How did you develop these characters and story lines?
Carlos Portugal: The number one rule that I give starting writers is: "Write about what you know." I certainly took this to heart when creating Elh. Personally, I love writing women characters. Especially Latinas. Every major character (Maya, Jessie, Vanessa, Ceci, Soli, Reina, Paulina, Lupe) is either loosely based or a composite of girlfriends and/or relatives. As far as the male characters, I based Hernan (the "veterano" who owns the local taqueria) on my father: A respectful, kind-hearted man that nobody messes with.
LatinoBuzz: Tell me about your decision to use the backdrop of East La as one of the characters.
Carlos Portugal: You have no idea (or maybe you do) of how so many people, including highly educated Angelenos, are scared of traveling to East La. I even had a few crew members drop out when they found out that the show was shooting in East La. There is this preconceived notion that East La is a dangerous area populated by taggers and gang members. Of course, this is as far from the truth as you can get! It's one of the warmest places full of good restaurants and hard-working families. I try to shatter the stereotypes of Ela that people are used to seeing in movies and TV. (I made a decision early on that there would be no gang members in the show). My hope is that people from East La get to see themselves in the show portrayed as diverse human beings and not the typical Latino stereotypes we see in TV and films.
LatinoBuzz: How important was having an all Latino cast and also primarily a Latino crew?
Carlos Portugal: I don't think I would have been able to shoot this show in such a record time (67 production days) if it hadn't been for the hard work and dedication of the Latino cast and crew. We shattered the "Latinos are always late" myth once and for all. During the 67 days of shooting not one of the eighty plus actors was ever late to work! I'm truly humbled by their love, passion and dedication to this project. As far as inspiring young Latino filmmakers, seeing a show like this will hopefully excite them so that they would want to create/write/produce/direct and edit their own take on their communities
LatinoBuzz: How did you get all these organizations involved in the development of the series?
Carlos Portugal: We had a product that spoke to all of them. They saw that our hearts were in the right place. Every single person who helped us out was amazing.
Trailer: http://www.hulu.com/watch/483909
LatinoBuzz: The show centers around your character Jessie and Maya, your cousin -What is the dynamic between your characters?
Janine Larina: The dynamic between Maya and Jessie is definitely a roller coaster. A love triangle between two cousins doesn't make for anything less. It changes throughout the season as things happen and certain events come to light. They are both strong Latina young women finding themselves and going through high school. Yes, I used Latina, women and high school in one sentence. So you know there will definitely be some drama.
LatinoBuzz: What do you want people to take away from your character?
Janine Larina: This one is tough because I feel like there is so much that can be learned from Jessie and her journey. I hope that people can relate to her in some way or another and take from her a sense of encouragement to always do what is right regardless of the consequences that may come with it. To be true to who you are and stand up for your beliefs whether they are what is popular or not. Be yourself and the right people will always be there.
LatinoBuzz: It's pretty ground breaking, what do you hope the series achieves?
Janine Larina: I believe this series can achieve a lot in terms of bringing situations to light that aren't so often talked about in certain communities. Sex, drugs and relationships to name a few. Yet, in such an entertaining way. I can only hope that viewers learn from the experiences that the students of East Los High go through and are better equipped with the information they need to perhaps not follow some of the mistakes when put in similar situations.
LatinoBuzz: Tell us a little bit about your character, Jorge.
Jorge Diaz: I play "Paulie", the best friend, the goof ball, the horn-ball....he's a lot more 'talk' than he is 'walk' though. There is, however, a sincerity behind all of his jokes, inappropriate comments, and constant tail-chasing because he truly does care about his best friend Jacob, and his lady friend Soli. There's a good heart behind there somewhere. He was Alot of fun to play to say the least, and I hope that shows on screen.
LatinoBuzz: Do you feel the characters in Elh are a refreshing break from some of the stereotypes that are often perpetrated in film and television when these characters are in fact fully realized teenagers dealing with teenage problems?
Jorge Diaz: Besides adding to the authenticity of an actual East Los Angeles high school, having East Los High consist of an entire Latino cast gives a group of Latinos a chance to tell their stories! It's a chance to show that stories of young people from East La are just as important, interesting and relatable as those from teens in Beverly Hills, Orange County, or any other American story for that matter; because that's exactly what they are: American stories. I was actually surprised to find out that a show like this had never done before, considering Latinos make up about 35 percent of the population. We've somehow subconsciously been taught through television that young, rich Caucasian kids represent what it means to be a teenager in the United States. Being an adolescent is a Human experience and anyone can relate to it, you just might see a few more brown faces in this particular one :)
LatinoBuzz:As an actor how was being part of an ensemble?
Jorge Diaz: Being a part of an ensemble with such a loving group of actors is something I'll never forget. I personally connected to this project because I have always wanted to be a teacher at heart and this project allowed us the unique opportunity to combine our love for the craft of acting and be able to bring up certain issues in a fun, non-preachy way. No kid ever wants to be preached to, or Any person for that matter, but if we are somehow able to see ourselves in another person and be able to fully relate to him/her in a certain circumstance, that right there is what allows a space to grow and be entertained all at the same time. I dig that.
LatinoBuzz: What attracted you to the character of Maya?
Alicia Sixtos: Maya's a really strong girl. A thinker. Listens more than she speaks and cries more than she'd like. People say I'm a bit like her. I think we attracted each other.
LatinoBuzz: How important do you think a project like this is to a community like East Los Angeles?
Alicia Sixtos: I think that if it gets out to cities like East La, the Sf Bay Area (where I'm from), Texas, New Mexico, New York, Central and South America, it could be really different and useful. The underlying story is how to deal with a lot of the issues that teens and young adults find themselves face to face with but the issue is that a lot of adults don't talk about these major issues with teen because its uncomfortable and made taboo.
LatinoBuzz: When you read the whole series did you get a sense that this could be something different?
Alicia Sixtos: Not initially. When I read the series all I could think was; “did I really just read 540 script pages in one sitting?” I have a lot of trouble reading a lot of these 95 page scripts. Point is the story is really compelling. Thinking on it after the fact, I see the potential it has in being very influential for a lot of people. I can't think of a show like this one with its picture and story quality and featuring so many Latino actors. Latinos in America in particular have telenovelas and Disney shows. That's what kids and parents watch now a days, apart or together. Elh could possibly be the bridge in the gap for a lot of families and young people who don't have a path to follow. I'm hoping that it will be. The only way to really make that happen is by word of mouth. So anyone who's reading this make sure you check out East Los High on Hulu.com on June 3rd and check us on Facebook and Twitter: @eastloshighshow. Thank you for the support Juan, Latinobuzz & IndieWire.
Written by Juan Caceres and Vanessa Erazo, LatinoBuzz is a weekly feature on SydneysBuzz that highlights Latino indie talent and upcoming trends in Latino film with the specific objective of presenting a broad range of Latino voices. Follow @LatinoBuzz on Twitter and Facebook.
LatinoBuzz: How did you develop these characters and story lines?
Carlos Portugal: The number one rule that I give starting writers is: "Write about what you know." I certainly took this to heart when creating Elh. Personally, I love writing women characters. Especially Latinas. Every major character (Maya, Jessie, Vanessa, Ceci, Soli, Reina, Paulina, Lupe) is either loosely based or a composite of girlfriends and/or relatives. As far as the male characters, I based Hernan (the "veterano" who owns the local taqueria) on my father: A respectful, kind-hearted man that nobody messes with.
LatinoBuzz: Tell me about your decision to use the backdrop of East La as one of the characters.
Carlos Portugal: You have no idea (or maybe you do) of how so many people, including highly educated Angelenos, are scared of traveling to East La. I even had a few crew members drop out when they found out that the show was shooting in East La. There is this preconceived notion that East La is a dangerous area populated by taggers and gang members. Of course, this is as far from the truth as you can get! It's one of the warmest places full of good restaurants and hard-working families. I try to shatter the stereotypes of Ela that people are used to seeing in movies and TV. (I made a decision early on that there would be no gang members in the show). My hope is that people from East La get to see themselves in the show portrayed as diverse human beings and not the typical Latino stereotypes we see in TV and films.
LatinoBuzz: How important was having an all Latino cast and also primarily a Latino crew?
Carlos Portugal: I don't think I would have been able to shoot this show in such a record time (67 production days) if it hadn't been for the hard work and dedication of the Latino cast and crew. We shattered the "Latinos are always late" myth once and for all. During the 67 days of shooting not one of the eighty plus actors was ever late to work! I'm truly humbled by their love, passion and dedication to this project. As far as inspiring young Latino filmmakers, seeing a show like this will hopefully excite them so that they would want to create/write/produce/direct and edit their own take on their communities
LatinoBuzz: How did you get all these organizations involved in the development of the series?
Carlos Portugal: We had a product that spoke to all of them. They saw that our hearts were in the right place. Every single person who helped us out was amazing.
Trailer: http://www.hulu.com/watch/483909
LatinoBuzz: The show centers around your character Jessie and Maya, your cousin -What is the dynamic between your characters?
Janine Larina: The dynamic between Maya and Jessie is definitely a roller coaster. A love triangle between two cousins doesn't make for anything less. It changes throughout the season as things happen and certain events come to light. They are both strong Latina young women finding themselves and going through high school. Yes, I used Latina, women and high school in one sentence. So you know there will definitely be some drama.
LatinoBuzz: What do you want people to take away from your character?
Janine Larina: This one is tough because I feel like there is so much that can be learned from Jessie and her journey. I hope that people can relate to her in some way or another and take from her a sense of encouragement to always do what is right regardless of the consequences that may come with it. To be true to who you are and stand up for your beliefs whether they are what is popular or not. Be yourself and the right people will always be there.
LatinoBuzz: It's pretty ground breaking, what do you hope the series achieves?
Janine Larina: I believe this series can achieve a lot in terms of bringing situations to light that aren't so often talked about in certain communities. Sex, drugs and relationships to name a few. Yet, in such an entertaining way. I can only hope that viewers learn from the experiences that the students of East Los High go through and are better equipped with the information they need to perhaps not follow some of the mistakes when put in similar situations.
LatinoBuzz: Tell us a little bit about your character, Jorge.
Jorge Diaz: I play "Paulie", the best friend, the goof ball, the horn-ball....he's a lot more 'talk' than he is 'walk' though. There is, however, a sincerity behind all of his jokes, inappropriate comments, and constant tail-chasing because he truly does care about his best friend Jacob, and his lady friend Soli. There's a good heart behind there somewhere. He was Alot of fun to play to say the least, and I hope that shows on screen.
LatinoBuzz: Do you feel the characters in Elh are a refreshing break from some of the stereotypes that are often perpetrated in film and television when these characters are in fact fully realized teenagers dealing with teenage problems?
Jorge Diaz: Besides adding to the authenticity of an actual East Los Angeles high school, having East Los High consist of an entire Latino cast gives a group of Latinos a chance to tell their stories! It's a chance to show that stories of young people from East La are just as important, interesting and relatable as those from teens in Beverly Hills, Orange County, or any other American story for that matter; because that's exactly what they are: American stories. I was actually surprised to find out that a show like this had never done before, considering Latinos make up about 35 percent of the population. We've somehow subconsciously been taught through television that young, rich Caucasian kids represent what it means to be a teenager in the United States. Being an adolescent is a Human experience and anyone can relate to it, you just might see a few more brown faces in this particular one :)
LatinoBuzz:As an actor how was being part of an ensemble?
Jorge Diaz: Being a part of an ensemble with such a loving group of actors is something I'll never forget. I personally connected to this project because I have always wanted to be a teacher at heart and this project allowed us the unique opportunity to combine our love for the craft of acting and be able to bring up certain issues in a fun, non-preachy way. No kid ever wants to be preached to, or Any person for that matter, but if we are somehow able to see ourselves in another person and be able to fully relate to him/her in a certain circumstance, that right there is what allows a space to grow and be entertained all at the same time. I dig that.
LatinoBuzz: What attracted you to the character of Maya?
Alicia Sixtos: Maya's a really strong girl. A thinker. Listens more than she speaks and cries more than she'd like. People say I'm a bit like her. I think we attracted each other.
LatinoBuzz: How important do you think a project like this is to a community like East Los Angeles?
Alicia Sixtos: I think that if it gets out to cities like East La, the Sf Bay Area (where I'm from), Texas, New Mexico, New York, Central and South America, it could be really different and useful. The underlying story is how to deal with a lot of the issues that teens and young adults find themselves face to face with but the issue is that a lot of adults don't talk about these major issues with teen because its uncomfortable and made taboo.
LatinoBuzz: When you read the whole series did you get a sense that this could be something different?
Alicia Sixtos: Not initially. When I read the series all I could think was; “did I really just read 540 script pages in one sitting?” I have a lot of trouble reading a lot of these 95 page scripts. Point is the story is really compelling. Thinking on it after the fact, I see the potential it has in being very influential for a lot of people. I can't think of a show like this one with its picture and story quality and featuring so many Latino actors. Latinos in America in particular have telenovelas and Disney shows. That's what kids and parents watch now a days, apart or together. Elh could possibly be the bridge in the gap for a lot of families and young people who don't have a path to follow. I'm hoping that it will be. The only way to really make that happen is by word of mouth. So anyone who's reading this make sure you check out East Los High on Hulu.com on June 3rd and check us on Facebook and Twitter: @eastloshighshow. Thank you for the support Juan, Latinobuzz & IndieWire.
Written by Juan Caceres and Vanessa Erazo, LatinoBuzz is a weekly feature on SydneysBuzz that highlights Latino indie talent and upcoming trends in Latino film with the specific objective of presenting a broad range of Latino voices. Follow @LatinoBuzz on Twitter and Facebook.
- 5/7/2013
- by Juan Caceres
- Sydney's Buzz
Valentine's Day is here! For some, it's a day full of joy and hubris, where cherubs are your local baristas complete with handle-bar mustaches. It's a day you ride unicorns to work and nothing will get in the way of you delivering those flowers you fought for like “This is Sparta”. This day your wildest dreams will be exceeded and you may even get a marriage proposal! Nothing can top this feeling of euphoria – not even Luther Vandross singing 'Always and Forever’ to a bunch of dolphins can top that sh*t... And then there's those for whom the day is abhorrent and full of rue. It's like a herpes breakout - an embarrassing reminder that somewhere you went wrong (like the time you proposed on Valentines Day). A catalog of memories of past failed romances, all accumulating in one day. You wish you had been 'catfished', so you would have never met them at all... Anyways, LatinoBuzz got to chop it up with young Latino Hollywood about their most romantic films, their cine-crush and in the spirit of los haters de San Valentin: their worst date!
“I think I'll have to say Natalie Portman in 'Garden State'. 'Love her in that. Maybe minus the helmet and epilepsy but I think I'd be able to deal with it. Something about a beautiful woman that can make me laugh. My favorite romantic film has to be Charlie Chaplin's 'City Lights' - Beautiful! One of my favorite movies ever, and not a word is spoken. I remember seeing it at the age of 16 for the first time and it made my heart explode. And 'Pretty in Pink' always makes me feel like I'm 'Duckie' at heart” - Jorge Diaz, 'Love, Concord', 'Filly Brown'
“My worst Valentine's date was when my ex-boyfriend spent the day with his best friend instead of me because his best friend's birthday is on Valentine's Day. He tried to make up for this by scheduling our date for February 13th instead of the 14th. He had a nice dinner date and a movie planned but his best friend (the birthday boy) and his other friends crashed our entire date and took over. Dinner was awkward and the birthday boy joined us after and even chose the movie. The worst was what happened during the movie, I decided to lay my head on his shoulder and because I was wearing a hat he couldn't see my eyes and he thought that I had fallen asleep. His phone received a text message from a girl that read "Happy Valentines baby! Miss you and care about you. You're very special, I hope your girl knows what she got". And that's when I found out he had been cheating on me!!!” - Francia Raisa, 'Chastity Bites'.
“Favorite Romantic Film: 'The Umbrellas of Cherbourg' is probably the most romantic story I have ever seen. This film moves me in a way no other film has. No matter how many times I see it I always cry and that to me is wonderful. It is a story of impossible love accompanied by the most beautiful music and color. Although the main characters do not end up together, the film shows their early stages of love and courtship so beautifully. One can be so lucky to experience such hope and blissfulness, even for just a moment. It is anything but predictable just the way life and love really is” - Diane Guerrero, 'Emoticon'
“Lou Diamond Philips as Richie Valens in 'La Bamba'. I dreamt of him serenading me to "Oh Donna" when I was younger. I still swoon at the thought of it. Lou is so young, handsome, and hopeful and "Richie Valens" is such a tragic hero. To have a man write and sing you songs, I mean come on, it doesn't get anymore dreamy than that. I married a poet and he writes me poems, I guess I made my dream come true!” -Julia Grob, 'East WillyB'
“I was once set up on the worst blind date ever. It was like eating dinner with Dr. Jekyll and Mrs Hyde. One minute she was trying to wine and dine me and the next she was throwing every insult you can imagine my way. It was very confusing” - Roberto Aguirre, 'Struck By Lightning'
“My crush would be Salma Hayek... Come on now, do I really need to say any more? She's perfection” - Joseph Julian Soria, 'Army Wives', 'Mission Park'
“My favorite romantic movie is 'True Romance'. Always. A reckless love story. When two unlikely lovers cross paths and fall madly in love in record time and he fights to the death for her freedom from her pimp so they can run away together with millions of dollars worth of drug money!? Oh! My heart melts” - Alicia Sixtos, 'East Los High'
“My perfect cine girlfriend would have to be Kate Winslet! She is not only stunning, but also ridiculously talented and the British accent doesn't hurt either. She had me at Titanic! And 'King Kong' is the most romantic film of all time! There is nothing more touching that the love of a giant gorilla and Jessica Lange. Lol! Seriously, 'Out of Africa' is my favorite romantic film. How can you beat Robert Redford and Meryl Streep, and the music by Stephan Grimes really punctuates a beautiful true story” - Jeremy Ray Valdez, 'Mission Park', 'H.O.M.E'
“Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Just a great film! We all wish we could forget that someone who may have caused us pain. It's a bitter sweet movie and bitter sweet is what love is all about”- Rayniel Rufino, 'Trouble in the Heights'
“Lisa Bonet circa late 80's early 90's, hands down! I think she's just gorgeous. Everything about her screams Take Me On A Date Ej! I have an agreement with my girlfriend. I'm allowed to cheat on her with early 90s Bonet” - E.J . Bonilla, 'Four', 'The House That Jack Built'
“My favorite film is 'Big Fish' by Tim Burton and although it's not a traditional romantic film, it definitely showcases “Love” the way I like to think it truly is. That movie inspires me every time I watch it. Ewan McGregor is the perfect leading man in this film and it makes me believe in love at first sight. My worst date ever would have to include too much Pda. There is nothing more unattractive than two people in public doing what should be done in private. I also would be tortured if I went on a date with someone who smells bad and talked only about themselves haha!” - Denise Bidot, 'Curvy Girls', 'Habla'
“Matt Bomer!!! Oh wait, I'm barking up the wrong tree aren't I? But goodness, look at that face! My fave romantic film is definitely Dirty Dancing. It's actually my favorite movie, period. I don't care if I sound cheesy or corny, I've loved that movie ever since I can remember. Yes, I watched it as a kid and my mom would make me close my eyes during certain parts. It's nice to be able to watch the full movie now, even though I still feel like someone's telling me "cover your eyes" sometimes haha.” - Janine Larina, 'East Los High'
“I can say, best boyfriend from any era of film would have to be the dude from the movie 'The Princess Bride'! What's that dudes name? Oh, he was so delicious and heroic! Chivalry at its best! I don't admire men often but when I do it's the dude from 'The Princess Bride'. Omg Worst Date Ever was with this dude about 2 years ago! I want to say his name only for the small, minute, almost impossible possibility that he would read this because he should know how awful it was! But alas I won't! He took me to this bar, Village Idiot, for dinner and if tossing his car keys to the valet while he walked in the joint (keys that were definitely not caught by valet) wasn't obnoxious enough, he then told the hostess "best table, they know me here" except No they didn't! We proceed to sit down and he goes on this rant about how much money he has, who he knows and why he is the ultimate La bachelor! As I sit there stirring in my contempt for this over the top ridiculous man, he stops and says "Well it's not ladylike to look so ugly, smile at least!" I wanted to stab him with my fork! I respond "Well I usually smile when I'm happy, entertained, excited and I'm none of those right now. I would like to leave...now" and with that I dropped cash on the table and walked right out. Worst date ever! Gina Rodriguez, 'Filly Brown', 'Sleeping with the Fishes'
“It'd have to be January Jones and of course, in the Mad Men era. What is that, the 60's right? I love the show but also hate it because Don Driver gets to come home to her. There's something about how patient and loving she is. Such a soothing voice. I'd let her talk my ear off”- Walter Perez, 'Mission Park'
“My favorite romantic film would definitely be 'Amelie', because it's about a young girl on a journey fueled by love, the love of helping others selflessly and in the midst of it all, she falls in love with a quirky guy who collects photo booth pictures. It's a sweet little unique story, not to mention it was such a musical inspiration for me, I can play majority of the songs from it on the piano - Just so lovely!!! I'd highly suggest adding it to your movie list”– Andrea Sixtos, 'Sunset Stories'
“The Wedding Planner, because they were going down different paths but still ended up together. For awhile after I watched the movie I would only eat the brown M&Ms haha! And worst date, one Valentines Day I was supposed go out with my boyfriend, he picked me up and when we got in the car we had a huge fight and broke up. So the date just made it to the drive way” - Chelsea Rendon, 'A Better Life', 'Kill Kapone'
“Andy Garcia in 'When a man loves a woman' and the worst date ever was the time when this guy took me out and tried to get me drunk so he could hit it. He left me stranded on 6th Street in Austin Texas” - Corina Calderon, 'All She Can', 'End of Watch'
“I had two horrible dates with the same person. The first date we went to a karaoke bar and he got sexually molested by his ex-girlfriend. He told me about it and he felt really uncomfortable. He wanted to leave and I wanted to confront her. So we stayed and I took her outside and she and I exchanged words. We agreed to be civil, but I missed my turn and never got to sing. The second horrible date happened a couple months into our relationship. We went to 'Lucky Strike' for a birthday party and ran into another ex-girlfriend who swore they were meant to be together and that he shouldn't be bringing me into her work. Long story short, I laughed and asked her to get me a coke. I never got the coke. After all that drama, we are still together and It only took him a over 1000 good dates to make up for those two” - Veronica Diaz-Carranza, 'Blaze You Out', 'Taco Shop'
Written by Juan Caceres and Vanessa Erazo, LatinoBuzz is a weekly feature on SydneysBuzz that highlights Latino indie talent and upcoming trends in Latino film with the specific objective of presenting a broad range of Latino voices. Follow @LatinoBuzz on twitter and www.facebook.com/latinobuzz...
“I think I'll have to say Natalie Portman in 'Garden State'. 'Love her in that. Maybe minus the helmet and epilepsy but I think I'd be able to deal with it. Something about a beautiful woman that can make me laugh. My favorite romantic film has to be Charlie Chaplin's 'City Lights' - Beautiful! One of my favorite movies ever, and not a word is spoken. I remember seeing it at the age of 16 for the first time and it made my heart explode. And 'Pretty in Pink' always makes me feel like I'm 'Duckie' at heart” - Jorge Diaz, 'Love, Concord', 'Filly Brown'
“My worst Valentine's date was when my ex-boyfriend spent the day with his best friend instead of me because his best friend's birthday is on Valentine's Day. He tried to make up for this by scheduling our date for February 13th instead of the 14th. He had a nice dinner date and a movie planned but his best friend (the birthday boy) and his other friends crashed our entire date and took over. Dinner was awkward and the birthday boy joined us after and even chose the movie. The worst was what happened during the movie, I decided to lay my head on his shoulder and because I was wearing a hat he couldn't see my eyes and he thought that I had fallen asleep. His phone received a text message from a girl that read "Happy Valentines baby! Miss you and care about you. You're very special, I hope your girl knows what she got". And that's when I found out he had been cheating on me!!!” - Francia Raisa, 'Chastity Bites'.
“Favorite Romantic Film: 'The Umbrellas of Cherbourg' is probably the most romantic story I have ever seen. This film moves me in a way no other film has. No matter how many times I see it I always cry and that to me is wonderful. It is a story of impossible love accompanied by the most beautiful music and color. Although the main characters do not end up together, the film shows their early stages of love and courtship so beautifully. One can be so lucky to experience such hope and blissfulness, even for just a moment. It is anything but predictable just the way life and love really is” - Diane Guerrero, 'Emoticon'
“Lou Diamond Philips as Richie Valens in 'La Bamba'. I dreamt of him serenading me to "Oh Donna" when I was younger. I still swoon at the thought of it. Lou is so young, handsome, and hopeful and "Richie Valens" is such a tragic hero. To have a man write and sing you songs, I mean come on, it doesn't get anymore dreamy than that. I married a poet and he writes me poems, I guess I made my dream come true!” -Julia Grob, 'East WillyB'
“I was once set up on the worst blind date ever. It was like eating dinner with Dr. Jekyll and Mrs Hyde. One minute she was trying to wine and dine me and the next she was throwing every insult you can imagine my way. It was very confusing” - Roberto Aguirre, 'Struck By Lightning'
“My crush would be Salma Hayek... Come on now, do I really need to say any more? She's perfection” - Joseph Julian Soria, 'Army Wives', 'Mission Park'
“My favorite romantic movie is 'True Romance'. Always. A reckless love story. When two unlikely lovers cross paths and fall madly in love in record time and he fights to the death for her freedom from her pimp so they can run away together with millions of dollars worth of drug money!? Oh! My heart melts” - Alicia Sixtos, 'East Los High'
“My perfect cine girlfriend would have to be Kate Winslet! She is not only stunning, but also ridiculously talented and the British accent doesn't hurt either. She had me at Titanic! And 'King Kong' is the most romantic film of all time! There is nothing more touching that the love of a giant gorilla and Jessica Lange. Lol! Seriously, 'Out of Africa' is my favorite romantic film. How can you beat Robert Redford and Meryl Streep, and the music by Stephan Grimes really punctuates a beautiful true story” - Jeremy Ray Valdez, 'Mission Park', 'H.O.M.E'
“Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Just a great film! We all wish we could forget that someone who may have caused us pain. It's a bitter sweet movie and bitter sweet is what love is all about”- Rayniel Rufino, 'Trouble in the Heights'
“Lisa Bonet circa late 80's early 90's, hands down! I think she's just gorgeous. Everything about her screams Take Me On A Date Ej! I have an agreement with my girlfriend. I'm allowed to cheat on her with early 90s Bonet” - E.J . Bonilla, 'Four', 'The House That Jack Built'
“My favorite film is 'Big Fish' by Tim Burton and although it's not a traditional romantic film, it definitely showcases “Love” the way I like to think it truly is. That movie inspires me every time I watch it. Ewan McGregor is the perfect leading man in this film and it makes me believe in love at first sight. My worst date ever would have to include too much Pda. There is nothing more unattractive than two people in public doing what should be done in private. I also would be tortured if I went on a date with someone who smells bad and talked only about themselves haha!” - Denise Bidot, 'Curvy Girls', 'Habla'
“Matt Bomer!!! Oh wait, I'm barking up the wrong tree aren't I? But goodness, look at that face! My fave romantic film is definitely Dirty Dancing. It's actually my favorite movie, period. I don't care if I sound cheesy or corny, I've loved that movie ever since I can remember. Yes, I watched it as a kid and my mom would make me close my eyes during certain parts. It's nice to be able to watch the full movie now, even though I still feel like someone's telling me "cover your eyes" sometimes haha.” - Janine Larina, 'East Los High'
“I can say, best boyfriend from any era of film would have to be the dude from the movie 'The Princess Bride'! What's that dudes name? Oh, he was so delicious and heroic! Chivalry at its best! I don't admire men often but when I do it's the dude from 'The Princess Bride'. Omg Worst Date Ever was with this dude about 2 years ago! I want to say his name only for the small, minute, almost impossible possibility that he would read this because he should know how awful it was! But alas I won't! He took me to this bar, Village Idiot, for dinner and if tossing his car keys to the valet while he walked in the joint (keys that were definitely not caught by valet) wasn't obnoxious enough, he then told the hostess "best table, they know me here" except No they didn't! We proceed to sit down and he goes on this rant about how much money he has, who he knows and why he is the ultimate La bachelor! As I sit there stirring in my contempt for this over the top ridiculous man, he stops and says "Well it's not ladylike to look so ugly, smile at least!" I wanted to stab him with my fork! I respond "Well I usually smile when I'm happy, entertained, excited and I'm none of those right now. I would like to leave...now" and with that I dropped cash on the table and walked right out. Worst date ever! Gina Rodriguez, 'Filly Brown', 'Sleeping with the Fishes'
“It'd have to be January Jones and of course, in the Mad Men era. What is that, the 60's right? I love the show but also hate it because Don Driver gets to come home to her. There's something about how patient and loving she is. Such a soothing voice. I'd let her talk my ear off”- Walter Perez, 'Mission Park'
“My favorite romantic film would definitely be 'Amelie', because it's about a young girl on a journey fueled by love, the love of helping others selflessly and in the midst of it all, she falls in love with a quirky guy who collects photo booth pictures. It's a sweet little unique story, not to mention it was such a musical inspiration for me, I can play majority of the songs from it on the piano - Just so lovely!!! I'd highly suggest adding it to your movie list”– Andrea Sixtos, 'Sunset Stories'
“The Wedding Planner, because they were going down different paths but still ended up together. For awhile after I watched the movie I would only eat the brown M&Ms haha! And worst date, one Valentines Day I was supposed go out with my boyfriend, he picked me up and when we got in the car we had a huge fight and broke up. So the date just made it to the drive way” - Chelsea Rendon, 'A Better Life', 'Kill Kapone'
“Andy Garcia in 'When a man loves a woman' and the worst date ever was the time when this guy took me out and tried to get me drunk so he could hit it. He left me stranded on 6th Street in Austin Texas” - Corina Calderon, 'All She Can', 'End of Watch'
“I had two horrible dates with the same person. The first date we went to a karaoke bar and he got sexually molested by his ex-girlfriend. He told me about it and he felt really uncomfortable. He wanted to leave and I wanted to confront her. So we stayed and I took her outside and she and I exchanged words. We agreed to be civil, but I missed my turn and never got to sing. The second horrible date happened a couple months into our relationship. We went to 'Lucky Strike' for a birthday party and ran into another ex-girlfriend who swore they were meant to be together and that he shouldn't be bringing me into her work. Long story short, I laughed and asked her to get me a coke. I never got the coke. After all that drama, we are still together and It only took him a over 1000 good dates to make up for those two” - Veronica Diaz-Carranza, 'Blaze You Out', 'Taco Shop'
Written by Juan Caceres and Vanessa Erazo, LatinoBuzz is a weekly feature on SydneysBuzz that highlights Latino indie talent and upcoming trends in Latino film with the specific objective of presenting a broad range of Latino voices. Follow @LatinoBuzz on twitter and www.facebook.com/latinobuzz...
- 2/13/2013
- by Juan Caceres
- Sydney's Buzz
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