This here is my first and ever real-deal short-film (slash) pilot web-series (slash) unfinished project. Kind of. It was fully produced by my college but funded and written by me. It’s a tough job playing a big role like writer, producer, director, and sound designer. But it can be done. It challenged me soooooo much, I feel satisfied and not at the same time though. I’m my worst critic. But I know, I know. It’s the beginnings — I know. My storytelling need lots of work. We’re getting there!
Nati & Rigo is a romantic comedy with some latin spice. An illegal immigrant couple can’t afford to make ends meat and let alone have a $5,000 wedding. But they want is so bad that they become criminals to make their dream come true. In this Pilot, my intention was to introduce the characters and their problem. Throw in some conflict and leave the audience with a cliff hanger to stay tuned for episode two. But that never happened, unfortunately. For one, the main character who plays Rigo, Gerardo Samuel Alvarado ( A.k.a Sammy) passed away in a tragic accident.
Sammy was my best friend and very much like a brother to me, so I dedicate every line in my script and frame in my movie to him. He placed so much energy to this character that I really didn’t and refused to replace him with another person. Forever he will know to my film school teachers, classmates, and family as Rigo. With all that said and not get in to so much details — I decided to just let it go and move to other creations.
Hopefully in the next post, I can discuss how Nati & Rigo challenged me as filmmaker and perhaps throw some pointers on those interested in creating something similar.
In the mean time, lets be intentional and aggressive in to making more and more films!
Me With Sammy (Rigo), Diana Lopez (Nati), & Ibzan Lagos (Sound guy).
Just a cool shot of the shot list
My Ugly Looking Slate
Getting to shoot the day-laborers scene
Raul (D.P) collaborating with me. He knows better.
Raul Rodriguez (D.P) discussing something with me. I don’t remember what!
Behind the camera again and again.
