The first scene to Jenni Rivera’s new movie “Filly Brown” has been released.
The movie, starring Rivera, Gina Rodriguez and Edward James Olmos, tells the story of Maria Jose 'Majo' Tonorio, a tough LA street poet who spits from the heart. After meeting a talented DJ she cuts her first demo under the guidance of a small time hustler more interested in promoting Majo's sexuality than her lyrics. Soon a major label and its strong-arm executive come calling. Convinced that a record deal will deliver, Majo is suddenly faced with some stark choices.
Rivera made her film debut as Maria Tonorio in which she played Majo’s mother and an inmate. She garnered acclaim for her performance with Olmos stating that he wanted her to receive an Oscar nomination.
The film premiered at the Sundance Film festival where it received mixed reviews. The Hollywood Reporter stated “Gina Rodriguez's magnetic star turn keeps this often overwrought film engaging, even when the script lets her down.”
However Variety was critical of it and stated, “A trite piece of storytelling, with character development and plot points that feel not so much lived in as borrowed from other movies.”
The movie was directed by Youssef Delara (Bedrooms) and Michael D. Olmos (Splinter).
Edward James Olmos is an Academy Award nominee best known for his work on “Miami Vice” and “Blade Runner.” He will next be seen in “Go for Sisters” and “2 Guns.” Rodriguez was last seen in “The Bold and Beautiful” and will next be seen in “Snap and “Sleeping with the Fishes.”
“Filly Brown” will be distributed by Indomina Media on April 26th.