Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Friday, October 18, 2013
Meet Celebrity & Actor Noel Gugliemi at his film screening of 'Hope Cafe' Oct. 24th at 8pm in Garden Grove, CA
Los Angeles - Meet Celebrity and Actor Noel Gugliemi at the screening of his film ‘Hope Cafe’ at the opening night of Indie Fest on October 24th at 8pm in Garden Grove, California.
This night is dedicated to outstanding Latin performers, and will honor celebrated actor Noel Gugliemi.
Noel Gugliemi has been featured in over 110 films and television series. He has appeared in feature films including: The Fast and Furious, The Animal, Training Day (Denzel Washington, Ethan Hawke), National Security (Martin Lawrence), Malibu’s Most Wanted, Old School (Will Ferrell, Vince Vaughn), S.W.A.T. (Samuel Jackson, Collin Ferrell), Bruce Almighty (Jim Carrey), Crank (Jason Statham), School for Scoundrels (Billy Bob Thornton, Jon Heder), Employee of the Month (Matt Dillon, Steve Zahn), The Virgin of Juarez (Minnie Driver), Harsh Times (Christian Bale, Freddy Rodriguez), Snoop Dogg‘s Hood of Horrors, Street Kings (Keanu Reaves, Forest Whitaker), as well as The Bucket List (Morgan Freeman, Jack Nicholson).
F. Valentino Morales plays 'Marco' in Hope Cafe.
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| NOEL GUGLIEMI in 'HOPE CAFE' Noel can also be seen in Jamie Foxx‘s The Soloist and alongside Harvey Keitel and Cuba Gooding Jr. in the movie Wrong Turn at Tahoe. His highest grossing film was The Dark Knight Rises. Noel has also appeared on several television shows including The Walking Dead and has had recurring roles on Resurrection Blvd. and The Handler. Guest Starring spots include performances on Without A Trace, 24, CSI Miami Las Vegas, NYPD Blue, Monk and Mind of Mencia. . You can also hear Noel on the animated series The Cleveland Show. Noel Gugliemi plays the lead role as ‘Hector’ in Hope Cafe. |
F. Valentino Morales plays the role of ‘Marco’ in Hope Cafe and is Vin Diesel’s production partner at One Race Films, is the star of Vin Diesel’s series ‘The Ropes’ and is a producing partner on “Fast & Furious 7”.
Indie Filmmaker Radhaa Nilia, Owner of Radhaa Nilia Productions
“I couldn’t be more pleased to accept the honor of presenting my film on the opening night of Indie Fest USA IFF which will celebrate the wide community of Latin creative’s, artists and filmmakers in such a wonderful way.” said Radhaa Nilia, Owner and Founder of Radhaa Nilia Productions. “Our film will be the second film of the night right after the opening ceremonies and for that we’re also much honored.”
Along with the presentation of the film attendees will have a chance to meet, get autographs, and photos with Noel Gugliemi, F. Valentino Morales, and Radhaa Nilia after the screening.
To purchase tickets for ‘Hope Cafe’ click on: www.indiefestusa.com
Festival Contact: Ray Gibb: info@indiefestusa.com
Monday, September 30, 2013
Radhaa Nilia Productions Presents "Hope Cafe" On October 11th at The Golden Door International Film Festival of New Jersey.
JERSEY CITY, NEW JERSEY- Actress, Producer, Director and Indie Filmmaker, Radhaa Nilia, has been accepted to present her film 'Hope Cafe' at The Golden Door International Film Festival of New Jersey, on October 11th at 5:30 PM. The film stars actors Noel Gugliemi, Radhaa Nilia, and F. Valentino Morales.
"I'm honored to be invited to show my latest film at the Golden Door Festival, and especially to be considered for the Women In Film-Alice Guy Blache Award. Alice Guy Blache was not only considered the first female narrative director, but also thought to be one of the first fiction directors of either gender", says Ms. Nilia, Owner and Founder of Radhaa Nilia Productions, who will be at the festival to meet and greet attendees.
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Wednesday, September 25, 2013
An exclusive interview with director and producer Radhaa Nilia, about her new film Hope Cafe.
Interview by Model on a Mission.
How did you get started as a filmmaker?
Radhaa is a multi media artist with a background in Indie film making and producing. Radhaa is also an Actress, Model and an Energy Healer. Radhaa enjoys spending time with her two dogs while being creative in the Appalachian mountains of North Carolina, when she is not traveling to New York and Los Angeles for work. Radhaa has a deep love for animals and regularly rescues local dogs that are dumped in the forest, offering food, shelter and energy work for them. Radhaa leads a vegetarian lifestyle and practices yoga and meditation. Radhaa continues to write and create films that move, touch and inspire through her production company Radhaa Nilia Productions.www.radhaaniliaproductions.com
What is your new film, Hope Cafe, about, and what inspired you to make the film?
We started to create an outline for the film and a story of someone that seemed all too familiar kept coming up. I started to realize that this film is based on a real life story and was being manifested through the writing. One main character stood out, and her name was Jade. There was something about her: she was a young woman with many disappointments in her life and though she felt like giving up, she kept searching for that something that would keep her alive.
Jade is someone who had lost everything, including her faith, but still has that glimmer of hope inside her that keeps her going There was something therapeutic about bringing this character back to life. I found a sense of healing and completion in this process. The need to tell this woman’s story was the driving force behind this film. She and her daughter have passed away in real life, but in the film I could create an ending that makes me happy. If you really want to know the story, then watch the film. That's as much as I can tell you!
What is your new film, Hope Cafe, about, and what inspired you to make the film?
We started to create an outline for the film and a story of someone that seemed all too familiar kept coming up. I started to realize that this film is based on a real life story and was being manifested through the writing. One main character stood out, and her name was Jade. There was something about her: she was a young woman with many disappointments in her life and though she felt like giving up, she kept searching for that something that would keep her alive.
Jade is someone who had lost everything, including her faith, but still has that glimmer of hope inside her that keeps her going There was something therapeutic about bringing this character back to life. I found a sense of healing and completion in this process. The need to tell this woman’s story was the driving force behind this film. She and her daughter have passed away in real life, but in the film I could create an ending that makes me happy. If you really want to know the story, then watch the film. That's as much as I can tell you!
I’ve always had an interest in film making -- acting, producing, and directing, too. I’m a multimedia artist by nature and it's my hearts passion to create. I attended Southern Oregon University Producers Program and because of my desire to learn more, I found an internship at a production company at Sunset Gower studios. It was really cool going to the studio every day with my official pass, feeling like I am a part of a production company.
I started out as a secretary and worked my way up to becoming a producer. There was nothing glamorous about it, though. I pretty much started doing everything under the umbrella of producing and I did it mostly as a solo, female, aspiring producer. I had to learn a lot of tough lessons! I got to do it all, from casting, catering, wardrobe styling, acted as a makeup artist and therapist on set; I had to learn to pull all the loose ends together with no additional budget at all and not much time to make it happen. It felt like wild makeshift producing, creating something out of thin air. I ended up completing four films that all got picked up for distribution. That was the reward.
I started to feel it was time to break free and create something on my own. My friend Vin Diesel was a really big inspiration for me at the time, and he encouraged me to work hard and get as much experience as I could. I wanted to challenge myself and see if I could actually make a film on my own-- even though I had no budget or backing when I started; I just had a dream, courage and endless drive to make it happen.
I started out as a secretary and worked my way up to becoming a producer. There was nothing glamorous about it, though. I pretty much started doing everything under the umbrella of producing and I did it mostly as a solo, female, aspiring producer. I had to learn a lot of tough lessons! I got to do it all, from casting, catering, wardrobe styling, acted as a makeup artist and therapist on set; I had to learn to pull all the loose ends together with no additional budget at all and not much time to make it happen. It felt like wild makeshift producing, creating something out of thin air. I ended up completing four films that all got picked up for distribution. That was the reward.
I started to feel it was time to break free and create something on my own. My friend Vin Diesel was a really big inspiration for me at the time, and he encouraged me to work hard and get as much experience as I could. I wanted to challenge myself and see if I could actually make a film on my own-- even though I had no budget or backing when I started; I just had a dream, courage and endless drive to make it happen.
How was Diversity an important part of your film?
We live in a very diverse world and that diversity is growing more every day. Growing up, I never saw multi-ethnic role models in Hollywood whom I could identify with. That was a really big challenge for me growing up, and made me with feel really left out. I want to celebrate diversity. It's a beautiful thing to work with people of different backgrounds and ethnicities and that is something to be really proud of.
You have an impressive cast for a first time filmmaker, how did this happen?
I have to say, it was amazing to have this caliber of talents and I would be happy to give you a rundown of our main actors.Noel G, who plays Hector:Noel G is such a talented actor and I really respect his work ethic. He has one hundred and eleven films and tv shows combined under his belt as of now including classics like Training Day, Fast & Furious, The Walking Dead, The Dark knight Rises, and I am just so proud to have him as our main lead. Noel is a full-time working actor and he gave his precious time and energy even though he was in the midst of multiple projects when I approached him. Noel made time to fly out to Ashland, Oregon for the scenes. I can't say enough good things about Noel. He is a great actor and so easy to work with. He may act like a gangster in films but he is such a professional in real life. He also keeps the fun flowing and really made me laugh so much. I am really, really thankful I got to work with him.
We live in a very diverse world and that diversity is growing more every day. Growing up, I never saw multi-ethnic role models in Hollywood whom I could identify with. That was a really big challenge for me growing up, and made me with feel really left out. I want to celebrate diversity. It's a beautiful thing to work with people of different backgrounds and ethnicities and that is something to be really proud of.
You have an impressive cast for a first time filmmaker, how did this happen?
I have to say, it was amazing to have this caliber of talents and I would be happy to give you a rundown of our main actors.Noel G, who plays Hector:Noel G is such a talented actor and I really respect his work ethic. He has one hundred and eleven films and tv shows combined under his belt as of now including classics like Training Day, Fast & Furious, The Walking Dead, The Dark knight Rises, and I am just so proud to have him as our main lead. Noel is a full-time working actor and he gave his precious time and energy even though he was in the midst of multiple projects when I approached him. Noel made time to fly out to Ashland, Oregon for the scenes. I can't say enough good things about Noel. He is a great actor and so easy to work with. He may act like a gangster in films but he is such a professional in real life. He also keeps the fun flowing and really made me laugh so much. I am really, really thankful I got to work with him.
Joseph Midgett, who plays Ray & the Homeless man: Joseph Midyett who at the time was working at the Shakespeare Festival Theatre in Ashland Oregon. Playing two roles is not easy and he did above and beyond in both his roles in Hope Cafe. He even brought his own beard and props, to play the homeless man, alongside Noel Gugliemi. That is one of my favorite scenes! In a turn of a hat, Joseph Midgett also plays the boss at the cafe and played the role of a creepy and sinister man. You can’t recognize him at all,his whole energy, body language and facial expressions have shifted. Any Director would want him on their set because he makes it easy for other actors and is so emotionally intelligent with his combined instincts and intuition he uses them all in his work. Joseph Midgett is one of the finest actors I have the pleasure of working with. His work makes me cry because It’s just so good, and at the same time I celebrate what a true artist can really do. I know he has a big future and I look forward to working with him again. http://josephmidyett.com
Marco played by F. Valentino Morales of Fast & The Furious:I had known F. Valentino Morales for many years, through my friendship with Vin Diesel. He is a one-of-a-kind, genuine person. Valentino looks so big and strong and maybe even intimidating, but he is such a kindred soul, a very talented and a unique actor. We had been asking him for a very long time if he could play this role that we had wrote for him, but he had been so busy on location with Vin Diesel that we were not sure if he would be able to do it. But he kept his word and really came through for us. Before he became famous, Valentino had been through the process of making his own indie film with Vin, so he knows what it's like to be an indie filmmaker. He still had the passion and the heart for it, which a lot of people lose when they get to that level of success. I couldn't feel more blessed because he is so perfect for the role of Marco in Hope Cafe and I am so glad that he loves Hope Cafe as well. It was a big pat on the back from someone of his caliber. Be on the lookout for F. Valentino Morales as he is set to Produce Fast & Furious 7!
Hayden played by Ayvee Baby: Supporting actress Ayvee Baby, is a beautiful woman with multi talents. She did a wonderful job playing the sassy Hayden.She helped me put together musical talents for Hope Cafe. She can sing, rap and dance, it was fun!We had some wild road trips together as we drove all the way to Oregon from LA and back a few times to shoot some scenes. We both laughed and definitely cried a few times throughout the making. I think it’s safe to say we both learned a lot in the process and it is an experience we will always remember and can laugh about too. Besides acting, Ayvee is also a Curvy Model. You can find out more about her at: www.ayvee.me
Award winning actor Raymond Bagatsing, who plays Pastor Miles:Raymond Bagatsing is a celebrated actor in the Philippines and Asia. He is the equivalent of Brad Pitt in the Philippines Entertainment Industry. His ability and range of creativity as an actor is mind blowing! Raymond has received Asia’s best Actor award. I had the great opportunity to also work with him in other projects while he was in the USA. It is such an honor to work with someone as brilliant as he is. He can literally play any role and we are so proud to have him in Hope Cafe. He is now back in the Philippines on one of the hottest hit series I can't get over how blessed we have been to have him play such an important role as Pastor Miles. It was not a role that anyone could just play. Raymond Bagatsing had the right spirit to play the role, as he is a very spiritual person, and that really comes through. He is a true inspiration with his craft. It's something to aspire to and I hope I get the opportunity to work with him again.
Award winning actor Raymond Bagatsing, who plays Pastor Miles:Raymond Bagatsing is a celebrated actor in the Philippines and Asia. He is the equivalent of Brad Pitt in the Philippines Entertainment Industry. His ability and range of creativity as an actor is mind blowing! Raymond has received Asia’s best Actor award. I had the great opportunity to also work with him in other projects while he was in the USA. It is such an honor to work with someone as brilliant as he is. He can literally play any role and we are so proud to have him in Hope Cafe. He is now back in the Philippines on one of the hottest hit series I can't get over how blessed we have been to have him play such an important role as Pastor Miles. It was not a role that anyone could just play. Raymond Bagatsing had the right spirit to play the role, as he is a very spiritual person, and that really comes through. He is a true inspiration with his craft. It's something to aspire to and I hope I get the opportunity to work with him again.
Diego played by Multi-platinum producer Cool from Cool & Dre: Cool is a multi-platinum music producer, but he is just really down-to-earth and is very supportive of Hope Cafe. He took a chance on us and did his first cameo role.He was a good sport, and a fine actor. Though he is one of the Industries top music producers in working with Lil Wayne, Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake and Queen Latifah to name a few, he was once an indie artist just like us. Cool worked really hard to get to the top of the industry starting from his garage, so he respects hard work ethic. He said one thing that I always remember: "It doesn’t matter where you start as long as you keep going and never give up cause some way, somehow you’re gonna get there." That is why he gave us a chance and came out to show his love and support for our project.I’m so grateful and happy that he could grace us with his presence at Hope Cafe.
Beatrice who played by Mindy Tiry: Beatrice was a very special character that we created played by Mindy Tiry. She is a wise, loving, and non-judgemental character. It was hard to cast someone who embodied all these qualities, but Mindy Tiry brought her to life. I actually met Mindy in a memoir writing class many years ago in Oregon, and she happens to be one of the most interesting people I have ever met. I couldn’t help but think of her when we were doing casting. This was her first acting role, but she is such a natural actress and it was so easy and comfortable to work with her.
Rapper Phil The Agony who plays Noel’s brother:Phil The Agony is a music artist, rapper and he is a great actor too. He is a big name in the underground hip hop world. He was also behind-the-scenes in creating parts of the music for Hope Cafe. He has a natural charm on screen and has an authenticity that shines through. One of my favorite scenes of his is with Pastor Miles (Raymond Bagatsing) was heartfelt. For being a hardcore rapper, he shows his vulnerability as he ask Pastor Miles to pray for him and his brother. It’s a real moment that touches the heart, and a reminder that no matter how tough or indifferent we may act on the outside, at the end of the day we all need love and compassion.
Larissa, played by myself, Radhaa Nilia: I auditioned many Actresses to play this role but my vision of her did not match what I had in mind, so I ended up having to play her last minute. It was so fun acting Larissa! She is a feisty Latina and the complete opposite of Jade. She is not afraid to fight back and say what’s on her mind. Many people have told me that Larissa stole their heart and the show and wished that she had more screen time. You never know, she may reappear again!
Beatrice who played by Mindy Tiry: Beatrice was a very special character that we created played by Mindy Tiry. She is a wise, loving, and non-judgemental character. It was hard to cast someone who embodied all these qualities, but Mindy Tiry brought her to life. I actually met Mindy in a memoir writing class many years ago in Oregon, and she happens to be one of the most interesting people I have ever met. I couldn’t help but think of her when we were doing casting. This was her first acting role, but she is such a natural actress and it was so easy and comfortable to work with her.
Rapper Phil The Agony who plays Noel’s brother:Phil The Agony is a music artist, rapper and he is a great actor too. He is a big name in the underground hip hop world. He was also behind-the-scenes in creating parts of the music for Hope Cafe. He has a natural charm on screen and has an authenticity that shines through. One of my favorite scenes of his is with Pastor Miles (Raymond Bagatsing) was heartfelt. For being a hardcore rapper, he shows his vulnerability as he ask Pastor Miles to pray for him and his brother. It’s a real moment that touches the heart, and a reminder that no matter how tough or indifferent we may act on the outside, at the end of the day we all need love and compassion.
Larissa, played by myself, Radhaa Nilia: I auditioned many Actresses to play this role but my vision of her did not match what I had in mind, so I ended up having to play her last minute. It was so fun acting Larissa! She is a feisty Latina and the complete opposite of Jade. She is not afraid to fight back and say what’s on her mind. Many people have told me that Larissa stole their heart and the show and wished that she had more screen time. You never know, she may reappear again!
Additional Credit: I want to tell you, it takes a lot of people to put a film project together on any level, and of course I want to give gratitude and a shout out to every single person that has given their support in the making of Hope Cafe. It’s been a long journey, and you know who you are, many Thanks to You!
I see you are also a model, and also do energy work how do you balance that?
Modeling is something that is lighthearted and fun for me in contrast to the hard and sometimes gut wrenching work of Indie Filmmaking. When I get to model, I don’t have to think much and I just get to dress up and play. I enjoy modeling, it is so nice for me to go on set and have my makeup done by a professional makeup artist, designer jewelry and clothes perfectly ready to go. I walk in and catering and hot coffee greets me in the morning. To have everything set up professionally for me makes the shoot a real treat, and I never ever take that for granted. www.radhaanilia.com
Doing healing energy work is a whole other level. It gives me a constant perspective, and very rewarding. It’s one of the best gifts in my life, and keeps me balanced and sane. There is that part of me that is very nurturing and caring, and I get to express and share that in a healing session with someone who is also ready to receive that kind of energy. There is a time and place for everything. I love this work which adds depth and meaning in my life.www.goldengoddesshealing.com
I don’t mind having a life of contrast because I know as I continue to make more films it will get easier and I know more support will be available to help make this process flow with more grace and ease. I really put everything on the line to achieve my goals. I’m not frivolous, I really just reinvest my resources right back into my projects with Radhaa Nilia Productions. It’s my baby and I look forward to the future when I can make a profit, but for now I continue to put my time, energy and money where my heart is, in Filmmaking.
With the internet allowing you to sell copies of your film, are you centering your publicity efforts on getting the film screened at festivals, or reaching individuals who might buy a DVD copy of your film--or both of these?
We are doing both. We are so honored that Hope Cafe was officially selected at a few Film Festivals, such as the Golden Door International Film Festival Oct 10-13th 2013, in New Jersey. Tickets at: http://goldendoorfilmfestival.org
Hope Cafe has also been invited to Indie Fest and has the honors of being the first film for the opening night in honor of Latin & Multi Ethnic Filmmakers October 24th-27th in Garden Grove California. Tickets at: http://www.indiefestusa.com We would love it if you would join us, but you don’tt have to wait to see Hope Cafe! Buy your copy @
www.radhaaniliaproductions.com
Thank You so much Nora for taking the time for interviewing me and Thank You to the readers for taking the time and interest to read this interview. I honor you and welcome you on my journey and as an Indie Female Filmmaker! Blessings, Radhaa Nilia
I see you are also a model, and also do energy work how do you balance that?
Modeling is something that is lighthearted and fun for me in contrast to the hard and sometimes gut wrenching work of Indie Filmmaking. When I get to model, I don’t have to think much and I just get to dress up and play. I enjoy modeling, it is so nice for me to go on set and have my makeup done by a professional makeup artist, designer jewelry and clothes perfectly ready to go. I walk in and catering and hot coffee greets me in the morning. To have everything set up professionally for me makes the shoot a real treat, and I never ever take that for granted. www.radhaanilia.com
Doing healing energy work is a whole other level. It gives me a constant perspective, and very rewarding. It’s one of the best gifts in my life, and keeps me balanced and sane. There is that part of me that is very nurturing and caring, and I get to express and share that in a healing session with someone who is also ready to receive that kind of energy. There is a time and place for everything. I love this work which adds depth and meaning in my life.www.goldengoddesshealing.com
I don’t mind having a life of contrast because I know as I continue to make more films it will get easier and I know more support will be available to help make this process flow with more grace and ease. I really put everything on the line to achieve my goals. I’m not frivolous, I really just reinvest my resources right back into my projects with Radhaa Nilia Productions. It’s my baby and I look forward to the future when I can make a profit, but for now I continue to put my time, energy and money where my heart is, in Filmmaking.
With the internet allowing you to sell copies of your film, are you centering your publicity efforts on getting the film screened at festivals, or reaching individuals who might buy a DVD copy of your film--or both of these?
We are doing both. We are so honored that Hope Cafe was officially selected at a few Film Festivals, such as the Golden Door International Film Festival Oct 10-13th 2013, in New Jersey. Tickets at: http://goldendoorfilmfestival.org
Hope Cafe has also been invited to Indie Fest and has the honors of being the first film for the opening night in honor of Latin & Multi Ethnic Filmmakers October 24th-27th in Garden Grove California. Tickets at: http://www.indiefestusa.com We would love it if you would join us, but you don’tt have to wait to see Hope Cafe! Buy your copy @
www.radhaaniliaproductions.com
Thank You so much Nora for taking the time for interviewing me and Thank You to the readers for taking the time and interest to read this interview. I honor you and welcome you on my journey and as an Indie Female Filmmaker! Blessings, Radhaa Nilia
Radhaa Nilia Productions Presents "Hope Cafe" On October 24th At Indie Fest In Garden Grove
Radhaa Nilia Productions Presents "Hope Cafe" On October 24th At Indie Fest In Garden Grove
(PRBuzz.com) 2013 -- New York, New York - Actress, Writer, Producer, Director and Filmmaker Radhaa Nilia has been honored to present her film "Hope Cafe The Movie" at the opening night of Indie Fest on October 24th through the 27th in Garden Grove, California. The night dedicated to outstanding Latin performers will also honor celebrated actors F. Valentino Morales and Noel Gugliemi and Radhaa Nilia. F. Valentino Morales is Vin Diesel's production partner at One Race Films, and is set to produce "Fast & Furious 7". Noel Gugliemi has been in over 111 films and television shows including the popular show "Walking Dead".
"I couldn't be more pleased to accept the honor of presenting my film on the opening night of Indie Fest which will celebrate the wide community of Latin creatives, artists and filmmakers in such a wonderful way." said Radhaa Nilia, Owner and Founder of Radhaa Nilia Productions. "Our film will be the first film of the night and for that we're also very honored." Along with the presentation of the film attendees will have a chance to meet Radhaa Nilia along with Noel Gugliemi, F. Valentino Morales and Actress Mindy Tiry. For more information visit www.radhaaniliaproductions.com . To purchase tickets for the event visit http://www.indiefestusa.com Event ADDRESS 12926 Main Street Garden Grove, CA 92840 Festival telephone: 1-714-251-6296 Festival email: info@indiefestusa.com CONTACT: Radhaa Nilia info@radhaaniliaproductions.com |
Saturday, May 18, 2013
Hope Cafe The Movie review on Watch 24
From time to time, everybody could use some hope. Would you like to see a
movie that will touch your spirit and remind you why life is all about
being in it together? That’s what a movie I just watched called Hope
Café is all about. Check it out on IMDB: http://www.imdb.com/title/
Radhaa Nilia is the director and producer of this marvelous movie. No matter where you come from, this movie is about universal values, the matters of soul and heart. Although Hope Cafe has a faith based theme, the movie’s message is spiritual and non-judgmental.
The story follows two characters, Jade and Hector. Jade, played by Radhaa Nilia, is a young mother struggling to survive in this tough world, and to create a new life for her daughter and herself after leaving an abusive relationship. Hector, played by Noel Gugliemi, (Bruce Almighty, Training Day, Fast and Furious) is a street hustler from L.A. looking for a way to avoid living a life full of crime and violence. These two deeply wounded souls are challenged by their past, but together they work hard to find greater meaning in life.
There are many interesting characters that make Hope Café such a wonderful movie, including F. Valentino (the Ropes), one of Vin Diesel’s compadre, who plays Marco, a charming yet dangerous LA gangster. Another character I really enjoyed was Pastor Miles, played by Asian International Award winning actor Raymond Bagatsing. He brings depth of feeling to his character and a sense of calm after the storm. There is also Beatrice, played by Mindy Tiry, a grounding force in Jades life. Her wisdom and love helps Jade change and move forward.
This is a well crafted film for first time filmmaker Radhaa Nilia. Everybody makes mistakes, but if the world around us is so unforgiving, shouldn’t we try to do better? Hope Cafe has a wonderful message: it is never too late for love, happiness and joy. But first, we have to take the journey of healing. This universal challenge is what this movie is all about. You can find out more about Hope Cafe at http://hopecafethemovie.com or http://www.
Radhaa Nilia is the director and producer of this marvelous movie. No matter where you come from, this movie is about universal values, the matters of soul and heart. Although Hope Cafe has a faith based theme, the movie’s message is spiritual and non-judgmental.
The story follows two characters, Jade and Hector. Jade, played by Radhaa Nilia, is a young mother struggling to survive in this tough world, and to create a new life for her daughter and herself after leaving an abusive relationship. Hector, played by Noel Gugliemi, (Bruce Almighty, Training Day, Fast and Furious) is a street hustler from L.A. looking for a way to avoid living a life full of crime and violence. These two deeply wounded souls are challenged by their past, but together they work hard to find greater meaning in life.
There are many interesting characters that make Hope Café such a wonderful movie, including F. Valentino (the Ropes), one of Vin Diesel’s compadre, who plays Marco, a charming yet dangerous LA gangster. Another character I really enjoyed was Pastor Miles, played by Asian International Award winning actor Raymond Bagatsing. He brings depth of feeling to his character and a sense of calm after the storm. There is also Beatrice, played by Mindy Tiry, a grounding force in Jades life. Her wisdom and love helps Jade change and move forward.
This is a well crafted film for first time filmmaker Radhaa Nilia. Everybody makes mistakes, but if the world around us is so unforgiving, shouldn’t we try to do better? Hope Cafe has a wonderful message: it is never too late for love, happiness and joy. But first, we have to take the journey of healing. This universal challenge is what this movie is all about. You can find out more about Hope Cafe at http://hopecafethemovie.com or http://www.
http://watch24.net/
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Hope Cafe The Movie Review by Mike Pestano
Hope Cafe The Movie
– A Personal Review
The world we live in today can seem so violent, full of sadness, anger, depression, and greed. We glorify and give more emphasis on anything and everything that is shocking, over the top, disgusting, and negative because of what? Profit? Selling more magazines and newspapers? Higher ratings? Has this world really lost what it means to be kind, loving, generous, and open hearted? The movies, the music, and the speech that is used today seeks to divide, arouse hatred, and glorify so much violence. But what we are really about is not that. We are really a species that is born with Love of infinite capacity.
I’m by no means a movie critic but what I do know is I believe in great stories about being human. Movies for me are a way to soothe my soul, inspire, excite, and open up a creativity in my mind and heart. When I watched movies I would be so enamored, inspired, entertained, and enthralled by movies ranging from Star Wars, Rocky, Grease, Gone With The Wind, Superman, Lawrence of Arabia, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Blade Runner, Forrest Gump, Terminator, Love Story, The Godfather series, Lord of The Rings, and many more. I loved being taken into the world showing on the screen and feel and be a part of it to entertain me and take me away from the daily challenges and grind of life. For me it was all about how a movie would capture my mind and imagination and most of all my heart and soul.
When I look at how movies have evolved from the classics of yesteryear to today’s computer enhanced and digitized sometimes soul-less productions I long for something that would bring back that true human element. Movies that spoke of life’s daily struggles, joy, happiness, sadness, redemption, and most of all love. In the last decade I’ve really learned to appreciate movies that did not need hundreds of millions of dollars to produce. While entertaining to watch, today’s mega-blockbuster movies don’t leave as big an impression to me as before.
I had the opportunity not just to watch a movie that I could relate to about life, love, loss, redemption, faith, hope, sadness, disappointment, and finding peace and forgiveness in one’s heart. Hope Cafe The Movie (www.hopecafethemovie.com) is an independent faith-based film scheduled for release on Amazon in early 2013 and the executive producer, actor, and director of this movie, Radhaa Nilia, brings her complete heart and soul into this. It tells a story that we can all relate to in today’s world. Whether it’s the gang-infested violent streets of Los Angeles or the slums of Manila, Bombay, Mexico City or any big city in the world where majority of the population struggles just to survive in a tough, unforgiving world anyone watching this can relate to its message.
The story revolves around two main characters that are both trying to make it in a world where life seems so unfair and hopeless. Inspired and based on real-life events Radhaa produced, acted, and directed this movie that sends a message without being preachy or gushing with sentimentality and over the top emotions. She plays the role of Jade, a single mom struggling to get back on her feet after an abusive relationship. She leaves that relationship and settles in a small town in Oregon and create a new life for herself. All the while she is also trying to gain custody of her daughter and be reunited with her.
Jade lands a job in a local cafe as a barista and meets Hector portrayed by veteran actor Noel Gugliemi (Fast and Furious, Bruce Almighty, Training Day), a small-time street hustler from Los Angeles who is also trying to get away from a life of violence and crime. Hector charms his way into Jade’s life and brings her a happiness and joy that was missing from her last relationship. His criminal past soon comes back to haunt him and the faith and trust that Jade has given to him is shattered by this. They say that you can take someone from the rough and tumble life of the streets but the street life never leaves you.
Jade finds solace, peace, and comfort in her heart when she finds renewed faith in God and herself and moves on with courage and strength. Hector is challenged by all this and his love for Jade is what compels him to give it a try. The other characters portrayed in this movie are all reflective and can be related to by a lot of people most especially for myself. Having lived in many different cities and traveled through many small towns in Canada and the United States I’ve been blessed to meet many similar people like the ones I’ve seen in this movie.
Award winning Filipino actor Raymond Bagatsing plays a role in this movie as Hector’s Catholic priest. For many of his fans from the Philippines this movie will also touch many, many hearts not just because he is in it but of the movie itself which is about faith, hope, religion, and second chances. Radhaa has created a movie that brings life to characters and life situations we all can relate to and the biggest impression this movie left on me was not just about its message of hope, faith, and second chances. The biggest message and feeling I got from this was that I felt Radhaa’s heart and soul poured all out into this for all to see.
I can imagine how much and what it took to conceptualize this from the concept, to the script, to the casting, the locations, the costumes and wardrobe, the original musical score. the scenery, to the style of the shooting, leaves me deeply appreciative of what an artist does to present a story truly from the heart. Its a movie where the overall theme that hope, faith, and love can help anyone make changes and choices. It shows how one can move forward in life without fear or regret to find happiness and peace. I’ve watched a lot of other movies where the underlying theme was of personal salvation and the promise of salvation. No, what I loved about this movie is that it shows how people can transform given the opportunity to do so. To learn lessons from the mistakes and the challenges that life throws at you.
This is the kind of movie that will touch not just your heart but also bring to one’s mind that we live in a world where we need to practice more love and forgiveness. Yes, life is about choices and we can start by making those choices that pays it forward one heart and soul at a time. We need to take a closer look at the movies that mirror what we all face in life and how we can be better human beings. This is one of those movies that shows how an artist can take a story and bring to life a world that at some point in our lives we were some of those characters. It’s a real movie about LIFE.
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