Gina Rodriguez is stepping into a whole new world with her directorial debut on a sports drama inspired by professional boxer Ryan Garcia.
In collaboration with One Community and Endeavor Content, the film features a fictional character inspired by Garcia’s experiences surround the sport as a Mexican-American boxer.
Rodriguez will direct, produce, star, and co-write the screenplay alongside Bernardo Cubria, actor and playwright. The film will bow in 2022, with Garcia also starring.
“I grew up in a boxing family and loved watching sports dramas with my dad. The philosophies of fighting – working hard, staying focused, being honest, fighting fair but to win – has stayed with me,” said Rodriguez. “On behalf of myself and my production company I Can and I Will, I couldn’t be more excited to partner with Ryan Garcia on this film. He is not only an outstanding athlete and champion, but a true advocate of normalizing and furthering conversations on mental health. His bravery has inspired me, and I am honored to have his trust to direct this film and guide his first foray into the arts,” she continued. “In One Community, Endeavor Content and WME, I have found empowering partners who are driven to tell stories that bring love, tolerance, and healing to the world. I am humbled by their support, in addition to that of my incredibly talented friend and fellow artist Bernardo Cubria who will be leading us in creating a script that celebrates both the sport and our community. We cannot wait to share this story with audiences worldwide.”
The uplifting sports drama follows a Mexican-American boxer, Alex Guerrero, played by Garcia, whose struggles with mental health rival his most strenuous bouts in the ring. According to Deadline, after a chance encounter with World Champion propels him into the spotlight, he must prove to himself and the world that he has what it takes to come out on top.
“I am very excited about the opportunity to work with Gina, Bernardo, One Community, and Endeavor Content on this project,” said Garcia. “My goals have always been to prove myself in the ring and to also continue to share my story in hopes that it will inspire others. Boxing will always be at the forefront of my career and I cannot wait to return to the ring very soon as a stronger and healthier KingRy.”
Molly Breeskin will oversee the project for Rodriguez’s I Can and I Will Productions while One Community and Endeavor Content finance the development. Also, to not interfere with Garcia’s fight schedule, it will begin shooting mid-next year.
“Ryan is an incredible fighter and remarkable human whose relentless focus and dedication has made him a superstar in the ring, but even more impressive is his desire to use his platform to help others by sharing his own struggles with anxiety and depression. Gina and Bernardo’s vision for this story spoke to us immediately and we are so excited to work with this incredibly inspiring team,” said Scott Budnick, CEO One Community.
The project will break barriers with Latinx presence and representation in front and behind the camera.
