FILM MAKER PREMIERS "DOWN FOR THE BARRIO" IN HOUSTON

LA MAFIA, LITTLE JOE AMONG HONORED GUESTS

HOUSTON:Acclaimed film maker Cesar Alejandro brings his new feature-length movie, starring Tejano legends Little Joe Hernandez and Ruben Ramos as well as country star Johnny Rodriguez to Houston on Wednesday, October 1.

Featuring veteran Hollywood actor Tony Plana as individual with a checkered past struggling to follow the straight and narrow, "Down for the Barrio is an inspiration for every social worker, counselor, teacher or parent who has lost the faith," according to El Paso Times reviewer Ramon Renteria.

A seasoned actor, director and producer, Cesar Alejandro has spent the last ten years producing independent action adventure films on the U.S.-Mexico border. Down for the Barrio is his first film shot on 35 mm. With a musical score by Fernando Lechuga, the screenplay was written by Alejandro and produced in conjunction with Laura R. de Zamora.

"We wanted to make a movie to counter the stereoypes of Latinos in mainstream Hollywood. Although gangs are part of the story, the film features Hispanics in positive roles on scale we've never seen," says Alejandro. "Our kids need to see more movies where we get to play the good guys, the heroes."

In a nod to Houston and the reigning exponents of both Tejano and International Latin music, Alejandro has asked Grammy Award-winning La Mafia to attend the premier here as honored VIP guests.

As La Mafia moves into the next millenium, says producer Mando Lichtenberger, the band is interested in exploring other aspects of the entertainment and media industry. "We were proud that actress Goldie Hawn selected La Mafia's Houston Sound Studio to mix parts of her sound track while she was here directing a film for TNT. And we want directors and producers to know we can provide high caliber services," Lichtenberger notes

Down for the Barrio, sponsored by KQQK - 106.5 FM, premiers in Houston at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 1 at the AMC Studio 30 Theaters, 2949 Dunvale. To reach the theater, call (713) 898-4864.

To schedule an interview with La Mafia, please contact Abel Salas at 713-224-3203. For a current press kit and/or a review copy of the group’s latest release, En Tus Manos, please submit a request in writing on letterhead via fax to 713-224-0560, or e-mail the request to Tejaztlan1@aol.com.

For more information on Down for the Barrio, contact Alexandria Films at (915) 587-4120.