La Soga Movie Premiere by Leticia Reyes

La Soga Movie Premiere
NYC

I was somewhat hesitant going into the premiere of the movie, La Soga, starring Manny Perez and Denise Quinones. The hype following the movie was incredible but I wasn't letting that sway my judgement as I arrived at the Regal Cinema on 14th Street in New York City. The Red Carpet was shining with top notch Latino acting talent including Manny and Denise, along with Paul Calderon and Juan Fernandez, who is well known and respected in the Dominican Republic. Each of the actors spoke about their excitement to not only premiere in New York but also to have a film that told a unique story. Nuestra historia. A story of the struggles, the injustices and the innocence lost that many experience not only en la republica dominicana but in so many other nations that echo its perils. I stood by as the turn out of support landed in the hundreds of movie goers. I was just as interested to see if, indeed, La Soga, would stand up to all the hype. I was lucky enough to grab a seat in the packed theater as the lights dimmed and cheers exploded as the opening credits danced on the screen. Vivid imagery and familiar rhythms flashed before my eyes as I experienced a kaleidoscope of emotions ranging from laughter to sadness, and in some cases, pure terror. The story, told through the eyes of a young boy living in Santiago, took a brave stance against government corruption. It is very risky in its portrayal of the island and the violence that plagues it. Beware to those with weak stomachs and a strong love for animals, however the movie is sprinkled with comedic moments and is predicated on the purity of young love.

The end result was that La Soga exceeded my expectations. It succeeded in taking me on a journey that touched all of my senses and left me feeling sensitive to the experiences of my brothers and sisters who have lived a similar story. I would encourage my fellow latinos to do as I did and judge for yourself. After reading some of the critics remarks, it is evident to me that unless you are rooted in the culture, you just won't get it. La Soga opens in theaters on Friday, August 13th, 2010. Be bold like the movie and check it out! You can watch my red carpet coverage of La Soga at www.enlaescena.com. Special thanks to my En La Escena crew and urban lifestyle media for making us a part of history. I'm Leticia Reyes reporting for En La Escena! :o)

Red Carpet La Soga - En La Escena

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Leticia Reyes and Paola Cancellieri from En La Escena were at the Red Carpet Event of "La Soga". Enjoy great Interviews with Juan Fernandez, Josh Crook, Manny Perez, Denise Quiñonez, Yenny Love.

La Soga DQ - En La Escena

Jessica Medina our host interviewed Dennise Quinonez actress from La Soga.

La Soga MP - En La Escena

"LA SOGA" wrote, acted and produced by Manny Perez, will hit the theaters nationwide, and Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico beginning August 13th. Please check your local theaters. Jessica Medina of "En la Escena" interviews Manny Perez about his movie La Soga, prior to him getting ready for the star studded Red Carpet screening of the movie in NYC.

La Soga - The Movie

Directed By Josh Crook

Written By, Produced and Starring Manny Perez

Also starring: Denise Quiñones, Paul Calderon, Juan Fernandez, Hemky Madera, Alfonso Rodriguez, Anais Martinez, Margo Martindale, Celines Toribo, and Michael Ángel Martinez


La Soga is an edgy, action-packed thriller set in the Dominican Republic and New York City. The film follows the personal journey of Luisito a.k.a. ‘La Soga’, the son of a butcher turned government killer, who risks everything for justice. La Soga depicts corruption, brutality and one man's struggle to find redemption.

In a poor neighborhood in the Dominican Republic where the streets are run by deported drug dealers, a modest butcher struggles to raise his sensitive 10-year old son, Luisito. When Luisito witnesses the brutal murder of his father by a vicious criminal named Rafa (Paul Calderon), his life is forever altered. Twenty years later, Luisito (Manny Perez) works for General Colon (Juan Fernandez), the head of the Dominican secret police. Colon preys on the impressionable Luisito’s desire for revenge and transforms him into a heartless killer. Into Luisito’s world enters Jenny (Denise Quiñones), a childhood sweetheart who left for New York shortly before Luisito’s family tragedy. Unaware of his occupation, Jenny falls for the seemingly innocent Luisito. As Luisito investigates the General and unearths the greatest betrayal of all, he must find

"GUN" Movie Premiere in the New York International Latino Film Festival

"GUN" Premiered in the New York International Film Festival on July 30th , 2010.This film is action packed and very street edgy. It's about this gun runner on the rise.

GUN was written by Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, in which he plays the lead character along with Val Kilmer. This movie was Directed by the very well known music video director Jessy Terrero of Terrero Films. Curtis Jackson's character is more of a man who is trying to grow in a world of illegal firearms and becomes the head go to man. Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, told En La Escena that this screenplay was written originally on how guns go from the manufacturer to point of purchase, as distributed by law abiding citizens and then unfortunately falls into the wrong hands. 50 Cent also shared with us that he will be continuing to produce music and is currently working on a new album. Some of the members of the cast were present at the premiere like Lynn Whitfield, who played the role of 50 Cent's mother in the movie GUN. Other celebrities & Actors came out to support Jessy Terrero and Curtis Jackson at the GUN premiere such as, Julissa Bermudez, Elvis Nolasco, Ephraim Benton, Sharif Atkins, Adrienne Bailon, just to name a few...

"Tropico De Sangre" Premiere in the New York International Latino Film Festival

On July 29th, Jessica Medina covered the Premiere of "Tropico de Sangre"in the NYILFF "Dominican Night" celebration for En La Escena. This event took place at Columbia University in Washington Heights, where a large majority of residents are Dominican. The evening was full of celebrities walking the red carpet and even supporting celebrity friends such as Henry from "Aventura" came to see the movie and shared with us the great news of recently becoming a dad. The French producer of this film that lives in Dominican Republic Joan Giacinti was present, along with Executive Producer/Director Juan Delancer. There were international as well as national actors such as Michelle Rodriguez & Juan Fernandez and more specifically Dominican actors residing in the U.S., such as Celines Toribio, Claudette Lali, Luchy Estevez, Sergio Carlo. The Director Juan Delancer, said: "It's a film that explores the atmosphere of a very peculiar dictatorship and in the same scenario the courage of three women and brave men who defied Rafael Leonidas Trujillo, and marked the end of a dictatorial regime."

Many are content with this film and say more films about the Dominican history and culture should be made so our youth could be educated on the history of the Dominican Republic.

Spare Change AZ - En La Escena

Trey Dice is a successful musician living the lavish lifestyle he always dreamed about--while Isis Steele, his former love, still struggles to overcome their failed relationship. One quiet night, Trey has a chance encounter with Luiz Crawls, a guilt-ridden jazz legend whose career has long since plummeted after the loss of his wife. Tormented by self-blame and desperate to free himself from emotional captivity, Luiz seizes his opportunity for redemption: forcing Trey to face truths that will alter the course of his life forever.

Salsa Congress NY - En La Escena

Salsa dance competition held in NY City Hilton Hotel. Proffesional Dancing Groups and couples come from all over to work to compete, for money and prizes. Hosted by JI Starr "El Boricua de New York and our special reporter Leticia Reyes covers the event.

GUN The Movie - En La Escena

Live from the red carpet movie presentation, "GUN" directed by Jessy Terrero and as main actor Curtis "50 Cents" Jackson at New York International Latino Film Festival.

Top Ten July 25 - En La Escena

JI Starr "El Boricua de New York present this week count down in La Mega 97.9

Aventura Blog

Super group Aventura has amassed more accomplishments and accolades than any other bachata group in existence! For this reason alone, I was thrilled to be at their "farewell" party as they concluded the last leg of their US based tour. La fiesta, sponsored by Hennessy, was at the exclusive penthouse floor of the Rivington Hotel in New York City. You could sense everyone's excitement as they waited for the group to arrive. The energy built up by Romeo, Henry, Lenny and Max earned them an incredible year that lead to four sold out concerts in Madison Square Garden, nine Latin Billboard awards including latin artist and album of the year, and a trip to the white house to celebrate latin heritage with President Obama. If that wasn't enough to put them on top, their hit single, Obsesion went to number one across the globe in Italy! With their popularity and reach running wild, it was sad for most of us here in New York to imagine that they won't be back for a while. Rumors were running rampant about the group splitting up to work on solo projects so I couldn't wait to ask them myself! My time finally came as Lenny and Max stepped onto the carpet. I was able to breathe a sigh of relief as they assured me that they will indeed be back together to record another album. Gracias a dios! Of course, in the meantime, they will also be involved in solo projects, but that only adds to what this super talented group brings to the world. Their popularity en el mundo latino has been regarded to be as massive as that of the Beatles. Only time will tell if this is actually true and whether or not the group can amass the same popularity in mainstream american society. However, it is clear to them, and to all of who are fans, that they are truly living a grand aventura! Let's see where they land next! In the meantime, check out www.enlaescena.com to see the video footage! I'm Leticia Reyes reporting for En La Escena!

Tiki Tiki July Pt 2 -En La Escena

Ji Starr and our Leticia Reyes continues with the weekly Latino Entertainment. ... (more info) (less info)

Tiki Tiki July Pt 1 - En La Escena

En La Escena reporter Leticia Reyes talked about The Tiki Tiki of the week with JI Starr from La Mega

Aventura - En La Escena

Aventura holds an exclusive party at Riving Hotel, NYC. Celebrating he end of their tour "The Last" of split of the group to pursue solo projects. Leticia Reyes reports from inside the party, in the attendance was also reporter Jessica Medina .

City Island Interview - En La Escena

Leticia Reyes interviews Andy Garcia at the Waldorf Astoria, for his new movie "City Island".

Apollo 75 Years - En La Escena

The Apollo Theatre celebrates 75 yrs by presenting the Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis Humanitarian honors to power couple Mark Anthony and Jennifer Lopez., and also honored for her musical talent Aretha Franklin.


Hosted by Jamie Foxx and attended by Danny Glover, Chris Tucker, Angela Basset, Estelle, Rev Al Sharpton, Malik Yoba and many more....

Confederate Motors - En La Escena

Leticia Reyes interviews the designer of Confederate Motors at the NY Auto Show 2010.

Latin Trends Relaunch - En La Escena

Latin Trends Magazine relaunches is product (formerly DTM) at Latin Quarters in NY. Paola Cancellieri from ELE is in the house getting the 411.

Latin Trends Magazine relaunches is product (formerly DTM) at Latin Quarters in NY. Paola Cancellieri from ELE is in the house getting the 411.

Tony Swing MSNS - En La Escena

Thalia Patillo (ELE) reporter interviews "Tony Swing" Merengue artists, at the Midsummer Nights swing concert series held at Lincoln Center in NYC.

BMI Alt Music Showcase - En La Escena

En La Escena reporter Leticia Reyes attended the BMI Verano Alternativa Music Showcase held at SOB's in New York City.  Featured in this years showcase were Punto G NYC, a Columbian latin rock funk band, Maria Isa, a Minnesota native of Puerto Rican descent performing her latest songs from her CD "Street Politics".  Maluca, a New York City Dominican by product and self proclaimed 1/2 pain in the ass, with her mix of club rhythms. Last but not least Bachaco, a mixture of Reggae, Columbian Cumbia, Ska and hip hop, sung in a combination of English and Spanish.  All these elements combined make their music a multi cultural experience. 'Support your local artists,' says Leticia Reyes.

Blog Latin Trends

Hola Chicos! It’s your girl Paola Cancellieri once again, bringing you the latest 411.


En La Escena was present at the Re-Launch Party of “Latin Trends Magazine” this past Friday June 26th. The party took place at LQ Nightclub


There I had the pleasure of interviewing the Founder of Latin Trends Juan Guillen. To hear him speak the way he did was very inspiring to me. The commitment he has towards our Latino community could be heard in every word he spoke! For me he was the highlight of the night! In my interview with Mr.Guillen, You will realize the commitment he has with the bicultural Latino consumer and why its important for “Latin Trends” to deliver a high quality product just for us!


The night was charmed by the beauty of former contestants of the SiTV show “Model Latina” season one . I had the opportunity to chat with them and see what they were up to nowadays! Miss Dominican Republic USA was also present supporting “Latin Trends Magazine” and the performers of the night were “Bachata Heights”. They had the entire Nightclub dancing to their beat .


The energy was great, a wide range of people attended and the re-launch party was a complete success! Mission Accomplished Latin Trends Magazine! We the En La Escena family support you & wish you many more successful years! Make sure to catch our coverage…Only on En La Escena!

116th st Festival NYC 2010 - En La Escena

116th st Festival NYC 2010 - En La Escena

Ameena Dove, hangsout at the 116th Street Festival in NYC with Urban Latino Radio. Tastes the local cuisine, listens to traditional PR music and takes in the atmosphere.

World Cup 2010 A vs M - En La Escena

World Cup 2010 A vs M - En La Escena


Paola reports from a local spot in Astoria Queens for the World Cup Match between Argentina and Mexico.

World Cup 2010 A vs M - En La Escena

World Cup 2010 Blog - En La Escena

Mexico VS Argentina - by Paola Cancellieri
En La Escena went to "Studio Square" the new beer garden located in Astoria Queens. Also known as "S2" to cover the game of Mexico vs Argentina.


The garden of S2 was packed with fans of both teams and the energy was amazing!!! The sound of drums & bubuselas was present as well. I have been watching the World Cup games from home....but to go out to a bar & be next to others rooting for your team as well, cant be beat! Flags of Mexico & Argentina all over the place, people with flags painted on their face and arms (I was one of them) it was just great to be there!


But then my smile went away!!! Argentina scored their 1st Gol. A goal that should of been taken away...but I'm not getting into that right now. The Argentinian fans went wild and what was a mixed crowd... separated in a flash!

Mexican fans never gave up hope...they would sing "yes we can" but in Spanish. Then came other two gols! Argentinian fans then sang "No you cant" At this point I was like "we need to score at least one" we cant leave with a clean slate here!!!

Then it came...our one and only gol! S2 trembled! Mexican crowd went wild! The rivalry of Mexico & Argentina can only be compare to the rivalry of Yankees vs Red Sox's, that should give you an idea! So not to leave with a clean slate was crucial at this point!
The game ended, and the cheers just burst from both sides. Ones cheered for their win, while others cheered for pride! Because on these games that's what it all comes down to 'National Pride" win or loose we have to stick to out team! It was great to be live with the public enjoying the game, their love to us ELE is what makes it very rewarding. I love being close to people, thank you for your constant support. ~ Paola Cancellieri

PR Parade 2010 Pt1 - En La Escena

"En La Escena" Celebrating the National Puerto Rican Day Parade.

21st Annual Tropical Night at South Street Seaport

En La Escena was at the 2010 Annual Tropical Night at South Street Seaport with an All-Star Tribute to legendary Latin Music Promoter Ralph Mercado. The evening was full of salsa music the amazing Salseros Ray Sepulveda, Hector Tricoche, Michael Stuart and more. This year was also the "Bailando con Sabor" Dance Contest Sponsored by Ronald McDonald. ELE interviewed the winning couple who are best friends and have been dancing for 10 years winners of the grand prize of $500 dollars. Debbie Mercado was also present along with the entire Mercado family and received a recognition from El Diario Newspaper in rememberance of her father the entrepreneur Ralph Mercado. The Festival was not only filled with the Salsa Performances and the Mercado Family but we also had the pleasure of meeting and interviewing Hector Maisonave. Hector has been in the industry as a promoter/manager for over 60 years. He is 88 years old and attended the Annual Tropical Night in remembrance of his bestfriend Ralph Mercado. Mr. Maisonave this year received the Legendary Award and PBS did a documentary on his life. ELE had a wonderful time at the festival and enjoyed the great Salsa Music that all these long time Salseros performed. En La Escena congratulates the Mercado Family for continuing to keep the legacy alive.

Top Ten - En La Escena

JI Starr from La Mega and En La Escena presented the Top Ten of this week.

People Espanol 2010 Part 2 - En La Escena

Continuation of People Espanol

My Trip to the 2010 Latin Billboards

by Leticia Reyes

I knew writing this blog would be one trip down memory lane that I'd want to repeat over and over and over again! Los Latin Billboards desde San Juan Puerto Rico estuvo ENCENDIDO!! The event took place in the Conrad Hotel in the Condado district of San Juan. Puerto Rico was overjoyed to host one of the biggest award shows honoring some of the world's most illustrious latin musical talents.



Conferencia

Throughout the three day conference that kicked off with a Daddy Yankee listening party, myself, along with media partners My Latino Voice and Latin Trends Magazine viewed numerous star studded panel discussions and one on one exclusive interviews with featured artists. Kevin "Pills" Montano brought together a power house panel of urban music stars including Tito El Bambino, La Caballota, Ivy Queen, A.B. Quintanilla and Chino y Nacho to discuss the future of the urban genre in latin music. Elvis Crespo debuted his new single off his upcoming album while discussing trends in tropical music. Fourteen time nominated bachata kings, Aventura, took to the stage to reminisce of the days before they hit their huge success and how they created their chart topping sound. And perhaps the most highly anticipated one-on-one took place when Puerto Rico's own, Marc Anthony, gave everyone chills as he presented and spoke of his newest album and single, Y quien es el, originally sung by Jose Luis Perales. And if you think that was fun, that's because you weren't at the parties that culminated each day of the conference up until show time!

Fiestas

The waves crashing off the malecon were the perfect setting for the billboard pool party. The lights shown brightly as some of the hottest old school and new school performers took to stage sending the crowd into frenzy. From young super stars En'klave to Bachata Heightz, Elvis Crespo and Victor Manuelle, every hip was swaying as the whole crowd sung the lyrics word for word. The warm air was filled with the celebration of music and artistry and I was certainly in my glory. The festive atmosphere was definitely happening afterwards, in the hotel lobby, as we ran into many conference goers and industry professionals and performers like Danny "El Chulito" Fernandez of the 740 Boyz. The following night's festivities took it to yet another level as the various nominees were honored at a pre-show red carpet bash. Young cutie Prince Royce sang his bachata rendition of Stand By Me that left most of the crowd cooing but Luis Enrique blew everyone away with his blow out performance of Yo No Se Manana! Increible!



Awards Show

En La Escena was center stage to watch the 21st annual billboard awards. We caught every incredible moment from the standing ovation given to Ricky Martin, to a collaboration between Paulina Rubio and Wyclef Jean, to performances by Wisin and Yandell, David Bisbal, Juan Luis Guerra, Thalia, Luis Fonsi and the spirit of hope award given to Marc Anthony following his jaw dropping performance. Aventura took home the most of the awards followed by Tito El Bambino who only managed to walk away with seven!


Words couldn't express the experience of being a part of a night in musical history! Check out our web page for video footage of some of these magical moments as well as exclusive en la escena interviews of the Latin Billboard Awards in Puerto Rico. I'm Leticia Reyes of En La Escena and I love my job! Until next year mi gente!!

PEOPLE in ESPAÑOL 2010 - En La Escena

Like every year, came the time know who integrate the select list of the 50 most beautiful PEOPLE in ESPAÑOL and in the edition of our magazine and En La Escena were there ... don't miss!

Tiki Tiki Part 2 - May

Leticia Reyes continues sharing her expirienced during Latino Billboard Award 2010 held in San Juan, Puerto Rico to JI Starr. She talks about her media partners En La Escena, My Latino Voice, interviews, parties, and much more....

Tiki Tiki - May Part 1

This week Leticia Reyes shared her expirience during Latino Billboard Award 2010 held in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Fashion 26 - En La Escena Part 2

Leticia Reyes attended the opening of a new hotel called Fashion 26 located on west 26th st in NYC.

Fashion 26 - En La Escena Part 1

Leticia Reyes attended the opening of a new hotel called Fashion 26 located on west 26th st in NYC.

Prince Royce Live - En La Escena

Top Stop Music from Santo Domingo; view PrinceRoyce who won the second position in Tropical Music at En La Escena. ... (more info) (less info)

ESPN Deportes- En La Escena

Dewars and ESPN Deportes present a LIVE Broadcast of Beisbol Esta Noche with Candy Maldonado, Carolina Guillen, and Fernando Alvarez.

The Mission PT2

Leticia Reyes prepares for her interview with Benjamin Bratt and his new movie "La Mission" "The mission"

The Mission PT1 - En La Escena

Leticia Reyes prepares for her interview with Benjamin Bratt and his new movie "La Mission" "The mission"

La Mision Blog

Considering I haven't seen much press concerning the opening of the movie, La Mission, I decided to do my due diligence and tell everyone I know that seeing this flick starring Benjamin Bratt is a MUST! This movie tugged on my heartstrings and had me sitting at the edge of my seat throughout its entirety! It is not only rich in cinematography but also expresses a wide range of emotion and drama. Benjamin Bratt's character, Che Rivera, is a Chicano male who is a single father employed as a bus driver and is both respected and feared in his San Francisco barrio, la mission, for being a real "macho". Adding to his persona is his love for low riding cars, which he restores to a beautiful finish so he and his posse can take a cruise down the street "low and slow". His whole world comes to a climatic tailspin when he discovers pictures of his son sharing a kiss with a male companion. This discovery leads to a physical altercation between father and son as Che disowns his only child for being homosexual. As each party tries to work through the upheaval, Che is forced to deal with his alcoholic past and his tendency to turn to physical means to dissolve his problems. To say this movie is deep and gripping is an understatement! For all Latinos alike, you'll find a piece of you in this movie, and you'll be shocked how it addresses countless topics that have long been taboo in our culture. This film was written and directed by Peter Bratt and also stars Talisa Soto Bratt. It is not the type of film that you should go see just because it is spearheaded by Latinos. It is the type of film that you should go see because it quality, it is powerful AND it is spearheaded by Latinos! This ELE reporter gives it an enthusiastic two thumbs up!! It opens in NYC theaters on April 9th! Go support!! And while you are at it, check out the pics from my interview at the premier. Benjamin, Peter and Talisa were extremely gracious and gorgeous! Special thanks goes to Myrdith, Monica of Istylist.com, Jane Wilson-Marquis, and the fabulous staff of Melange Salon in the Peninsula hotel. Interview video footage coming soon to www.enlaescena.com...stay tuned!

Joe - All The Things (Your Man Won't Do)

Love this song

Joe - I Wanna Know

Dedicated to the one

Keyshia Cole - I Remember

Keyshia Cole - Heaven Sent

love the song, reminds me of DR

Keyshia Cole - Love

Feeling Keisha tonight