San Antonio Takes Center Stage in New Romantic Comedy “Say a Little Prayer”
San Antonio is lighting up the big screen in a delightful new rom-com titled “Say a Little Prayer.” With breathtaking backdrops such as the iconic Pearl Brewery, the stunning River Walk, and the vibrant La Villita, it’s hard to believe this film was ever meant to be set anywhere else! It’s truly a love letter to the Alamo City, showcasing its unique charm through and through.
A Twist in the Tale
Screenwriter Nancy de los Santos-Reza originally envisioned this heartwarming story taking place in her hometown of Chicago. However, during her work on a scripted history of San Antonio for the city’s tricentennial celebration in 2018, everything changed. While discussing her project with an interviewee, the seeds of transformation were planted.
“You mean our San Antonio?” the interviewee exclaimed, sparking a lightbulb moment for de los Santos-Reza. “It just was like, boom. Oh my goodness, I’m supposed to be doing it here.” And with that, the city’s vibrant culture and spirit became part of the narrative! She dove back into her script, enthusiastically rewriting it with *everything San Antonio* in mind.
Star Power and Serendipity
Another key player in all this is international pop sensation Luis Fonsi, famous for his chart-topping hit “Despacito.” His involvement in the film marks a dazzling debut in the world of acting. Imagine the excitement when de los Santos-Reza and director Patrick Perez Vidauri discovered they could get him on board!
The film tells the story of Adela (played by the talented Vannessa Vasquez), who is determined to run her arts gallery while juggling a noncommittal boyfriend and the pressing expectations of her grandmother: find a husband before she kicks the bucket! A heartfelt plea to St. Anthony leads her to cross paths with the charming Rafael, played by Fonsi. Their connection forms around their mutual love for art, bringing a blend of romance and comedy to the screen.
Breaking Down Barriers
For de los Santos-Reza, getting to this moment wasn’t easy. Despite having a successful track record in Hollywood, she faced significant barriers when it came to getting *Latino-centric* films made. The industry historically has shown little interest in stories that feature protagonists who look like her. “I had tried for a number of years to get this produced in Hollywood and just could not get the interest,” she shared.
Rather than getting discouraged, she took matters into her own hands by going the independent route. “I did not want to be 100 years old and look back and say, ‘Damn, I didn’t do that movie,’” she reflected. Through persistence and passion, she teamed up with Vidauri and his company, Migrant Filmworks, to move things along swiftly.
A Quick Turnaround
What followed was a rush of activity. Within three months of Vidauri coming on board, cameras were rolling in various picturesque spots around San Antonio. The film captured a *genuine essence* that wouldn’t have been possible elsewhere.
Fonsi’s involvement played a pivotal role in getting funding and excitement for the project. And, according to Vidauri, finding exquisite filming locations ended up being almost magical. “The way we got our locations sometimes was really almost magical,” he said, highlighting how much of the charm of San Antonio was preserved right on screen.
Sparking Connections
Since its release, “Say a Little Prayer” has made a mark, securing a place in numerous theaters and resonating well with audiences eager to see authentic Latino stories. De los Santos-Reza proudly shared a powerful moment from a screening when a young woman remarked, “This is the first time I had seen myself on the screen.”
That kind of representation matters and brings joy to those who feel overlooked in mainstream narratives. “I’m thrilled that those images of Latinas who own a business, who fall in love with the wrong person just as much as anybody else and who have aspirations are in that movie forever,” she said.
Celebrate San Antonio
As the film continues to entertain moviegoers, its connections to San Antonio remain strong. With scenes capturing local landmarks and culture, it’s hard not to feel a sense of pride for the city as viewers enjoy the rom-com’s lovely aesthetics. The film is indeed a celebration of *San Antonio’s spirit,* allowing audiences not only to connect with the characters but also with the remarkable world around them.
Whether you’re laughing, crying, or swooning over the charm of Fonsi’s character, one thing is clear: *San Antonio has stolen the show*, and de los Santos-Reza’s vision has come to life in ways that are simply magical. So, if you haven’t seen it yet, make sure to catch “Say a Little Prayer”—it’s a film that’s not just about love; it’s about *community*, *identity*, and the beautiful, bustling city we call home.
