San Antonio Rolls Out the Red Carpet for “Say A Little Prayer”
San Antonio, Texas, recently basked in the glow of Hollywood with a vibrant, exclusive advance screening of “Say A Little Prayer,” the new indie romantic comedy that proudly showcases the city. Starring global music sensation Luis Fonsi, known for his iconic hit “Despacito,” the event at the historical Charline McCombs Empire Theatre was a night to remember that embodied the spirit and warmth of the Alamo City.
A Night of Glamour and Community
[The screening], held on a Tuesday evening, brought together cast members and a host of local dignitaries, all eager to celebrate something that felt both uniquely San Antonio and universally relatable. Attendees donned their finest Texas chic and cocktail casual outfits, creating an atmosphere that felt as much like a celebration of the community as it did a film premiere.
Fonsi, along with co-stars Vannessa Vásquez and Vivian Lamolli, stepped onto the red carpet, basking in the love and excitement from fans and local supporters alike. “It was so welcoming,” Fonsi said in an interview just before the screening. “Kind of like when you go to somebody’s house and they’re saying, ‘Welcome to my house. Do you need anything?’ That’s how I felt during filming.” His sentiment was shared by the cast, reflecting the sense of community and family that they experienced while creating the film.
Local Love
The night was made even more special with a City of San Antonio proclamation declaring October 15 “Say A Little Prayer Day.” City officials, including Mayor Ron Nirenberg and Congressman Joaquin Castro, joined in celebrating the film and the vibrant culture of San Antonio, which features prominently in the story. “I’m hoping to see the colors of San Antonio shine very brightly,” noted Mayor Nirenberg.
The film, which hits select AMC Theatres this Thanksgiving, takes viewers on a journey through the city’s picturesque hotspots, including the iconic River Walk and the bustling Market Square. With stunning aerial shots showcasing landmarks like the Tower of the Americas, it’s sure to resonate with locals and newcomers alike.
From Script to Screen
“Say A Little Prayer” centers around three friends – Adela, Ruby, and Cristina – played by Vásquez, Jackie Cruz, and Lamolli, who recite an ancient prayer to St. Anthony for love. Their wishes come to life when Fonsi’s character, Rafael, appears as a potential romantic interest, bringing both heart and humor to the tale.
The production took over 20 days to film in various locations around San Antonio, capturing the essence of the city that the cast fell in love with. Lamolli expressed her affection for the community, saying, “The love of this community and San Antonio embraces us with just such a vigor that I could never express.”
Bringing Culture to Life
The film, directed by Patrick Perez Vidauri, not only provides laughs and romance but also shines a light on Latino culture in a heartwarming and genuine way. Writer Nancy De Los Santos, renowned for her work on the classic “Selena,” emphasized the film’s authenticity, stating, “This is us. This is our story.”
Featuring a predominantly Latino cast and crew, the film celebrates the richness of San Antonio’s culture while drawing in audiences with its relatable storyline and charming characters. And with original music from Fonsi himself, the film captures the melodic spirit of romance and the vibrant rhythms of San Antonio life.
A Bright Future for San Antonio Film
The screening concluded with a panel discussion that offered insights from the cast and filmmakers, leaving fans even more excited about the film’s upcoming release. The buzz in the room was palpable; everyone was eager for others to see San Antonio through this heartfelt lens.
As the lights dimmed and the credits rolled, viewers were left with the comforting feeling that no matter where you come from, love is the universal language, and San Antonio just happens to be a beautiful backdrop for such a story. With all the local pride and community spirit showcased, it seems clear that “Say A Little Prayer” is more than just a movie; it’s a love letter to a city that continues to welcome and inspire.
