Amazon Studios recently released Cassandro, a film that tells the story of Saúl Armendáriz, a Mexican Lucha Libre wrestler who transforms into the openly gay exótico wrestler Cassandro. Directed by Oscar and Emmy-winning filmmaker Roger Ross Williams, Cassandro is a heartwarming and inspiring tale of courage, self-discovery, and empowerment.
The film takes place in the late 80s and follows Saúl Armendáriz as he enters the world of Mexican Lucha Libre wrestling. Despite his initial reluctance to participate as a drag exótico wrestler, Saúl gains a professional trainer and friend in Sabrina, played by Roberta Colindrez. With her help, Saúl finds the courage to transform into Cassandro, an improbable hero who not only empowers Saúl to change how he sees himself but also provides him with a purpose in life.
The film stars Golden Globe winner Gael García Bernal as Saúl Armendáriz and features a talented supporting cast, including Roberta Colindrez, Perla de la Rosa, Joaquín Cosío, and Raúl Castillo. The film also includes special appearances by Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio and El Hijo del Santo.
The team behind the camera includes composer Marcelo Zarvos, costume designer Mariestela Fernández, editors Affonso Gonçalves, Yibrán Asuad, and Sabine Hoffman, production designer J.C. Molina, director of photography Matías Penachino, and makeup designer Itzel Peña.
Produced by Gerardo Gatica, Todd Black, David Bloomfield, Ted Hope, and Julie Goldman, Cassandro is truly a collaborative effort. Executive producers include Gael García Bernal, Paula Amor, Mariana Rodríguez Cabarga, A. Müffelmann, Matías Penachino, David Teague, Jason Blumenthal, and Steve Tisch.
Cassandro debuted at the Sundance Film Festival on January 20, 2023, and is now available in select U.S. theaters, on Prime Video Mexico, and on Prime Video globally. This heartwarming and inspiring film is a must-see for anyone interested in stories of transformation and empowerment.
