The 23rd Latino International Film Festival (LALIFF) witnessed the birth of a groundbreaking cinematic gem as The Unexpecteds, written and directed by Alejandro Montoya Marín and produced by Alejandro De Hoyos for Alta California Pictures, stormed through this years festival and stole the show.
Rave reviews from film critics have cemented The Unexpecteds as a must-watch film of the year. The LA Times hails it as “One of the 8 movies to watch at this year’s Latino International Film Festival,” praising it for its timely thesis and the transformation of average protagonists into amateur vigilantes risking everything for a shot at a brighter future.
Meanwhile, Rosa Parra of Latino Slant declares it as the “most outstanding film at this year’s LALIFF,” singling out the remarkable performances of Alejandro De Hoyos as the Latino James Bond-esque Felipe and the dynamic father-son duo that captivates audiences.
Alan French from Sunshine State Cineplex: “Walsh and De Hoyos drive many of the comedy scenes, and so with expertise. Walsh plays into the “sad sack” trope but does so in a way that creates empathy. It’s not boisterous like his Veep persona, but instead, it helps the audience see his genuine motivations. Meanwhile, De Hoyos excels at the action-star elements and slowly connects with Gary over their shared experiences as fathers. They become strangely linked and play off each other well.”
Starring a powerful ensemble including Matt Walsh, Alejandro De Hoyos, John Kaler, Chelsea Rendon, Francisco Ramos, Jason Konipisos-Alvarez, Sonya Smith, Gerry Bednob, Sandy Hernandez, Natasha Leggero and Laura Patalano, The Unexpecteds weaves a tale of action, humor, and heart that resonates with viewers of all backgrounds.
Gary (Matt Walsh) and his best friends (Chelsea Rendon, Francisco Ramos & Gerry Bednob) seek revenge against a social media influencer (John Kaler) who has scammed them of their life savings.
With sold-out screenings and a demand so high that it had to upgrade to a larger venue at the Regal Theatre LA Live, The Unexpecteds is the talk of the town.
Produced by Alejandro De Hoyos and co-produced by Matt Walsh, John Kaler, Jasmin Espada, Pedro Pano, and Christina Gopal, The Unexpecteds is a testament to the power of Montoya Marin’s renegade style storytelling having started his career as one of Robert Rodriguez’ directors in Rebel Without A Crew.
Prepare to laugh, be entertained, and moved by The Unexpecteds – a film that defies expectations and leaves a lasting impact as a new breed of action dramedy produced by a new breed of producers set to revolutionize the filmmaking landscape.