Gina Rodriguez Debuts as Director with Boxing Drama 'House of Guerrero'
Gina Rodriguez is stepping behind the camera for the first time with the boxing drama 'House of Guerrero', a project she also stars in. The film, produced by Justin Baldoni and others, features a strong Latino cast and is filming in Los Angeles and California’s Imperial Valley.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Gina Rodriguez is set to make her feature‑directorial debut with the boxing drama House of Guerrero, a project she will also headline. The film brings together a talented Latino ensemble, including Carlos Sanson Jr., Rosario Dawson and George Lopez, and is already underway in Los Angeles and the Imperial Valley of California.
From Screen to Director’s Chair
Rodriguez, best known for her role as Jane Villanueva on the hit ABC series Jane the Virgin, has long expressed a desire to tell stories from a new perspective. House of Guerrero marks the first time she will direct a feature film, a milestone she shares with co‑producer Justin Baldoni, her longtime friend and former on‑screen love interest from Jane the Virgin.
The film’s script was written by Bernardo Cubría, a writer who has previously worked on the film Acapulco. Rodriguez’s own original story idea serves as the backbone of the narrative, which follows a once‑promising young boxer’s struggle to return to the ring and reclaim the life he once dreamed of.
An All‑Latino Cast and Crew
Central to the project’s authenticity is its all‑Latino cast. Carlos Sanson Jr. (known for his role in Bump), Rosario Dawson (famous for Ashoka) and George Lopez (star of Lopez vs. Lopez) have joined Rodriguez in the lead roles. The film’s fight choreography is handled by Clayton J. Barber, who worked on Creed III, and Eric Brown, known for his work on John Wick: Chapter 3 — Parabellum.
Production is led by a diverse team of producers. Scott Budnick and Ameet Shukla of 1Community, Molly Breeskin of Rodriguez’s I Can And I Will Productions, and Justin Baldoni and Andrew Calof of Wayfarer Studios are at the helm. The project also receives financial backing from HarbourView Media Group and Clare LoCicero, with tax credit financing from Three Point Capital.
Production Details and Behind‑the‑Scenes Insight
Filming began in Los Angeles and has expanded into California’s Imperial Valley, a region known for its rugged landscapes that provide an authentic backdrop for the film’s gritty narrative. The production team has emphasized the importance of representing Latino contributions to boxing, both as fighters and fans, a theme that runs throughout the script.
On Instagram, Baldoni shared a heartfelt video of himself hugging Rodriguez on the first day of pre‑production, captioning it, “God is good.” He praised the talent assembled for the film, noting that the crew’s energy was already palpable. “We’re only a few days into shooting, and you can already feel the laughter, the love and the raw emotion coming through in these performances,” he wrote. “With Gina at the helm, we’re in the hands of a true filmmaker with a remarkable vision and instinct for storytelling.”
Executive producers include Steve Sarowitz and Jamey Heath of Wayfarer, Sherrese Clarke and Niija Kuykendall of HarbourView Media Group, along with Clare LoCicero and Alice S. Kim. UTA Independent Film Group is handling worldwide sales, ensuring the film reaches a global audience.
What’s Next for ‘House of Guerrero’?
While the film is still in production, the team has hinted at more casting announcements to come. The project’s momentum is bolstered by the strong support from industry veterans and the growing interest in stories that highlight Latino experiences in sports.
As filming continues, audiences can expect a powerful narrative that blends intense boxing sequences with a heartfelt look at ambition, resilience and community. The film’s release date remains to be announced, but the production’s progress suggests a timely debut in the coming years.
Key facts
- Gina Rodriguez directs, stars and produces her debut film
- Carlos Sanson Jr., Rosario Dawson and George Lopez lead the cast
- Production underway in Los Angeles and Imperial Valley
- Story follows a boxer’s comeback journey
- Justin Baldoni and co‑producers bring industry expertise
- Emphasis on authentic Latino representation in boxing
Why it matters
The film showcases a Latina filmmaker’s transition to directing while foregrounding Latino talent in a sport that has historically marginalized them, offering fresh representation and inspiring future storytellers.
Frequently asked questions
When will ‘House of Guerrero’ be released?
The release date has not yet been announced, but production is progressing rapidly.
Who is producing the film?
Production is led by Justin Baldoni, Andrew Calof, Scott Budnick, Ameet Shukla, Molly Breeskin, and Clare LoCicero.
Where is the film being shot?
Filming locations include Los Angeles and California’s Imperial Valley.
What is the film’s main theme?
The story centers on a boxer’s struggle to return to the ring and reclaim his life.
Sources
- [1] hollywoodreporter.com — originally reported as “Justin Baldoni-Produced Boxing Drama ‘House of Guerrero’ Sets Lead Cast for Director Gina Rodriguez”
