Outline:
A New Adventure in Soccer and Storytelling
Antonio Banderas and Danny Trejo are set to star in a new film titled “Armadillo United,” a fantastical sports drama that promises to captivate audiences with its unique blend of humor, heart, and soccer. The movie brings together two iconic actors who have previously shared the screen in several memorable projects, including 1995’s “Desperado,” 1996’s “From Dusk Till Dawn,” and the “Spy Kids” franchise.
Following the Journey of a Young Soccer Prodigy
“Armadillo United” follows the story of 12-year-old Dante Delgado and his fictional soccer team as they embark on an exciting journey to the World Cup of Youth Soccer in Rio de Janeiro. The film is designed to be a feel-good experience, capturing the joy of childhood, the beauty of the game, and the magic of storytelling.
Banderas will play the role of Diego, an eccentric ice cream vendor who believes he is the legendary Argentine soccer player Diego Maradona. He imparts important soccer and life lessons to Dante, the protagonist. Rubén Blades, known for his role in “Fear the Walking Dead,” will portray Coach Yepez, a former professional soccer star who becomes the coach of Armadillo United. Danay Garcia, from “Prison Break,” will play Dante’s mother, DeeDee. Meanwhile, Trejo will take on the role of Coach Koko, the leader of Armadillo United’s arch-rivals, The Champions.
A Talented Creative Team Behind the Scenes
Alan Jacobs, the writer and director of the film, has a proven track record with projects like “Down for Life.” He is joined by producers Elizabeth Avellán, Brent Morris, and Paul Merryman, who have worked on successful films such as “Spy Kids,””The Lost Bus,” and “The Outpost.” Mike Golub, a Major League Soccer executive, will serve as executive producer, adding a layer of authenticity to the film’s soccer sequences.
Jacobs expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “In a word, the film is about joy. The joy of being a kid, the joy of playing the beautiful game, and the joy of delivering this magical story to the world.” He also praised the cast, saying, “We are truly blessed to cast these four immensely talented performers who embody that spirit of joy on and off the screen. I am confident that Antonio, Rubén, Danay, and Danny will be a great inspiration to the young people in our cast and to audiences around the globe.”
Filming and Production Details
Filming for “Armadillo United” is set to begin in March at Troublemaker Studios in Austin, Texas. Additional scenes will be shot on location in Brazil and Spain, adding a global flavor to the film. The production is being financed by Watch LLC and Arca Media.
Collaboration with Major League Soccer
The creative team behind the film is working closely with Houston Dynamo of Major League Soccer. The team will provide both players and coaches for extensive soccer sequences in the film. Approximately 30 players from the Houston Dynamo Academy will be featured in the movie, supported by their actual coaches.
Jacobs, who has a background as a former soccer coach, explained the importance of this collaboration: “When we started the project, our first stop was Major League Soccer. You can’t make a great dance movie without great dancers and you can’t make a great soccer movie without great soccer players. The MLS Academy program has the best young players in the country. It’s the future of U.S. soccer. We’re thrilled to be working with them.”
Looking Forward to the Future of the Film
As the production moves forward, fans of Banderas, Trejo, and the world of soccer are eagerly anticipating the release of “Armadillo United.” With its talented cast, experienced crew, and authentic soccer elements, the film promises to deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience.