Richard Montoya, Wanda de Jesus, Se Fija!’s Angela Ortíz
and Emilio Rivera
By Angela Ortíz
Montoya is well known for being one third of the performance troupe, Culture Clash. They are well known for their satirical look at our society and Chicano culture. Now he’s completed his film, Water and Power.
Montoya is a constant writer, always working on his craft. He’s created everything from hundreds of comedic sketches to full-length plays and screenplays, under his own name and with his Culture Clash mates. Now Water & Power, written and directed by Montoya, is based on his play of the same name about twin brothers–yes, “Water” and “Power”–who were given those nick names by their father, and how those names guided their future.
“You might have to see the film a few times to get all the nuances that run through it. You also need to be up on your L.A. history…”
Created through a grueling but rewarding twelve-day shoot, this film isn’t for everyone; it has a specific audience in mind. It’s dark, gritty, and even funny at times. You might have to see the film a few times to get all the nuances that run through it. You also need to be up on your L.A. history. The film is not perfect but as a first-time film director Montoya manages to take you on a poetic ride.
There’s also some good acting in the feature, by Nicholas Gonzalez, Emilio Rivera, Clancy Brown and Enrique Murciano. And it’s worth mentioning that W&P boasts one of the largest Latino casts and crews in a very long time, including the late and many more.
Check out the interview below with Montoya, Wanda de Jesus and Emilio Rivera.
