Pelis and Popcorn: 'Sueño'

By Michael Lopez

We've given you action, we've given you horror, so why not throw a fun romantic musical into the Pelis and Popcorn mix? That's our thought this week with the touching 2005 film, Sueño. Featuring a cast of top notch Latino talent (and some great songs to boot), this forgotten gem is definitely worth rediscovering on Labor Day weekend.

By the time the mid-2000's rolled around, John Leguizamo had easily established himself as a comedian, live performer, and dramatic actor. But did you know he could sing too? Yes he had a few tracks on the Moulin Rouge soundtrack, but Sueño is the film that really gives you a taste of John’s balladeer abilities.

In this movie he plays Antonio, a Mexican immigrant with a dream (or Sueño) of making a career as a singer-songwriter. Following his adventures from south of the border to L.A., you get to see life experiences that we ourselves can often identify with. There's the passion to pursue what you love, but plenty of dead-end jobs and naysayers getting in the way of achieving it.

That doesn't stop Antonio though. As he makes his way through So Cal, you see him wooing not one, but two sexy Latinas. There's the always engaging Elizabeth Peña as an older divorcee who can create magic behind the mic. And there's also a beautiful young med student (played by Ana Claudia Talancon) who's easily able to tug on Antonio's heartstrings.

Being the effervescent rock star that he is, Antonio is soon able to bring both women under his spell. Don't worry, Leguizamo isn't playing a slime ball lead character, but rather an impassioned optimist who brings out the best in both his ladies.

This being a Hollywood fairy tale and all, you can imagine what happens when the singers make it to the battle of the bands. But along the way, there are plenty of heartfelt songs, well choreographed numbers (wait'll you see Elizabeth's Bollywood dance), and even an appearance from a famous Mexican singer.

If you have ever classified yourself as a dreamer, Sueño is definitely a Peli for you!

Do you believe in following your dreams? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Ana Claudia Talancon, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Elizabeth Peña, John Leguizamo, Música, Movies & CineMás, Pelis and Popcorn, Sueño