Marquis Rodriguez to Star on Season Two of Amazon’s Anthology Series “Modern Love”

Marquis Rodriguez has found a new love

The Latino actor has been cast in Season 2 of Amazon’s anthology series Modern Love.

Marquis Rodriguez

In addition to Rodriguez, Season 2 of the series will feature episodes starring: Minnie Driver, as previously announced, Gbenga Akinnagbe, Susan Blackwell, Lucy Boynton, Tom Burke, Zoe Chao, Maria Dizzia, newcomer Grace Edwards, Dominique Fishback, Kathryn Gallagher, Kit Harington, Garrett Hedlund, Telci Huynh, Nikki M. James, Aparna Nancherla, Larry Owens, Zane Pais, Anna Paquin, Isaac Powell, Ben Rappaport, Milan Ray, Jack Reynor, Miranda Richardson, James Scully, Zuzanna Szadkowski, Lulu Wilson, Don Wycherley, and Jeena Yi.

“We’re so excited to bring a second season of this series to life, and give an opportunity to really shine a light on what matters most,” said series showrunner John Carney. “With so much uncertainty in our current world, these stories bring truth and love to people everywhere, and I’m so appreciative to be a part of making that happen.”

Carney also serves as writer, director and executive producer. John Crowley, Marta Cunningham, Jesse Peretz, and Andrew Rannells will also direct episodes of this season, with Celine Held and Logan George co-directing an episode. The episode Rannells will direct is based upon a personal essay that he penned for the New York Times column.

The series is produced by Amazon Studios, Storied Media Group, Likely Story, and The New York Times.

Rodriguez’s previous credits include When They See Us, Chicago Fire and Definitely, Maybe.

Strand Releasing Acquires Rights to Joshua Diaz’s “Straight Up”

Joshua Diaz is heading straight (up)to theaters…

Strand Releasing has acquired the American rights to James Sweeney’s feature film debut Straight Up, starring the Latino actor.

Joshua Diaz

Written, directed and starring Sweeney, the comedy follows Todd (Sweeney), a persnickety half-virgin diagnosed with OCD who thinks maybe he was socially conditioned to be gay. Rory (Katie Findlay) is a whip-smart aspiring actress with her own set of insecurities, sexual and otherwise. Over time, Rory’s stagnant career and Todd’s self-doubt begins to dismantle their odd couple routine, despite their unwillingness to let each other go.

“We’re thrilled to have James’ singular and humorous vision, his knack for snappy dialogue and smart visuals are inspired by period screwball comedies and create such a unique hybrid for modern cinema,” said Marcus Hu, of Strand Releasing.

“I am over the moon that Straight Up has found a home in Strand Releasing, and look forward to sharing shelf space with some of my favorite independent films,” said Sweeney.

Along with Diaz, who stars as Zane, the film also stars Randall ParkBetsy BrandtTracie ThomsJames ScullyDana Drori and Brendan Scannell

The film is produced by David Carricoat Valparaiso PicturesRoss Putman, and Sweeney.