Haute Partners, Philanthropy | August 30, 2024

Celebrities Rally Behind City of Dreams Movie Aiming To Raise Awareness For Children Trapped In Modern-Day Sla...

Haute Partners, Philanthropy | August 30, 2024

From the executive producers of the box office phenomenon Sound of Freedom comes another powerful and inspiring film, City of Dreams, by writer/director, Mo Ramchandani.

City of Dreams is an inspiring true story about a boy’s courageous battle to free himself and others from the brutal grasp of slavery.

The film earned a 100% perfect rating from critics and, more importantly, has the power to change and save lives.

Here is a link to watch the trailer: City of Dreams Ambassador Trailer

AMBASSADORS OF FREEDOM

RECORD-BREAKING PREMIERE

City of Dreams shattered the Guinness World Record previously held by Star Wars for the largest movie premiere in American history. While Star Wars drew attendees in three different locations, City of Dreams premiered in over 100 screens in the top theaters across the U.S, hosting thousands of people nationwide. Tony Robbins expressed the significance of this moment, saying, “It is time to bring awareness to what’s really happening around the world and even in this country around child slavery. Please join us in the fight for the freedom of these innocent children.”

A PREMIERE WITH A PURPOSE

Mo Ramchandani, the film’s writer and director, shared his passion for the film’s purpose, saying, “There are 12 million children who are victims of modern-day slavery today, and we told the story of one of those children who had the courage to fight back.”

Sean Wolfington, producer of City of Dreams and executive producer of Sound of Freedom, added, “I’m so grateful that Mo Ramchandani created such a powerful and inspiring film that has the potential to change and save kids’ lives. I hope this movie inspires millions of people to join the fight for the freedom of these innocent children.”

Oscar Nominated Actor and Director Sylvester Stallone remarked, “I’ve been making films for a long time, and every now and then, you come across a film that is actually truly important—not just entertaining, but one that can change your entire outlook on life. This is one of them.”

iHeartMedia covered this record breaking premiere with on-air talent and remote crews on-site, capturing the event across the country, helping to heighten awareness and visibility for this critical cause. Enrique Santos, President of iHeart Latino said, “This historic event brought communities together to fight for the freedom of the innocent children who are victims of modern slavery.”

MOVIE TO MOVEMENT: LEADERS UNITE TO COMBAT CHILD TRAFFICKING

The movie has detonated a movement that’s attracted influential leaders, artists, athletes, and celebrities who joined forces to raise awareness and promote the movie’s mission to end child trafficking.

Luis Fonsi, five-time Grammy award winner and the singer of the theme song of the film, penned by Hall of Fame songwriter Linda Perry, expressed his deep connection to the story, saying, “This incredible story moves me deeply. I’m honored to be a part of this powerful story that inspired me, and I think it will inspire you, too.”

Legendary filmmaker Peter Guber, former chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures, praised the film, stating, “The authenticity of this storyteller shines through. I urge you to experience this film for yourself.”

Vivek Ramaswamy, another executive producer on the project, emphasized, “I think this is one of the most important movies of our time. I don’t care whether you’re on the left or the right or black or white; we can unite around the fact that child slavery and child trafficking are wrong. Take a look at the movie, watch it with your family, and hope you’re able to do something, at least in raising awareness about a problem that we’re not talking about.”

Oscar-winning actress Mira Sorvino said, “There is a very important new film called City of Dreams that brings us into the belly of the beast. And we see how children are exploited for labor trafficking. This story will possibly change your life.”

Emmy-winning actor Martin Sheen also commented, “I urge you to see it because if you’re anything like me, when you see this film, you’re going to want to know how you can help end human trafficking.”

Oscar Winning Producer Michael Phillips praised the film by stating, “ It was beautiful filmmaking, beautiful performances, and a very touching story.”

Yalitza Aparicio, Academy Award-nominated actress for her role in “ROMA,” echoed these sentiments, adding, “Please help us fight for the freedom of the innocent children.”

City of Dreams has garnered the support of some of the most influential leaders in the world, who are lending their voices to amplify the message of those who cannot speak for themselves. These leaders have become “Ambassadors of Freedom,” helping to raise awareness and galvanize a global movement against child trafficking.

Below is a list of the Ambassadors of the movie’s mission to end child trafficking, along with links to the heartfelt videos they created to promote this critical cause:

MOVIES AS A FORCE FOR GOOD: JOHN DEVANEY’S DONATION

John Devaney, founder of United Capital and Manor House Films, played a crucial role in making this historic event possible. Devaney donated $1 million to raise awareness and provide complimentary premiere passes to give to individuals and groups, including anti-trafficking organizations, survivors, schools, churches, and people who may otherwise not have been able to afford to watch the film.

“There’s nothing more important to me and my family than protecting and saving innocent children from slavery,” said John Devaney. “And there’s no better way to raise awareness about this critical cause than through this powerful and inspirational film.”

ABOUT “CITY OF DREAMS”

City of Dreams is an inspiring true story about a boy’s courageous battle to free himself and others from the brutal grasp of slavery. Inspired by true events, the film chronicles the journey of Jesús, a young Mexican boy whose dreams of becoming a soccer star are shattered when he’s kidnapped, trafficked across the border, and sold into slavery in downtown Los Angeles.

Jesús is thrown into the underworld of captivity, where survival hinges on enduring grueling work schedules and navigating the brutality of his captors. Living in servitude to ruthless traffickers, under the threat of the powerful El Jefe (Alfredo Castro), alongside fellow victims, including the resilient Elena (Renata Vaca) and Carlitos (Golden Globe Nominee Diego Calva), Jesús navigates a world of exploitation and despair with the determination to escape the brutal grasp of slavery. Realizing that his only hope for freedom is to make a daring escape, this is the story of one boy who fought back.

The film is written and directed by veteran producer Mohit Ramchandani, marking his feature directorial debut. The movie stars newcomer Ari Lopez as Jesús, with supporting performances by Alfredo Castro, Renata Vaca, and Golden Globe nominee Diego Calva. The film’s theme song, performed by Luis Fonsi and written by hall-of-fame songwriter Linda Perry, adds emotional depth to the narrative.

City of Dreams is executive-produced by Tony Robbins, Sylvester Stallone, Luis Fonsi, Linda Perry, Vivek Ramaswamy, Prince Royce, Pat Riley, Mira Sorvino, Pattie Mallette, Martin Sheen, Enrique Santos (President of iHeart), Yalitza Aparicio (“ROMA”), Luis Mandoki (“When a Man Loves a Woman,” “Message in a Bottle,” and “Angel Eyes”), Michael Phillips (“Taxi Driver,” “Close Encounters,” “The Sting”), and John Devaney. The film is produced by Sean Wolfington (“Sound of Freedom”), Jon Graham, Rufus Parker, and Matthew Diezel.

City of Dreams shines a bright light on the dark underbelly of child slavery in America and aims to inspire audiences to join the fight against this horrific reality. Distributed by Roadside Attractions, the film opened nationwide on Labor Day weekend.

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