Actresses Deyra Barrera and Mireya Limon recently stated that they were excited to play the role of Jenni Rivera in the planned biopic "La Diva de la Banda."
During their first press conference, the two actresses told the press that they were very happy to be playing such an iconic legend. Barrera stated that she was happy for the opportunity and that she had a big responsibility. She added that she would respect the role and do the best work possible. Limon also said that she was thrilled and that the responsibility was immense.
Aside from talking to the media, the two actresses had their pictures taken and were dressed similar to Rivera.
Limon and Barrera beat out 8,000 candidates who auditioned for the role as well as famed actresses Angelica Vale and Alicia Machado. According to reports they are new actors who have no acting experience and come from middle class families.
Francisco Joel Mendoza will direct the controversial film, which the Rivera family is firmly against. The deceased diva's relatives feel that they are the only individuals with the rights to make the film. The family members have also questioned whether Rivera had ever met Mendoza and asserted that the deceased singer's sister Rosie never authorized the director to make a movie about "La Diva de la Banda."
Mendoza recently revealed a document that was signed by Rivera and gave him authorization to make the movie. He also stated that he knew the family would not approve but was ready to confront any legal issues and even go to jail.
"La Diva de la Banda" is slated to start shooting in July. According to reports the film will contain 80% of Rivera's life and will also have fictionalized events. The film is slated to cost $14 million dollars and will then hit theaters on December 6th in Mexico. Mendoza also expects a DVD immediately in order to expand the audience.