As spooky season is upon us, we’d like to turn to the words of wise man who once said, “It’s Halloween. Everyone’s entitled to one good scare.” But in this case, let’s sub out scare for fun. Considering the film in question, and one of its lead actors, fun is an understatement. We got to speak with Efren Ramirez about his work on Seven Cemeteries. The Danny Trejo-led film is a take on an iconic western wherein a rag-tag band of zombified hired guns help protect the innocent against a deadly serious drug lord.
Ahead of the film’s release, we sat with the actor/producer/DJ about what’s going on in his world. In short, it’s a lot. Many will know Ramirez as “Pedro” from Napoleon Dynamite. But since starring in that cult classic, he’s turned his eye to many aspects of the entertainment world. Not content to solely be a player on screen, Ramirez thinks big picture. Getting involved in the production and other creative aspects, he’s able to help craft and take ownership of whatever project he has his sights on.
But don’t let the glasses or quasi-serious gaze fool you. He’s quick to have a laugh at pretty much anything which makes him a real joy to speak with. During our interview, it was surprising to hear the level of care and attention he puts into and invests in the role. And while we might not realize it, there’s a lot more depth to a character than we will ever understand. Hearing those stories is pretty eye opining. Ramirez may play undead, but “Miguel” has lots to offer (and there is NO way he’s 51 in real life). The caliber of thought to his decisions, even in cartoonish situations, bleeds off the screen.
While aimed at being a comedy (specifically one that is channeling the Magnificent Seven), this film has more to offer than a one-dimensional story on a familiar framework. That is thanks to the array of characters as well as their external and internal interactions. John Gulager and team play things fast and loose, and this is well paced which doesn’t let exposition bog things down. Full of colorful actors, clever kills and singing luchadores, the fun factor is high. Enjoy this exchange with Efren on The GoSeeTalk Podcast Experience and check out Seven Cemeteries!
A recent parolee (Danny Trejo) gets a Mexican witch to resurrect his old posse so that they can help him save a woman’s ranch from a ruthless drug lord.
SEVEN CEMETERIES is set for release on October 11.
