Local filmmaker Israel Luna is set to debut a new series that promises both comedy and drama, entitled ‘The Gayborhood.’
Co-created with Joseph Herrera, this six-part episodic series is a reflection of their lives and experiences, set in the heart of Oak Lawn, Dallas.
The show is scheduled to premiere on YouTube on June 27, accompanied by a theatrical screening and premiere party at Studio Movie Grill in Dallas on June 24.
In discussing the project’s development, Luna expressed the enjoyment he found in writing, emphasizing the series focuses on representation within the LGBTQ+ community.
“This has been fun to write,” Luna remarked. “It’s all about the gays. It has as much representation as possible in this group of friends and coworkers.”
Looking back on his roots in storytelling, Luna drew inspiration from a show he created during the ’90s on cable access.
“That show was called Boobs, Boys and High Heels, and we did a couple of episodes. We were throwing around ideas, but that show became an inspiration for me to do this one,” he recalled.
Having evolved as a filmmaker, Luna approached this new series with a fresh perspective and a wider range of resources.
His collaboration with Dallas Voice publisher Leo Cusimano was pivotal in bringing ‘The Gayborhood’ to fruition.
“For Cusimano, this project aligned perfectly with Dallas Voice’s mission of serving as a platform for the community.
“It also allows Dallas Voice to expand its digital presence, which is important for us,” he added.
Cusimano shared his enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “I’ve known and respected Israel Luna for years. His talent, storytelling instincts, and unique voice are undeniable… When he approached me about ‘The Gayborhood,’ I immediately saw the potential for something special.”
He continued, emphasizing the dual role of the project as an entertainment piece and a smart business strategy to enhance Dallas Voice’s presence on YouTube.
With budgets confined to indie film standards, the show’s production required careful planning and creative use of resources.
“There’s a limited budget — like, really limited. So we watched the number of locations, and ultimately, I made the show based around the studio,” Luna explained.
The series’ premise revolves around Bruce, who is both a studio owner during the day and a drag queen named Heather Hardin at night.
The ensemble cast primarily consists of Bruce’s employees, including a podcaster, an assistant manager, and a handyman, alongside several recurring characters.
Luna is excited to feature a diverse range of eight local actors, including Richard Curtin, with whom he has collaborated on multiple occasions in the past.
“He will do whatever is required of his character,” Luna said, praising Curtin’s dedication to acting.
Other cast members include Danny Venegas, Opie Ryan, Trevor Vanarsdale, Brent Fields, Basil Ramos-Ahued, Sam Preece, and Angel Rose Keeley, many of whom are new talents Luna encountered during auditions.
“This cast though is just so good, I had to put them in. It makes me so happy to have them in this show,” he expressed.
Luna acknowledged learning through the casting process, particularly with actor Opie Ryan identifying as nonbinary.
Although Ryan auditioned for a role initially written as a lesbian character, Luna found that Ryan was ideal for the part and decided to rewrite it to reflect their identity.
“I thought this was a good learning experience for me to explore the character this way. They expressed their appreciation, which was so cool. I’m glad to be part of maybe changing or adding to that dialogue,” Luna remarked.
Representation is not just a theme but an essential part of the series for both Luna and Herrera.
The significant catalyst for moving forward with the project was the upcoming 2024 presidential election.
“After you-know-who was put into office — I can’t even say his name — we had to represent,” Luna stated firmly.
He emphasized the urgency for visibility and representation within the LGBTQ+ community, saying, “We need to take up as much space as possible and flood the airwaves with everything queer. We have to let them know we’re not going anywhere.”
Cusimano echoed this sentiment, noting that working with Luna on a project that explores the lives of colorful, diverse, and meaningful individuals sounded exciting and aligned perfectly with their goals.
As the premiere dates approach, excitement builds around ‘The Gayborhood,’ which promises to be a vibrant depiction of community life for LGBTQ+ individuals in Dallas.
image source from：dallasvoice
