~by Dena Burroughs

THE "MANO" PREMIERE AT THE EGYPTIAN THEATER, HOLLYWOOD, CA - March 3rd, 2008

Monday night was the premiere of the short film "Mano," co-directed and co-produced by Anthony Nardolillo, who also played the part of Victor in the film and through it showed off another talent - his Salsa dancing.

Without giving away much of the plot, the short's 25 minute length is almost equally divided between several scenes of Salsa music and dancing, and a dramatic story of debt and reconciliation.  There was much talk about future plans to develop this short into a feature film.

Other actors in the short include Giancarlo Esposito as "Nino," and Lee Thompson Young as "Machito."  Several local dancers' were part of the film, Christian Oviedo and Yesenia Adame most prominently, with many other faces easily recognizable in the background.

Music wise, Johnny Polanco should have been on the red carpet (but wasn't,) as he shows bright and clear on the film's club scenes, as does Alfredo de la Fe and his incredible violin. 

The "Mano" premiere was followed by an after party in the courtyard of the Egyptian Theater, with the music of Johnny Polanco y su Conjunto Amistad.

Seen within the crowd was Vanessa Williams, probably reminiscing her dance steps with Chayanne of once upon a time, and Jesse Garcia, the hot guy of "Quinceanera." 

Learn more about "Mano" at http://www.manothefilm.com