Exclusive Film News

Production for the indie coming-of-age film, The ditch, has been completed. The film features a talented cast, including Laura Benanti, Carlos Miranda, Chris Diamantopoulos, and newcomer Jagger Rodriguez. The ditch is written and directed by Nicholas Manuel Pino.

Plot and Inspiration

The film is set in 1994, against the backdrop of the US World Cup. It follows the story of 11-year-old Nicky, played by Jagger Rodriguez, who inspires his friends to fall in love with soccer. As Nicky is placed on a competitive team, he must decide whether to focus on winning or keeping the game fun. Director Nicholas Manuel Pino drew inspiration from his own childhood, saying that The ditch is an ode to finding friendship and a love for soccer in unexpected places.

Production and Cast

The ditch was shot in New York and is produced by Bennett Skupp, Brad Rose, and Zach Roth of SCRN Studio, along with Patrick McErlean of McLeahy Films, Emma Steele, and Marcos Sotelo. The film’s cast includes Laura Benanti, known for her roles in No hard feelings and tick, tick… BOOM!, as well as Carlos Miranda, who has appeared in Ward 19 and The bling ring. Chris Diamantopoulos, who has been seen in The boys in the boat and Red notice, also stars in the film. Newcomer Jagger Rodriguez, who has previously appeared in Monsters: The Story of Lyle and Erik Menendez, plays the lead role of Nicky.

Director’s Background

Nicholas Manuel Pino is a Chilean-American filmmaker who made his debut with the music-driven prison drama Bosco, starring Tyrese Gibson and Vivica A. Fox. Bosco was released as a Peacock Original in February 2024. Pino’s experience and passion for storytelling are evident in The ditch, which promises to be a heartwarming and inspiring film about the power of soccer to unite people.

Cast Members’ Previous Work

Laura Benanti has appeared in a range of films and TV shows, including Everything will be great, Somehow pregnant, and Gossip Girl. Carlos Miranda has worked on series like Ward 19 and Life, as well as films like The bling ring and Warrior. Chris Diamantopoulos has been seen in shows like Silicon Valley and Ms. Davis, and has also appeared in films like The boys in the boat and Red notice. Jagger Rodriguez, who plays the lead role of Nicky, has previously appeared in Monsters: The Story of Lyle and Erik Menendez.