Rudy Mancuso and Camila Mendes, both with Brazilian roots, star in the rom-com ‘Música’

 “Música” is scheduled to be released by Amazon Prime Video on April 4, 2024

In the vibrant streets of Newark’s Ironbound neighborhood, where cultures collide and rhythms reverberate, a young American-Brazilian street performer named Rudy Mancuso finds his beat. Rudy, portrayed by the charismatic Mancuso himself, possesses a unique perspective on the world, courtesy of his rare condition called synesthesia. This neurological phenomenon transforms everyday noises into intricate rhythms, an aspect of his character that sets the stage for a captivating tale.

When he’s not captivating commuters with puppet performances or juggling college classes, Rudy navigates the complexities of life. His girlfriend, Haley (played by Francesca Reale), yearns for stability, while his mother, Maria (portrayed by Mancuso’s real-life mother, Maria Mancuso), urges him to embrace his Brazilian heritage. Amidst these pressures, Rudy seeks solace in the streets and confides in his best friend, Anwar (played by comedian J.B. Smoove), whose cultural identity shifts with the location of his food truck.

But Rudy’s world takes an unexpected turn when a chance encounter brings Isabella (Camila Mendes) into his life. A vivacious Brazilian-American woman working in the local fish market, Isabella sees Rudy in a way no one else does. As their connection deepens, Rudy finds himself entangled in a love triangle that tests his allegiance to culture, tradition, and the music pulsating within him.

Directed, co-written, and starring Mancuso, “Música” is more than a run-of-the-mill romantic comedy. Rooted in his own experiences with synesthesia, the film resonates with authenticity, weaving together themes of love, identity, and the pursuit of passion. Mancuso’s chemistry with Mendes, both on and off-screen, infuses the story with palpable energy, while Smoove’s comedic prowess adds a delightful flair to the narrative.

With “Música,” Mancuso emerges as a multifaceted talent to watch, seamlessly blending his roles as filmmaker, actor, and musician. As the credits roll, it’s evident that “Música” is a symphony of sights and sounds that leaves a lasting impression on both heart and soul.