Remake of Classic Indie Gangster Flick Premieres in NYC

The original Japanese Borscht film was shot on a vacation camera and starred mostly unknown actors. “It was the first film I ever made,” explains director Eric Rivas. “At the time, I was a young actor, finding it tough to land acting jobs. Directors would see my last name, call me in for an audition, but pass me up because while my last name was Hispanic, I didn’t look Hispanic enough.”

So he decided to cast himself in his own movie. Japanese Borscht became an indie classic and fifteen years later, its remake will premiere at Anthology Film Archives (32 2nd Ave) on Saturday.

The updated version includes original cast members Ivan Cornejo, Gianluca Camissa, Brandon S Yun and Tee Romero. It also features a bevy of better-known names including Ángel Salazar ("Chi Chi" from Scarface), adult film star Ron Jeremy, gossip columnist Michael Musto and Vamp Bikers Eric Rivas reprising his role as David.

Musto takes over a role originally played by Bob van Lindt. “I play a gay Mafioso named Uncle,” he explains. “He’s barbaric — he’s a mobster — and his sexuality proves that some very rotten people can be gay.”

Sylvia Miles, Academy Award-nominated for her role in Midnight Cowboy, was confirmed to star in the re-make but passed away before filming. She appears in the film through video footage shot by late videographer Nelson Sullivan.

The dramatic film tells the story of David (played by Rivas) who enlists a group of Japanese goodfellas to fight against Ivan (played by Ivan Cornejo) and his gangster pals. Angel Salazar brings some comic relief to the film.

A key element in Japanese Borscht is the musical soundtrack from the legendary Trax Records label, published by Ultra Music Group and being distributed by The Orchard, a division of Sony Entertainment. Featured acts include Parliament P Funk, Melle Mel, Wildstreet, Prince Culture, Michael Musto, Screamin Rachael and Hip-Hop composer Sonofsam.

Tickets for the October 5 screening of Japanese Borscht are available at the Anthology Film Archives box office.