A Million to Juan (1994) is a romantic comedy film starring comedian Paul Rodriguez. This was also his directorial debut. The story is a modern spin on Mark Twain's story "The Million-Pound Bank Note".
Plot
Juan Lopez (Paul Rodriguez) is a widower with a young son, and who was born in California but was taken back to Mexico by his mother when he was very young.
Yet, he has no documentation to attest to his U.S. citizenship and lives as an undocumented worker in Los Angeles selling oranges near the freeway. He lives with two roommates and tries to make ends meet so he can take care of his little son. He is stressed as he battles landlords and immigration.
A stranger (Edward James Olmos) in a fancy limousine hands over $1,000,000 dollar check to Juan, but there is a catch! He must give the money back, all of it, in one month.
Juan is suspicious and takes the check to his immigration worker (Polly Draper) who encourages him to follow the directions given him.
At first he uses the check to get credit extended at posh clothing stores, a car dealership, and more. He also meets a woman in a dead-end relationship with a bossy businessman.
Then the fun begins for good-natured Juan Lopez, who has to avoid temptations and the greedy people that suddenly pop-up in his life.
Juan comes to realize that the true meaning of life is love, family, and happiness, and that money isn't the answer.
Distribution
The film opened on May 15, 1994 in the United States on a limited release.
After one week the film went straight to video. Box-office sales the only week in circulation were $381,457 in 181 theatres.[1] However, IMDb reports $1,221,832 in box-office receipts.
Cast
Soundtrack
A Latino-themed original soundtrack was released on June 14, 1994 on the RMM Records & Video label, an independent Latin music record company based in New York City. The CD contained fourteen tracks. Performers include: Celia Cruz, Marc Anthony, Aramis Camilo, Marcos Loya, Carla De Leon, John Pena, and others.
See also
References
Notes
External links
