Banderas 'Super Mario' Role Pleases Chilean Miners
Antonio Banderas was selected to star as "Super Mario" in the upcoming film "33" about the Chilean miners who were famously trapped underground for 69 days in 2010.
The film will follow the dramatic cave-in at a mine in Chile's Atacama desert and the globally televised rescue of the miners that fascinated millions.
Best known for his roles in "Desperado" and "The Mask of Zorro," Banderas is set to portray miner Mario Sepulveda.
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The producer of "33" Mike Medavoy announced the actor's inclusion to the cast on Sunday during the Cannes Film Festival, according to the Associated Press.
Upon hearing the news, Sepulveda, the real-life miner and charismatic survivor, has given Banderas his approval. The lucky man who was rescued was named "Super Mario" for his charisma and excitement at life after the ordeal.
"I'm very excited and full of anxiety," the miner told AP. "All of my mates are looking forward to this big production."
Furthermore, Sepulveda said that he hopes the Spanish actor will help people to cherish their lives.
"There are people who don't realize the value of what they have next to them," he said. "And after those 69 days we know that there's nothing as important as being alive, being healthy and enjoying the people you love while you're alive."
Sepulveda added that "peace, love, solidarity and teamwork" helped him and fellow survivors through the lengthy entrapment.
"Banderas is very charismatic," the miner noted. "I like him a lot and I think this movie is going to make him even more famous than he already is."
When the 33 miners were rescued on Oct. 13, 2011, they were received as heroes. They were sent on free trips to the Greek Islands, Spain, and even Disney World.
However, one year after the 33 miners became famous after their rescue, many found themselves living in poverty, unable to find work and suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.
Despite the hardship, Sepulveda is an electrician and also earns a living by giving motivational speeches.
"I'm thankful for things in life," said Sepulveda. "Some are good, others bad, but God gave us another chance … The door that was opened for us is huge."
Production for "33" is scheduled to begin this fall in Chile, according to Variety magazine. Actors Martin Sheen and Rodrigo Santoro are also attached to the film, which will be directed by Patricia Riggen.
