WATCH NOW
Watch on the app
WATCH: In-Depth with Kristian Mercado: ‘If You Were the Last’ Hits Peacock
Kristian Mercado emerges as a rising star in the world of talented directors, and his exclusive interview with LATV promises a deep dive into the making of his feature film debut, “If You Were the Last,” now streaming on Peacock. This interview not only explores the details of Mercado’s latest creation but also sheds light on his unique filmmaking style and commitment to diversity and inclusion in the film and TV industry.
“If You Were the Last” has been critically acclaimed, earning an impressive 86% Rotten Tomatoes score. Mercado’s film joins the ranks of two other notable Puerto Rican directors, Angel Manuel Soto and Aristotle Torres, whose major feature films were released in 2023.
View this post on Instagram
Mercado, an advocate for equity and inclusion in the film and TV space, has been a vocal proponent of “Decolonizing Cinema.” Through his social platforms, he shares insights on how to create an infrastructure that supports creators of color, allowing them to bring original stories to life. His commitment to ethical and equitable filmmaking resonates strongly in an industry that is gradually awakening to the importance of diverse perspectives.
LATV’s exclusive with Kristian Mercado
On our chat with the filmmaker, hosted by Eliana Reyes, we get a peek into Mercado’s creative process and his commitment to advocating for more inclusivity in the film industry. Mercado talked about his inspiration for the movie, emphasizing his desire to capture real feelings of love. Delving into the collaboration with the talented cast, including Mackie and Chao, Mercado highlighted the importance of vulnerability in creating authentic performances that resonate with audiences.
Beyond the film, Mercado discussed his multifaceted career, spanning shorts, comedy specials, music videos, and now, a feature-length film. He expressed his aspirations to break into television, recognizing the need for more diversity in the industry. Kristian emphasized the importance of building a thriving ecosystem in the film community, promoting equitable opportunities for underrepresented voices.
Known for his advocacy for inclusivity, Mercado believes in challenging the existing hierarchy and fostering a space where diverse storytellers can flourish. The interview showcases his passion for storytelling that goes beyond traditional boundaries, as seen in his efforts to merge the past and future, creating a cinematic experience that is both nostalgic and futuristic.
Who is Kristian Mercado?
Kristian Mercado’s journey extends beyond his feature film debut. Among his many notable achievements in directing, Mercado has also delved into the realm of comedy specials. He has successfully directed renowned comedians, including Taylor Tomlinson in her outstanding special Look at You and Sam Jay’s 3 in the Morning, both praised for their remarkable direction. Mercado’s collaborations with other comedians include Michael Che, Ilana Glazer, Hannibal Buress, Phoebe Robinson, and Aida Rodriguez on their specials.
Not satisfied with being limited to a single genre or medium, Mercado has also made his mark in short films. His short, Mela, debuted at the 2023 Slamdance Film Festival and masterfully merges social commentary with an exploration of culture, character development, music, dance, and family relationships – all elements that showcase Mercado’s thematic depth.
View this post on Instagram
Raised between New York’s Spanish Harlem and Puerto Rico, Kristian Mercado discovered his passion for the arts at an early age, often using film as a form of escapism. His psychedelic animated short ‘Nuevo Rico‘ debuted at the 2021 SXSW Festival, garnering the prestigious Animation Jury Award, and is currently being developed into a full-length feature film.
Mercado has directed content for Billie Eilish, Bad Bunny, Awkwafina, Eric Andre, Spotify, Adidas, Corona, Miller, Topo Chico, Alienware, De La Soul, MF DOOM, Planned Parenthood, Gatorade, and Adult Swim, among others. He has also solidified a place in today’s comedy scene, directing specials for Michael Che, Ilana Glazer, Taylor Tomlinson, Hannibal Buress, Sam Jay, Phoebe Robinson, and Aida Rodriguez.
With work that has screened at numerous festivals, Mercado has a distinct voice for addressing issues of identity, family, and systemic oppression across race and class. His work is celebrated for its poetic portrayal of working-class struggles and highlighting the gaps between love and loss. Mercado has several scripts in the works, laying vital groundwork for the next phase in his career.
If you were the last
View this post on Instagram
The film follows astronauts Adam (Anthony Mackie) and Jane (Zoë Chao) adrift in their broken-down space shuttle, caught between Jupiter and Saturn with little hope of rescue. Finding ways to pass the time as they become certain that no one is coming to save them, they argue over what to do. One day, Adam poses that maybe they should sleep together; Jane laughs the idea off, but it prompts a flirty debate about whether they’re better off spending their remaining days as friends or something more.
The film, produced by Depth of Field, Pinky Promise & Storm City Films, boasts a stellar cast, including Natalie Morales and Geoff Stults, alongside Mackie and Chao. With a runtime of 92 minutes, “If You Were the Last” is a testament to Mercado’s ability to seamlessly merge profound emotions with Sci-Fi elements, making it a must-watch for cinephiles.
for the latest updates from LatiNation