Meet John Anthony Torres | Actor & Filmmaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with John Anthony Torres and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi John Anthony, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I believe the most important factor behind anyones success is resilience. In the Film/TV Industry there is talent everywhere, how ever; it’s how you continue to nourish that talent and endure consistent rejection over long periods of time which makes traction- thus, success. Traction equals progress, progress equals success!The industry is a relationship driven-business, it takes time and it is fluid. Just keep at it, taking nothing personal either. If one door closes, there is definitely a window you can climb through somewhere else… I also strongly believe we need to celebrate all of the small wins as well- it’s the secret to preventing burn out.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m most excited about my current personal projects that are circulating/will begin to circulate in film festivals. I am the Executive Producer, Co Producer, Music Director, Composer, Musician and Lead Actor of my first short film, “Papi”. It’s written and directed by my producing partner, Ashley L. Canfield. Our short film began its journey in February 2024, since then it has been invited to screen at 10 Film Festivals. This includes a North American Premiere at Lincoln Center, as part of the NY African Film Festival. It screened after a Spike Lee produced short film, so that was an honor. Little fun fact, I used to work with Spike Lee on his TV show “She’s Gotta Have It Too” as Anthony Ramos’s stand in, for the season, It was one of those full circle moments for me; also, being a Juilliard M.A.P alumni -I was touched tremendously. “Papi” and I took home Best Actor Award for my role as Hector Jr. in the film. Thanks to the 13th annual Peoples Film Festival, in Harlem NYC. “Papi” was invited to its first Academy Award Qualifying Film Festival in Atlanta, Out on Film Festival, October 2024. It also received its first nomination for “Best Drama” & another “Best Actor ” nomination, thanks to the Mott Haven Film Festival in Bronx, NYC. Also in October 2024.
I have my next short film “Closure” currently being submitted out to film festivals. It’s a Sci-fi thriller, Drama; short film, 8 minutes and 30 seconds. I am the Executive Producer, Co Producer, Music Director, Casting Director and Lead Actor for this one. I’m excited for everyone to see it!
I am also working on a feature film, I am pumped for everyone to see the film and the cast that is slowly falling into place. Keep your eyes peeled for “Everything is Fine”.
The one thing that sets me apart from everyone else is my resilience. If I can’t make it in one way, you best believe I am going to find another way in. If I can’t get in through that way, I’ll strategically wait till I can. Yeah, Im talented but that’s everywhere. Everyone is talented. You need to want something so bad, and make it happen.
Aside from my personal projects, I play the innocent faced killer Diego Pilco in the TV Show “The Perfect Murder”, on ID Network. Keep your eyes peeled for Marvel Studios Upcoming “Ironheart”, you might see a familiar face.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My favorite spots in the city? There are so many! First, Id tell them to check out the North beach area for some sand and sun. Southbeach gets too crowded. I highly recommend a day pass at the Standard Hotel- it’s so lovely. I love Tap42 in midtown for Happy Hour, and right around the corner you’ll find Negroni and SugarCane. They also have great selections for bites and drinks. To top off the night with some dancing, I recommend 1800 Lucky on Fridays. Miami local DJ Oscar G has a dope party there. Great for house music! I also recommend club SPACE for some after hour/late night fun.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Shout out to soooo many people! First off, some Miami locals: Nemesis & Luis Roberto Herrera. Nemesis is a local music producer and talent manager, he also did the scoring for my second short film “Closure” and did the music for my first short film “Papi”. He’s an amazing person, a sonic genius and my cousin. insta:@kidnemesis . Luis Roberto Herrera is a Playwright and Screenwriter. He wrote the short play “Mimo” which is what my second short film “Closure” is inspired by. He’s a magician with words and prose and up & coming in the industry. Be on the look out for him. insta: @fullsizedluis . I’d also like to S/O Ashley L. Canfield, my producing partner, a screen writer and our director. She wrote “Papi” & “Closure”, I wouldn’t be on this filmmaking journey with out her. She’s also a badass mom. I’d also like to thank all of my producers and collaborators: Patricia, Mariama, Nancy, Eddie M., Eddie C., Kyra, Nancy & Giorgio, Carolyn, Elvis, Beckett, Brandi, Michael, Farm to People, Fanny, George Mcguire, Blended City and Wyldchild.

Website: https://canvasrebel.com/meet-john-anthony-torres/

Instagram: @_johnanthonytorres_

Other: https://www.jayteetorres.com

Image Credits
Gareth Shaw
Alec Hartnett
Jason Madras
John Lamparski