``EMPIRE'' Premieres in Hollywood; Feature Film's Star John Leguizamo is Expected to Attend, Along With Jimmy Smits, Denise Richards and Ruben Blades, Who Wrote the Film's Score.

Entertainment Editors

HOLLYWOOD--(ENTERTAINMENT WIRE)--Feb. 11, 2002

Leading Industry Professionals Including Moctezuma Esparza Will

Also be Attending

LEMI (the Latino Entertainment Media Institute) is hosting the L.A. premiere of "EMPIRE," Tuesday February 12, 2002, at 5 p.m. at the Laemmle Sunset 5, 8100 Sunset Blvd. The film starring John Leguizamo, which compares the drug trafficking world to Wall Street, created a buzz at the 2002 Sundance Film Festival. Leguizamo and several other stars are expected to attend, including Jimmy Smits, Denise Richards and Ruben Blades, who wrote the score for the film. Members of the general public are invited to attend. A Q&A and reception hosted by the Conga Room will follow the screening.

Writer/director Franc Reyes will participate in the Q&A and will attend the reception along with producers and other cast members. Other special invited guests include Leonardo DiCaprio, Toby McGuire and Andy Garcia.

The cost to the general public is $5 for pre-registrants and $8 at the door, including the 7 p.m. networking reception at the Conga Room. Those who miss the screening can still attend the reception. Register at [e-mail] or 310/860-5191.

LEMI is a non-profit organization founded in 1997 to provide through various educational means the knowledge necessary for Latinos and others, regardless of race, color or religion, to gain access to the entertainment media and communications industry in the U.S. and international market place.