Celaya is preparing to receive the Hollywood spotlight, as it will be the main location for a new film production starring American actor and producer Luke Wilson. The actor visited the municipality on Tuesday, April 22, to see some of the filming locations for the movie, tentatively titled "Juárez Nine."

During his visit, Wilson was accompanied by producer Maurice Fadida and part of the production team. They toured several iconic spots in the city’s historic center, such as the Templo del Carmen, the Octavio Ocampo Art Museum, the iconic Bola del Agua, Calzada Independencia, the Jardín Principal, and the Ciro Soto Lara baseball stadium.

They also held a meeting with the mayor, Juan Miguel Ramírez Sánchez, who emphasized that this production represents a great opportunity to position Celaya as a tourist and film destination. "This project will bring significant economic benefits to the city," he said, detailing that filming will involve the arrival of at least 15 actors and a crew of more than 100 people, who will require lodging, food, and transportation, in addition to creating temporary jobs.

Jan Suter, a Mexican producer also involved in the project, reported that pre-production will begin between June and July, while filming will begin in September and last approximately four months.

Carlos Olvera, director of the Celaya Tourism Council, emphasized that this production will showcase the city’s cultural, historical, and architectural richness to the world. He emphasized that this will boost tourism and directly benefit local hotels, restaurants, and businesses.

Although this is an American production, it was announced that 90% of the cast will be Mexican actors. Additionally, it was announced that there will be a casting call to include Celaya talent, both in roles and as extras. Calls will be announced soon.

Regarding the story, the producers revealed that the film will tell the story of a retired Major League Baseball player from the United States who is invited to Mexico by a friend and, during his stay, experiences a series of adventures.

During his tour of Celaya, Luke Wilson was approachable and smiling as people approached him to greet him or ask for a photo. The actor expressed his enthusiasm for starting filming and praised the architecture of the historic center, as well as the warmth of the people.

He also confirmed that the project will feature the participation of Scott Eastwood, son of renowned director and actor Clint Eastwood. Although Scott was not present during this visit, he is expected to arrive in Celaya in the coming weeks to tour the locations.

With this film project, Celaya is emerging as a new destination on the international film map, bringing its essence to the general public and contributing to local economic development.