SAN ANTONIO – A former Stone Oak Elementary student is crediting his upbringing in the North East Independent School District for his newly-found success after his recent casting in a new Steven Spielberg film.
Nicolas Cantu will star in Spielberg’s upcoming film, “The Fabelmans,” which is based on the director’s own childhood, according to IMDB. He will play the role of one of Spielberg’s childhood friends, according to NEISD.
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“When I got the news that I would be working with Spielberg on this movie, I was, of course, excited. I mean, it’s Steven Spielberg! I remember watching his movies ‘Jaws’ and ‘Jurassic Park’ and talking about them at the lunch table with all my friends from elementary. I’m excited for everyone to see it,” Cantu tells NEISD.
Cantu will also be working alongside renowned actors Michelle Williams and Seth Rogen.
He told NEISD that ever since he was young, he’s wanted to pursue art and his creativity. Now, Cantu is taking those goals and passions to the big screen.
“Ever since a young age, my favorite thing about acting has been being able to dedicate most of my time to art and creativity,” Cantu said in a statement. “It’s always a special thing when you get to live your life doing what you love to do.”
Cantu said his dreams began during his childhood. But, his passion for acting only grew stronger during his time in NEISD, with the help of his teachers.
”I remember my second-grade teacher Mrs. Dromgoole went to see one of the first plays I did at The Magik Theatre,” said Cantu in a statement. “My fifth-grade teacher Mr. Jenn was a big influence on my love of storytelling and comedy. Shoutout to all my other teachers too - Mrs. Boeck, Mrs. Knight, Mrs. Koepke, Mrs. Terrel, and Mrs. Milam. Also, Mrs. Snodgrass and Mrs. Elizondo, my music teachers. Their classes helped break little me out of his shell.”
The film is currently in production and is set to debut sometime next year, according to IMDB.
Cantu has had roles on TV shows as well, including “The Walking Dead: World Beyond,” “The Rookie,” “9-1-1: Lone Star,” “The Unicorn,” and more, according to IMDB.
He has a few words of encouragement for other kids who are striving to follow in his footsteps and pursue a career in acting:
“If any little creative kids are reading this, don’t stop doodling in your notebooks and on the sides of your papers,” said Cantu. “Don’t quit trying to make your friends laugh in class, and don’t give up playing those instruments. Feed the creative side of your brain and get good at what you like.”