Brooklyn-based filmmaker and artist Eric Spade Rivas is set to release his latest project, The Brooklyn Premiere, in February 2025. This project, a film centered around the real-life events surrounding actor Angel Salazar, known for his role as “Chi Chi” in Scarface, is a testament to Rivas’ deep-rooted connection to both hip-hop and cinema. Born and raised in Brooklyn, Rivas brings his personal story and artistic influences to the forefront with this unique multimedia production.
Rivas, whose real name is Eric Spade Rivas, started his creative journey through graffiti, adopting “Spade” as his tag. That early artistry has evolved, with Rivas now known for his work across film and music. When asked about his musical influences, Rivas credits a wide array of artists, from Prince and Nirvana to hip-hop legends like Rakim, Melle Mel, and Wu-Tang Clan.
The highlight of The Brooklyn Premiere is its soundtrack, featuring three legendary rappers. Melle Mel, Grand Puba, and Cappadonna of Wu-Tang Clan—on a track produced by Son of Sam. “I assembled three legends to rap on the beat,” Rivas explains, noting how their verses help summarize the film’s storyline. Melle Mel and Grand Puba have already filmed their parts for the music video, which was shot using innovative Ray-Ban Wayfarer video glasses. Thus, giving the project an up-close, immersive feel. Rivas is awaiting Cappadonna’s final verse to complete the video.
Eric Spade Rivas – The Brooklyn Premiere
The project is close to Rivas’ heart. Not only because of the involvement of these iconic artists but also due to the personal connection to the story. He initially intended to collaborate with Stephen Bauer (who played “Manolo” in Scarface) and Angel Salazar to spoof elements of the famous film. However, the project has since grown into something more. Moreover, blending elements of Rivas’ own experiences in New York City’s underground culture during the ’70s and ’80s.
In addition to The Brooklyn Premiere, Rivas is working on a new film about his life as a Nuyorican growing up in Brooklyn during the same era. “The movie will showcase a raw side of NYC, filled with breakdancing, sheepskin coats, and street battles. Things you haven’t seen before on screen,” he shares.
As for his overarching message? Rivas emphasizes the indelible mark left by the originators of rap. “You can try to recreate or change its cadence, but in the end, the old-school rappers have done it all,” he says. Highlighting the timelessness of the pioneers he’s enlisted to help bring his vision to life.
To stay updated on Eric Spade Rivas’ work, you can follow him on Instagram @thebrooklynpremiere and Facebook here. With The Brooklyn Premiere and his upcoming autobiographical film, Rivas continues to push boundaries, merging old-school hip-hop with contemporary storytelling.
