LOS ANGELES - TelAve -- Ernie Rivera, a trained actor and emerging screenwriter, is making waves with his feature film Citadel Lost—a grounded, psychological action-thriller that blends superhero tragedy with emotional realism. Currently submitted to top screenwriting competitions including the Nicholl Fellowship, Austin Film Festival, Slamdance, and PAGE Awards, Citadel Lost has already begun attracting early buzz.

Described as Logan meets The Exorcist, Citadel Lost explores themes of masculinity, legacy, faith, and the weaponization of memory. The story centers on a war-hero-turned-super-soldier who must confront his haunted past when his family is attacked inside a remote bunker. With dream casting that includes Anna Kendrick and Oscar Isaac, Rivera has taken a hands-on approach to every element of development.

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In a bold move, Rivera is self-funding a proof-of-concept shoot in June 2025 while undergoing a full physical transformation to portray lead character Jacob Marcos. "This isn't just a film—it's my proving ground," Rivera states. "It's everything I've lived and fought for, crystallized into one story."

The campaign is multi-pronged: a dedicated website, social media rollout, a black box theater monologue, canyon teaser, and a press push that includes Voyage LA and independent horror media coverage. Rivera's pitch deck outlines potential for expansion into sequels, limited series, and even a Broadway-style musical adaptation.

Visit: www.CitadelLostFilm.com
Press Contact: CitadelLostFilm@gmail.com
Social Media: @CitadelLostFilm on Instagram, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter)