The character Dora, the Explorer turns 25 in 2025 without losing the charm or curiosity that captured the attention of several generations of children worldwide and made her an icon for the Latin community. Now, she gets a new live-action movie, Dora and the Search for the Golden Sun, at a time when this audience is dealing with anti-immigration policies.
Donald Trump
in the United States.
Samantha Lorraine, who plays Dora in the feature film, understands the importance of launching a project like Sol Dorado to inspire those who need positivity the most. “It’s a surreal experience. I just kept thinking, ‘Wow, we’re really representing the Latin community,’ and it’s an honor to carry that responsibility,” the actress appreciates in an exclusive interview with
TV News
.
We are continuing a very big legacy with Dora, and I think the sense of community is the most important thing right now. We need to come together and show love and care for one another, and welcoming others is something we need in order to continue being a strong community.
Because it is a project aimed at a young audience, political issues are obviously not the main focus of the movie. However, it’s undeniable that having a Latina character in a leading role provides a reflection for an audience that doesn’t always see itself represented on TV and in movies.
“This is what we work for, so that children can watch the movie and say, ‘Wow, she looks like me’ or ‘I can do that someday too.’ This is the vision I have of Dora, and this is what she is, in short. Dora is that light, that positivity, that pillar of hope and leadership, and I will always be grateful for having the chance to portray her,” emphasizes Samantha.
“I think it’s essential to have positive examples of Latinos in the media now, and to know that we can watch something that brings us joy and happiness to take back to our community,” concludes Mariana Garzón Toro, who plays Naiya, Diego’s (Jacob Rodriguez) girlfriend and one of the new characters in the film.
And we need to appreciate the fact that we filmed in Colombia, with a local crew there, and with a cast entirely composed of Hispanic actors. You don’t see many projects like this in the industry, and perhaps we might never have another one again, who knows?” Rodriguez challenges. “But I think this experience of being surrounded by Latinos was very special and something I’ll carry with me for life.
The movie’s cast consists of Hispanic-origin actors.
Dora and the Search for the Golden Sun takes place several years after the character’s animated series. Thus, the protagonist and her cousin, Diego, are now nearly adults, and they set off with their friends on a brand-new adventure through the Amazon rainforest, where they attempt to find the ancient treasure of the Golden Sun—before it falls into the wrong hands.
The opportunity to bring such iconic heroes to life did not go unnoticed by the actors. “When I put on Diego’s clothes, grabbed his backpack and embodied all of that, it was crazy. The kids would see us in the studio and freak out (laughs). I had never played someone who had such an impact on other people’s lives, and realizing how much Diego still serves as an example today made me dedicate myself even more to the role,” says Jacob Rodriguez.
I still think I’m in that moment of thinking: ‘Is this really happening? Is this my life? Somebody pinch me!’ (laughs). I’ll have to wake up someday, you know?”, jokes Samantha. “I’ve had the chance to play amazing roles in very special projects, but this one is my favorite.
Dora and the Golden Sun Quest enters the streaming catalog
Paramount+
this Friday (4) and will also be shown on
Nickelodeon
on Saturday (5th), at 12h. Watch the live-action movie trailer:
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