- George Chung
- Nov 16, 2024
- 2 min read
Jewelianna Ramos-Ortiz, the powerhouse stunt performer and actress famed for her role as Maria Alvarez in Netflix’s Cobra Kai, has taken the spotlight once again—this time at the Rome International Film Festival (RIFF).
Ramos-Ortiz earned accolades for her electrifying performance in the action-packed short film The Humming Grows, which snagged the coveted Sylvia Jury Award for Best Latin Short.
Known for portraying the captain of Spain's karate team in Cobra Kai Season 6 Part 2, Ramos-Ortiz seamlessly blends jaw-dropping physical prowess with heartfelt emotion, further cementing her status as a rising action star. The new season, debuting November 15, 2024, brings her talent to a global audience while highlighting the power of authentic Latin representation in martial arts entertainment.
An Unstoppable Force in Film
The Humming Grows premiered at the historic DeSoto Theatre during RIFF’s Latin Shorts and After Dark Shorts series, captivating audiences with its themes of redemption and identity. Ramos-Ortiz’s portrayal as a lead stuntwoman broke ground in a genre where Latina martial artists are sorely underrepresented. Her dynamic performance not only earned widespread acclaim but also highlighted the essential role of diverse storytelling in reshaping action cinema.
“The Humming Grows means so much to me because they were the first people to really see that in me, really before anything else,” shared Ramos-Ortiz. “It was equally as professional as any multi-million-dollar set I step onto.”
Behind the scenes, the collaboration between Ramos-Ortiz and Justin Ortiz—the film’s stunt coordinator and her Cobra Kai co-star—showcased the strength of Georgia’s flourishing film community. Ortiz, who also plays Spain’s men’s team captain Diego in Cobra Kai, brought his expertise to The Humming Grows, solidifying the project’s standing as a standout production.
Georgia: The Rising Star of Film
Produced entirely in Georgia, The Humming Grows exemplifies the state’s emergence as a creative hub. Combining local talent with world-class film resources, the short film highlights how independent productions can leave an indelible mark on the global festival circuit. Ramos-Ortiz’s achievements bring further recognition to Georgia’s role in fostering groundbreaking projects that elevate diverse voices.
An Industry Trailblazer
During RIFF, Ramos-Ortiz held a riveting panel at PAM Studios titled “A Conversation with Jewelianna Ramos-Ortiz,” where she reflected on her career trajectory. Sharing anecdotes from working with legendary director Tim Burton and actress Jenna Ortega, she offered inspiration to a packed audience of seasoned professionals and aspiring artists alike.
Her dual triumphs in Cobra Kai and The Humming Grows underscore a career built on authenticity, grit, and a commitment to empowering representation. As the Georgia film industry continues to flourish, Ramos-Ortiz’s work serves as a beacon for the next generation of filmmakers and actors.
Breaking Barriers, One Action Scene at a Time
Jewelianna Ramos-Ortiz is not just a performer; she’s a pioneer reshaping the narrative for Latinas in action films. With her groundbreaking performances and dedication to authentic storytelling, she’s carving a path that proves the power of diverse voices in cinema. As Cobra Kai and The Humming Grows captivate audiences worldwide, Ramos-Ortiz’s star continues to rise—and she’s just getting started.
