Amadeus Pictures is lining up a July start in Los Angeles for its action adventure Mexican Gangster starring company founder and president Damian Chapa.

Mexican Gangster is based on the true story of Johnny Sun, an ex-con who struggles to break free from his former life of crime.

Christine Manoukian, Romanian newcomer Ion Muj, William Bailey and Monica Ramon round out the key cast.

Amadeus and Ricco Chapa are serving as executive producers with Chapa and Christine Manoukian producing.

'I made my debut in this business starring in the film Blood In Blood Out, directed by Taylor Hackford, which has become a cult classic around the world,' Chapa said. 'I believe Mexican Gangster will have a similar reception among world film audiences and I am proud to bring this true story to the screen.'

Chapa's credits include Under Siege, Street Fighter and Money Talks.