LUMINA

"Gino McKoy is a little bit of a genius. He’s a wise old soul, and he’s got the patience of a man who’s done 150 movies. He’s very kind. I’ve worked with every kind of director there is, and my new favorite kind of director is the new, young, bright mind - and they’re out there. They weren’t taught to direct by watching television. They were taught to direct by watching movies.  He’s going to take us someplace, too, this young man - Gino. He’s special."

"[The LUMINA director's cut is] unheard of - completely unheard of. It’s already great. 10 weeks is the normal time - we’ve done it in 5 days, so I would say that is definitely a record. Unbelievable. It’s amazing - it was in great shape before we started. Gino McKoy's eye for detail and recollection of shots and angles is exactly like that of Ridley Scott."

"The first impression that I got from Gino McKoy was his knowledge of film. Then when he began to direct the actors, that’s when I was extremely impressed. He knew how to speak to an actor, and he did his homework. He understood the process. Every time he’d redirect an actor, it would be so incredible…he hit all the beats. He’s got such a sweet nature about him - yet strong. I thought, 'this is gonna be great.' Gino began to understand each particular actor…and how they got to where they were. I thought that was really another important item he hit on when he discussed the role with them."

"Working with Gino McKoy was such a joy. Gino is a great director, and he’s just put together the best team, to be honest. For me, as a professional, it was a blessing to have them on my side….I’m truly thankful to bring this project to life together with  them."

"Gino McKoy is so laid back as a director. It’s great. He really gives us the space to sit in our character a bit and flow...I’m so appreciative of that, it’s rare when you find a director to give actors the space to just play around. Working with Gino, I go back to the word gratitude. Gino has been very blessed and very fortunate and I’m so happy that his first major Hollywood film involved us, I’m so happy he trusts us to be part of this journey with him. He’s going to go and do great things in his career. LUMINA is something that will forever live in our hearts."

"Gino McKoy is an actor’s director. He’s giving us space to develop and grow and make choices. It’s his script, and he’s directing - he’s close to it in a way nobody else is. As an actor, that’s the dream, it’s a real privilege. He’s cast some very talented people who are a pleasure to work with. [Working on LUMINA has] been a dream, to be honest with you."

"Meeting Gino, he’s such a pleasure to work with. He knows his vision, he knows what he wants and it’s great that he wrote the script and is directing it - so he’s out here to guide. He’s amazing - amazing."

"Gino McKoy is very smart, and he’s a very genuine guy. I think what he’s doing with LUMINA - he’s got such a clear vision, which I admire."

"Gino McKoy is extremely agile and experimental. It takes a lot of guts to make certain sets - I don’t think you’re going to see another one like LUMINA. It’s very exciting...Knowing that most people would pull back, Gino leans in. It’s been a good time with Gino. I will say LUMINA is special and it’s dear to my heart. I’m very, very happy with it."

"Gino McKoy has a good eye on set. His vision was unique. This is why I worked hard to get his vision done. LUMINA is the first [science fiction] film done in Morocco. To get to space, to the moon - this is unbelievable. LUMINA is the top of the top."

"[Gino McKoy is] an immensely talented musician, screenwriter, and director...world-class..."

"Gino McKoy is a rarity, a multi-talented visionary with the innate gifts to make an impact on not only music but also on Hollywood."