ILEGALES marks Ric Dupont's directorial debut. He has been involved in short films, documentary and reality television production, as well as television news for the last 14 years. Working in the media has given him firsthand exposure to the desperation and poverty of many in Mexico. With this film, he sought to capture the sharp contrast between American and Mexican perspectives on border issues and immigration. Several years ago, Ric saw the body of a man who had drowned while trying to make it across the Rio Grande. That haunting image stuck with him throughout filming.