Freddy Rodriguez made the most of his time off from ABC’s Ugly Betty (he’s Gio, the sandwich seller) by celebrating Christmas a little early.

He went home to Chicago to executive-produce and star in Humboldt Park, a holiday-themed comedy-drama due in November about a family reunion set in the Puerto Rican community. Rodriguez and producer Bob Teitel (Barber Shop) “wanted to make the first Christmas movie that centered on a Latin family,” says the actor, 33. “Bob had success in making Soul Food into an American movie, and we hope to bring that magic to our movie.”

He plays a soldier just back from Iraq who rejoins his brother (John Leguizamo) and sister (Vanessa Ferlito) at the home of their parents (Alfred Molina, Elizabeth Peña). “Dysfunctionality ensues,” he says.

As with most ethnic traditions, feasting is a must. The menu includes pasteles, “boiled meat pies with grated green bananas.” For dessert, “there is flan and a bread pudding called budin.”

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