Cruz and Gobo’s first film — "Blue Movie," an homage to gay adult's roots in the 1970s — goes into production in late September. A December release is planned.
Erotica legend Zak Spears — largely offscreen since an acclaimed nonsex role in 2004’s “BuckleRoos” — is set to join a cast that includes Dillon Buck, Scott Campbell, CJ Madison, Nick Moretti and Nick Piston, as well as newcomers Adam Herst and Colton Steele.
Cruz debuted in 2006 and has appeared in about 15 features. Earlier this year he won a Best Newcomer Grabby Award and shared a GAYVN Award for Best Group Scene for All Worlds Videos' "Link: The Evolution."
He recently wrote, cast and starred in the Raging Stallion Studios two-parter "Hotter Than Hell."
Gobo's 12 years of experience behind the camera ranges from stints as an editor and videographer to lighting technician and director. Gobo has also occasionally appeared on-camera. His adult career includes past work with Falcon, as well as Hot House Entertainment and Raging Stallion.
Falcon Entertainment's Director of Production, Adam Q. Robinson, and Director of Promotion, Troy Prickett, released a joint statement expressing excitement over the Cruz-Gobo duo.
"The sexually charged energy and meticulous attention to detail of Steve Cruz coupled with the talented technical and videography expertise of Leif Gobo make a perfect fit within our ongoing 'guest director' program," they said. "We are incredibly excited by their passion, creative energy, combined industry experience and commitment to this project."
Cruz told XBIZ the past two years of his life have been "mind-blowing."
"My porn career has been like a rocket ride I could never have anticipated," he said. "I've been so fortunate. This new venture is the icing on a huge multi-layered cake."
Cruz is also a designer, painter and musician.
He said the transition to directing felt like a logical progression.
However, Cruz won't be performing in any of his own films.
"I think I've reached a peak most dream to achieve and I'm satisfied," he said. "If I continue on as a performer I'll pick my projects scrupulously. For now I am taking a break from performing so I can focus all my creative energy into my vision — and make some room for the boys coming up behind.
"I love that I now have a hand in discovering the stars of tomorrow. But I am a performer at heart and I'm full of surprises. So you never know."
