Demián Bichir is expanding his profile in Hollywood…

The 49-year-old Mexican actor, who will be starring in FX’s new series The Bridge, is set to make his debut as a screenwriter and director on the independent film Refugio.

The film tells the story of a young dreamer, born in the circus, who embarks on a search to find his long lost true love. An emotional journey from boyhood to manhood, from Mexico to the United States, the film is about hope, redemption and fate.

The Oscar-nominated actor, who next stars in the Paul Feig-directed Fox/Chernin Entertainment comedy The Heat with Melissa McCarthy and Sandra Bullock, is also part of the ensemble of Machete Kills.

Principal photography will begin on Refugio this fall in the U.S. and Mexico.