Ray Liotta, the iconic actor known for his performances in “Goodfellas” and “Field of Dreams,” makes his final cinematic appearance this weekend. Liotta, who passed away in 2022 at the age of 67, stars alongside Tyrese Gibson and Scott Eastwood in the thrilling heist film “1992.”

The movie, which hits theaters on Friday, is set during the significant events of April 29, 1992, the day the verdict was delivered in the trial of the officers involved in the brutal beating of Rodney King. Gibson portrays Mercer, a shop owner seeking to protect his son (Christopher Ammanuel) amidst the upheaval of the Los Angeles riots. Concurrently, another father-son duo (Liotta and Eastwood) attempts to steal valuable platinum from Mercer’s store.

According to Gibson, Liotta’s “intensity and seriousness” brought a palpable discomfort to the set, aptly reflecting the uneasy reality of the times. “This was all uncomfortable when it happened,” he notes.

Gibson, 45, who grew up in South LA, recalls the unrest vividly. “Filming was truly uncomfortable, and I anticipate that watching it will be too.” The multifaceted entertainer, who will also launch his new double album, “Beautiful Pain,” this Friday, is open to discussing these topics. “Controversy defines me,” he explains. “I speak about my feelings and share what weighs on my heart.”

‘1992’ faced challenges to reach theaters

While the true events occurring in Los Angeles serve as a backdrop for the heist and father-son narratives, Gibson believes the tensions from this history contributed to studios’ hesitance in taking on the film, especially as the nation continues to grapple with issues of police brutality.

“Experiencing racism is discomforting,” Gibson remarks. “But when it’s part of your daily life, nothing surprises you.”

“I don’t harbor bitterness. Given the many times I’ve called 911 and the police have been there to help me, I can’t label every officer as bad. Unfortunately, the actions of a few tarnish the reputation of many good officers.”

The film ultimately secured distribution through Lionsgate. Gibson, however, perceives a silver lining in the initial reluctance from major studios, thinking their involvement might have detracted from the film’s authenticity.

“When a big studio finances a project, you end up conforming to their demands,” says Gibson. “You wear the outfits they prefer, follow their vision for scenes, and adhere to their timelines and budgets. In retrospect, it appears that divine guidance paved the way.”

Tyrese Gibson reveals surprising favorite film

In promoting “1992,” Tyrese was ready to revisit painful memories from his life as a resident of LA and from America’s past. He believes in finding beauty within trauma, but emphasizes that “not every film needs to be dark.”

“Honestly, my all-time favorite movie is ‘The Notebook,’” he shares. “Every girl I date from the time I saw that film—when I’m genuinely interested, we watch it together.”

“Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams have played a pivotal role in my romantic endeavors—you might not believe it, but they’ve helped me marry twice!”

Gibson has indeed watched the 2004 classic with his current girlfriend, Zelie Timothy, who he has been with for four years, and he’s open to the idea of a third marriage.

“I have a track on my new album called ‘I Would Still Say I Do,’” he comments, referring to his first album since 2015’s “Black Rose.” “I will never turn away from love.”

Ray Liotta’s enduring impact

The legendary Liotta finished filming his scenes for “1992” before his untimely death, which occurred while he was in the Dominican Republic working on another project, “Dangerous Waters,” released last October.

Gibson describes Liotta as “not the most approachable person on set.” He explains, “He made it clear that he was there to conduct business. But that’s part of acting, especially with method actors. If my character clashes with yours, you won’t find us being friendly while filming. I understood where he was coming from.”

Without revealing too much, it’s clear that the characters played by Liotta and Gibson aren’t lifelong pals. Gibson mentions that Liotta had a habit of sitting in his chair and highlighting his script before filming. He wouldn’t even glance at anyone until the moment “Action!” was shouted. Gibson describes the entire experience as a “gift.”

“Man, that change,” Gibson reflects on how Liotta’s intense blue eyes would focus. “Often, there were no words spoken. He enriched my life and blessed us all with his legacy.”