From Colombia to Albuquerque: Carlos Manuel Vesga's Journey as the Resilient Immigrant, Manousos

In the gripping sci-fi drama "Pluribus," Emmy-nominated actor Carlos Manuel Vesga masterfully portrays the unyielding immigrant, Manousos. Hailing from Colombia and now residing in Paraguay, Manousos finds himself in a world where aliens have united humanity into one collective consciousness, a phenomenon known as "the joining." Much like Carol (Rhea Seehorn), Manousos is among the select few who remain unjoined, vehemently resisting this new reality. According to Vesga, Manousos' backstory encompasses the emotional turmoil of leaving his homeland, severing his roots, and attempting to forge a new identity in an alien land. This experience shapes his fierce opposition towards "the joining" – having already experienced loss, he vows not to succumb again. Another defining aspect of Manousos is his tenacious work ethic, reminiscent of many immigrants. The production team paid meticulous attention to detail, even creating a popular Colombian game called frog for Manous' office, adorning it with the Colombian flag. This small touch instantly made Vesga feel connected to home, thousands of miles away. Though Manousos carries a Virgin Mary symbol in his car, he may not be religious – Catholicism is simply part of his identity. Vesga believes that Manousos could harbor faith, especially in Carol, whom he trusts implicitly and aims to locate in Albuquerque to save the world from "the joining." Manousos' quest for Carol takes on a pilgrimage-like quality as he teaches himself English, repetition of basic phrases becoming his mantra. As he embarks on this journey, Manousos draws parallels with medieval pilgrims, reciting their mantras and repeating rosary beads to achieve a trance-like state. His focus is maintained by continually repeating the English phrases he is learning: "Today is Monday, tomorrow will be Tuesday," or "The yellow dog chases the gray cat" or "My name is Manousos Oviedo. I am not one of them. I wish to save the world." Filming locations played a crucial role in immersing Vesga in Manousos' solitary journey. The desolation and vastness of these places resonated with him, instilling a sense of smallness and loneliness while simultaneously highlighting the vastness of the world. Before setting off on the Darién Gap trail, Manousos is warned by the "others" about its perils, particularly the changa tree adorned with poisonous spikes. The production team researched this treacherous pathway for immigrants trying to reach the U.S., creating a chilling introduction to Manousos' ordeal. Along the trail, backpacks, clothes, and children's toys left behind foreshadow the trials he will face. One particularly memorable scene involves Vesga's heart-wrenching scream as his character is impaled on the changa tree spikes – an echo of Manousos' solitude and determination to save humanity.