The Mexican-American Film & Television Festival & Awards (MAFTF) returns for its milestone fifth year with growing momentum, expanding its footprint as a vital platform for Chicano and Mexican-American storytellers.  The two day festival will take place from March 25 and 26, expanding into two locations, Harmony Gold Theater in Hollywood and Milagro Cinemas located in Norwalk.

Founded with a mission to showcase, promote, and celebrate Mexican-American/Chicano filmmakers, MAFTF has steadily positioned itself as both a cultural and industry touchpoint—spotlighting voices too often underrepresented in mainstream Hollywood while championing authentic storytelling across all formats.

The festival has grown exponentially since it began in 2022. The projects were selected from over 200 submissions which included a wide variety of  film, documentary, television, and emerging vertical formats—underscoring both the demand and the creative surge within the community.

“MAFTF 2026 Theme: “Our Stories Must Be Told To Defy Adversity”, reminds us of how by telling our stories we inform, help heal and resist the forces which are hurting our community,” said Dr. Jose Luis Ruiz President & Festival Director of MAFTF.

In addition to the screenings, MAFTF features panels discussion, workshops, and Fireside Chats. 

The following panel discussion will be held on Saturday from 11:00AM – 6:00PM.

– Funding, Marketing & Distribution Panel

-The World of Vertical & How To Make Money With Them

– Casting & Production for Ultra Low Budget SAG Film

– Fireside Chat with Actor/Director & Producer Enrique Castillo

Special Honors Spotlight Industry Excellence

The culmination of the festival is the highly anticipated closing night Illustrious Awards, a recognition of the best of the festival and, this year the recognition of five individuals whose contributions—both in front of and behind the camera—exemplify the depth and range of Latino talent shaping today’s entertainment landscape.

Honorees

Veteran actor, writer, and director Enrique Castillo will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring a decades-long career that spans theater, film, and television. Castillo’s performances in films such as El Norte, Nixon, My Family, and Déjà Vu among many others, have consistently brought nuance and dignity to Latino characters. He remains indelibly associated with his iconic role as Montana in Blood In Blood Out, as well as his work on the Showtime series Weeds.

Rising multi-hyphenate Annie Gonzalez will be honored with the Illustrious Award for Outstanding Achievement in Acting. A Chicana actress, singer, and producer, Gonzalez has built a dynamic career with standout roles in Gentefied, Flamin’ Hot, and her portrayal of Jenni Rivera in the biopic Jenni. Her television work—including Shameless, American Horror Story, and Vida—reflects her ongoing commitment to advancing Latinx representation on screen.

Also receiving recognition is Mishel Prada, receiving the Illustrious Award for Trailblazing Excellence in Acting. Prada is best known for her groundbreaking role as Emma Hernandez in Starz’s Vida, portrayed a queer/pansexual Latina character with complexity and authenticity. She has also appeared as Detective KD Silva in Peacock’s The Continental, further expanding her range across genres.

Acclaimed television director Felix Alcala will receive the Trailblazer in Directing Award. With credits including Lone Star and 9-1-1 among many, Alcalá has helmed episodes of some of television’s most prominent series, helping shape the visual and narrative language of contemporary TV.

Rounding out the honorees is respected entertainment journalist Naibe Reynoso, who will be presented with the Excellence in Journalism Award and 

A Growing Cultural Force

According to several studies, although Mexican-Americans make up more than 11% of the U.S. population, they are significantly underrepresented or completely ignored by Hollywood. The Mexican-American Film & Television Festival stands as a beacon for inclusive storytelling for these filmmakers by creating space for narratives that are culturally specific yet universally resonant.

In just five years, MAFTF has evolved from a grassroots platform recognized for its significant cultural event, championing a new generation of storytellers while honoring those who have paved the way. With record submissions and a powerful slate of honorees, this year’s festival signals not just growth—but impact.

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By Andrea Nunez-Gamboa

In a rare occurrence, two Latino-themed films—Clika and The Dreamer Cinderella—competed at the box office this past January 23. The films simultaneous release offers a revealing look at how marketing strategies that address similar markets operate at opposite ends of the industry spectrum, namely studio-backed campaigns with substantial resources versus the limited marketing budget of independent films.

It is well documented that U.S. Latinos are the most avid moviegoers in the U.S. This matters not only because the film industry is experiencing sustained declines in movie attendance—limiting the discovery of new films and talent—but also because Latino audiences represent untapped economic potential.

A 2023 McKinsey’s research study found that the US film industry might generate an additional $12 to $18 billion annually if Latino cultural representation in films increased,. 

Latinos account for roughly 30% of the U.S. economy with a collective GDP that would rank as the fifth largest in the world, according to The Latino Donor Collaborative, a think tank that produces yearly studies on the filmgoing habits of U.S.Latinos  The disconnect between economic power and the industry’s representation of Latinos raises a persistent question: Why does Latino visibility in U.S. films remain so limited?

It is a complicated answer that includes the lack of studio greenlighting for Latino projects, smaller budgets, and limited marketing support. As a result, many Latino filmmakers turn to the independent route, where little to no funding is allocated to marketing. By the numbers, the disparity is striking: The ratio between a studio film’s marketing budget and an independent film’s is approximately 87 to 1.   

Sol Trujillo, co-founder of the Latino Donor Collaborative (LDC) and former Fortune 200 CEO, argues that Hollywood studios are leaving billions of dollars on the table by failing to produce and properly market content for U.S. Latinos. Based on the 2024 LDC U.S. Latinos in Media Report, Latinos  purchase 24% to 29% of all box office tickets, yet remain one of the most underrepresented groups on screen.

Same Opening Week, Different Budgets

The simultaneous release of the two Latino themed independent films Clika and The Dreamer Cinderella, represented a strong moment for Latino representation in cinema this past January. Led by Mexican American directors, producers, and actors, both projects reflected contemporary cultural themes. However, their markedly different production and marketing resources set the stage for contrasting box office trajectories.

Clika, a music drama directed by Michael Greene and produced by Jimmy Humilde, follows Chito (Jay Dee), a small-town musician whose viral success propels him into the world of corridos tumbados, a subgenre of regional Mexican rap music. Distributed in 522 theaters, the film benefited from the backing of Columbia Pictures, a Sony subsidiary with a robust marketing infrastructure. Given Sony’s existing ties to Humilde’s Latin record label Rancho Humilde, the project aligned seamlessly with the company’s brand ecosystem.

The Dreamer Cinderella tells the story of Xochitl, a fruit vendor whose life changes when a filmmaker casts her as the subject of a daring bet, revealing her as a hidden star. Directed and produced independently Dr. Ruiz Productions with first time director Dr. Jose Luis Ruiz, this independent film was distriubted in only 16 theaters by Atlas Distribution. The difference in marketing visibility between these two films is stark, but as the performance data will show, scale is not the only strategy at producers’ disposal to drive attendance.

Measuring Momentum, Not Scale

Trying to evaluate each film’s marketing effectiveness by comparing their total box office gross ticket sales would be unfair. Between January 23 and January 27, Clika earned $1,520,455 while The Dreamer Cinderella earned $8,880—a differential that reflects their vastly different scales of distribution. Instead, it is more equitable to compare the percentage changes in daily gross ticket sales respective to each film. This approach highlights momentum rather than reach, an especially useful lens for independent films whose full box office data is often underreported. While these limitations make a fully precise picture difficult, the figures still offer a meaningful basis for interpretation.

Takeaway: Clika

Clika’s performance data shows relatively moderate fluctuations, meaning the film experienced smaller declines following opening day and steadier rebounds throughout the opening week. This suggests consistent brand recognition and predictable audience reach. Even when attendance dips, the film’s structural visibility helps cushion the decline later in the week, allowing it to recover audience attendance by the following weekend.

This performance can be attributed to an ongoing baseline marketing presence supported by a studio-led campaign and a distributor such as Columbia Pictures/Sony. The strategy included a strong digital footprint, paid social media exposure, radio and podcast interviews, and billboard placements, which are elements that align with the comprehensive distribution and promotional approach typically associated with major studio releases.

Takeaway: The Dreamer Cinderella

The Dreamer Cinderella’s performance during opening week, by contrast, is characterized by sharp declines followed by a dramatic rebound, with its highest upward growth occurring on January 27 the last day of the theatrical run. This trajectory suggests a performance closely tied to marketing pushes, particularly those driven by community-based promotion, with targeted theaters, universities, film festivals, paid social media and community partners.

“…when the audience is targeted correctly, they respond.”

As an independent film, the key insight here is clear: When marketing aligns with audience outreach, the response is powerful. The spike in performance shows that when the audience is targeted correctly, they respond. Independent films can perform well, as audience interest often exists, but tailored marketing is required to make a meaningful difference during opening week.

In the case of The Dreamer Cinderella, there was an intentional effort to invest independent dollars into marketing, almost as a case study to test the idea that even modest marketing spending can influence performance and drive attendance.

Dr. Ruiz Productions joined forces with Entertainment Media Specialist to launch a groundbreaking case study of with The Dreamer Cinderella, and Latino independent film marketing. Modeled after major studio marketing strategies—but without the luxury of nine-figure budgets.  The Independent Latino Film Marketing Campaign (ILFMC) study harnessed the power of grassroots community outreach, mobilizing Latino organizations nationwide and reaching out to independent thaters to screen the film through a film distributor and community engagement. Together all helped build a smart, targeted, community-driven release strategy. 

FINAL THOUGHTS

“Ultimately, this analysis suggests that budget size matters less than how resources are allocated. As Latino audiences continue to grow and drive box office revenue, films made for these communities must be paired with marketing strategies that recognize their value and meet them where they are.”

The opening-week data makes one point clear, namely that marketing determines whether Latino audiences show up, not whether they exist. Clika’s steadier performance reflects sustained visibility, whereas The Dreamer Cinderella’s volatility reveals untapped demand that can be activated when outreach is strategic.

For Latino films, especially independent films, success is not a question of scale but marketing precision. When marketing investment is culturally informed and strategically deployed, independent projects can compete with large-scale commercial releases. In a market as powerful as the Latino audience, marketing is not optional. It is the difference between invisibility and impact, something that Latino movies should consider to gain a foothold in the film industry.

Ultimately, this analysis suggests that budget size matters less than how resources are allocated. As Latino audiences continue to grow and drive box office revenue, films made for these communities must be paired with marketing strategies that recognize their value and meet them where they are.

The post Marketing Latino Films: What The Films ‘Clika’ and ‘The Dreamer Cinderella’ Show Us first appeared on .

The holidays are here, which means long drives, airport lines, late-night wrapping sessions, and those quiet moments when everyone finally naps and you can slip in your earbuds. This season, I am turning to podcasts made by and for Latino audiences (and anyone who loves a good conversation). 

Latino podcasts are having a moment, and the numbers prove it.

According to the Edison Latino Podcast Listener Report, “Latino podcast listenership has grown significantly, with a 72% increase in monthly listeners among U.S. Latinos aged 18+ since 2020, far outpacing general population growth.” The report also notes that the rise is tied to a growing desire for content that reflects Latino culture and lived experiences. It has created a more diverse and highly engaged audience, with women now making up half of all listeners and spending more time with podcasts than the general U.S. population.

These shows feel intimate, like calling your favorite prima, your best friend, or the mom who always tells you the truth (even when you don’t want to hear it). Here are five podcasts I am listening to this holiday break, each with a different vibe, a different purpose, and a whole lot of heart.

1. “Motherish” with Pamela Silva and Karen Comas
For the moms who crave honesty, humor, and a reminder that we are doing better than we think.
Hosted by first-time moms Pamela Silva and Karen Comas, “Motherish” is the kind of podcast that understands the chaos of parenting without ever judging it. Episodes range from tackling toddler tantrums to raising confident kids, figuring out family travel, and calling out “performative mom culture,” all with the warmth, humor, and realness of two Latina friends who tell it straight. It is comforting and surprisingly grounding. It is the perfect companion for moms trying to keep it together during the busiest season of the year.

2. “Big Deal” with Codie Sánchez
For the dreamers, the hustlers, and anyone ready to level up.
Codie Sánchez, daughter of immigrants, former journalist, and now one of the most influential voices in business, brings a bold, bilingual perspective to entrepreneurship. Her “BigDeal” podcast strips away the jargon and gets straight to the “how”: How to launch a business. How to invest. How to take control of your financial life (even/especially if you did not grow up with money). What makes this podcast special is Codie’s fearlessness. She is the friend who hands you the blueprint, reminds you that you are capable, and pushes you to actually take the leap.

3. “Encontrando Una Luz en Su Caso” with Maribel Piza
For families trying to navigate immigration with clarity and hope.
Every week, high-powered immigration attorney Maribel Piza breaks down the biggest changes in United States immigration law in a way that is direct, calming, and empowering. She does it all in a bilingual tone that feels like talking to a trusted tía who also happens to be a legal powerhouse. In every episode, Maribel delivers three top stories affecting immigrant communities nationwide and gives listeners something even more important: hope. This podcast is essential listening for anyone impacted by immigration policy or anyone who wants to stay informed.

4. “The Perez Hilton Podcast” 
For the entertainment lovers who also appreciate a little nostalgia.
Say what you want, but Perez Hilton remains one of the most recognizable names in entertainment. What makes his “PHP” show different from his early days online is the maturity and cultural self-awareness he brings now. With his co-host Chris Booker, Perez is funny, he is honest, and he shares stories shaped by his Miami Cuban upbringing, his queerness, and his decades covering Hollywood. This show feels like catching up with your chismoso friend who somehow always has the tea on what’s happening right now with all the context behind it.

5. “Latino USA” with Maria Hinojosa
For those who want depth, news, culture, storytelling, and truth.
Hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa, “Latino USA” is the longest running Latino-focused news and culture program in the country. Hinojosa and her team deliver deeply-reported stories that explore identity, politics, history, art, and community with nuance and compassion. Listening feels like taking a masterclass in who we are as a people. If you want something meaningful to carry you into the new year, start here with voices you can trust.

Honorable Mention: “The Dr. Ferrer Podcast”
For the health curious and the ‘my doctor never explains anything’ crowd.
Dr. Gustavo Ferrer, a bilingual pulmonologist and public health expert, brings a refreshing mix of science, compassion, and cultural understanding to medical conversations. His co-host is his Gen Z daughter Amanda, who keeps him honest and asks the questions we are all afraid to ask our doctors. Together, they break down everything from Sleepy Girl Mocktails to gut health to the real science behind “Sana Sana colita de rana.” (Spoiler: it works if you believe). “The Dr. Ferrer Podcast”  feels like being invited into a family discussion, one where a doctor dad explains health trends without the jargon. He also reminds us that healing is both physical and emotional. It is the perfect listen for starting the new year with healthier habits.

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Award-winning filmmaker and storyteller Jorge Xolalpa has signed a groundbreaking distribution agreement with Lumexx Media, paving the way for his complete eight-film canon to premiere on Apple TV+ in 2026. The multi-picture deal marks a career-defining milestone for one of independent cinema’s most daring and emotionally resonant voices, offering Xolalpa’s decade of work its first unified global streaming home.

Xolalpa is a Mexican-born, Los Angeles–based filmmaker, writer, and producer whose films explore identity, resilience, and the immigrant experience. Known for his emotionally charged narratives and minimalist visual approach, his work has screened internationally and earned accolades for authenticity and heart.

The partnership represents not only a major win for the filmmaker, but also a significant moment for contemporary Latino cinema, bringing long-overdue visibility to a body of work that blends profound humanism with gripping narrative artistry.

The collection of short and feature films spans Xolalpa’s evolution as a writer-director: a filmmaker who has consistently infused his stories with emotional realism, social consciousness, and an unmistakable minimalist visual style. Although Jorge did not attend film school, his writing and directing method have been critically acclaimed in the industry. His thematic is constantly very dark and dramatic. Jorge’s has publicly admitted that he is heavily inspired by the works of Woody Allen, David Fincher, and Darren Aronofsky.

The list of his films that are part of the distribution deal include:

Blue Line Station (2016) — A high-school couple embarks on an unexpected journey to Planned Parenthood as they face the realities of an unwanted pregnancy.

Valentina (2017) –When her daughter is kidnapped, Valentina must outsmart the system to raise the ransom money and save her child.

Sweet Caroline (2018) — A once-happy couple is thrust into psychological darkness after a devastating tragedy shatters their world.

Your Iron Lady (2020) — Inspired by true resilience, the film follows Teresa, an immigrant mother of four, who makes the brave decision to leave her abusive husband upon arriving in the U.S.

Melancolia (2021) — A hospice nurse haunted by grief struggles to care for the dying while navigating the trauma of losing her daughter in a school shooting.

Union Station (2023) — Two strangers stranded in Los Angeles confront one transformative night that forces them to reclaim their lives and face their fears.

Lolita (2025) — After serving nine years in prison, Jesús fights to reintegrate into society and regain custody of his daughter, Lolita.

Huehxolotl (2027) — Currently in pre-production for an early 2026 shoot, the epic expands Xolalpa’s cinematic universe, tapping into myth, heritage, and identity.

For Xolalpa his has been a long-awaited and well earned moment. For years, Jorge Xolalpa stayed patient. Despite doubts surrounding his work, he continued to create, refine, and believe.

His  perseverance forms the emotional spine of the announcement. Now, Xolapa feels the world will finally discover his work through this new partnership.  For Xolalpa, the moment is nothing short of a transformative.

“Partnering with Lumexx Media and Apple TV+ feels like the beginning of a new chapter,” said Xolalpa. “Every one of these films was made with heart, faith, and defiance. To see them finally brought together on a global platform is nothing short of a dream realized.”

Lumexx Media is a global entertainment company specializing in premium independent film distribution and strategic streaming partnerships. Under the new agreement, Lumexx Media and Apple TV+ will execute a coordinated international marketing campaign ahead of the 2026 premiere. The partnership cements Xolalpa’s rising prominence among contemporary Latino filmmakers whose work is reshaping independent cinema and expanding representation across global streaming platforms. 

“Jorge Xolalpa represents the fearless new wave of independent auteurs,”  echoed Lumexx Media CEO Marco Medina. “His films are deeply human and profoundly cinematic—exactly the kind of storytelling that transcends borders. We’re honored to introduce his vision to a worldwide audience.”

Xolalpa is also an author who is currently embarking on a book tour promoting his first book Ni De Aquí, Ni De Allá: A Soul Suspended Between Two Worlds a raw, intimate memoir about identity, resilience, and the healing power of storytelling.

The post Jorge Xolalpa Secures Landmark Deal with Lumexx Media to Bring Eight-Film Catalogue to Apple TV+ in 2026 first appeared on .

Chiquis is a dynamic force in the entertainment industry who recently picked up her third GRAMMY. She is a businesswoman, entrepreneur, author, and media personality. The series will premiere in 2025 and is a 30-minute, six-episode unscripted limited docu-follow series. It is Executive Produced by Chiquis, Richard Bull, Sebastian Jimenez, and LatiNation Media’s Andres Palencia, and Bruno Seros Ulloa. Chiquis’ Busy Bee Productions produced the series with LatiNation Media.

In the 30-minute series Foodie on the Go, Chiquis embarks on epic road trips to uncover the country’s most unique and delicious eats. From 5-star restaurants to food trucks, neighborhood staples, and street food carts, each episode features Chiquis engaging with chefs and staff while savoring their creations. Chiquis’ natural charm brings out the rich stories behind the food and the vibrant personalities of the people who make it. With a passion for supporting small businesses, the series celebrates local entrepreneurs and their love for cooking and culinary creativity.

Chiquis’ journey to success is marked by remarkable achievements and a relentless drive to inspire and empower others. In 2024, Chiquis released her fifth studio album, Diamantes, which earned her a third Latin GRAMMY for Best Banda Music Album and a 2025 GRAMMY nomination for Best Música Mexicana Álbum.  Beyond music, she has her top-rated podcast, “Chiquis and Chill,” and a thriving social media presence, allowing Chiquis to continue to connect with millions of fans around the globe. In 2023, Chiquis expanded her reach by co-founding Busy Bee Productions alongside established industry professionals Sebastian Jimenez and Richard Bull. Committed to creating impactful and inclusive content, the company aims to amplify diverse voices and share authentic stories that resonate with audiences worldwide. Busy Bee Productions’ first project was the “Chiquis Sin Filtro” docu-series, which became VIX’s #1-rated show in the United States.

“I wanted to have Foodie on the Go be one of Busy Bee Productions’ first shows because I want people to know the story of who’s cooking the food and why, Chiquis explained. It’s one of my favorite parts of the show – getting inspired by the food, the culture, the crunch, the spice, and meeting the owners and staff. I love connecting with the culture through the dishes and the people making and serving the food.”

For his part Andres Palencia, CEO, LatiNation Media enthused, “Few things represent Latino culture better than our relationship with food. Foodie on the Go aligns perfectly with our mission to amplify content and culture created by Latinos for a multi-generational audience, and it’s infused with LatiNation’s sabor,” said . “We’re excited to showcase a different kind of food culture show, one that is uniquely Chiquis.”

“We are excited to have Chiquis as a part of the LatiNation Media family,” added Bruno Seros Ulloa, COO & President, LatiNation Media. “She embodies the fusion of dual cultures and heritage, and this show highlights the rich experiences and meaningful stories tied to food across the country. Watching her visit diverse locations on tour – and on camera – offers the ultimate road trip experience.”

LatiNation Media is a bilingual, multi-platform media company whose mission is to transform Latino representation in the modern media landscape by creating content that organically represents today’s Latino experience.

The post Chiquis Stars in Docu Series ‘Foodie on the Go’ To Air on LATV and LatiNation+ first appeared on .

There is power in numbers, and if that is so, with the new partnership between novela and film star Carlos Ponce, Brilla Media, Numatec, and Chicano Hollywood, who are launching Minivela, it is a power move in the right direction. Minvela is their digital shorts joint venture launching in January 2025 aimed to set in motion a bold new era for American Latino filmmakers, creators, and advertisers. The announcement was made at the 26th annual ANA Multicultural Marketing & Diversity Conference in Las Vegas earlier this week.

Minivela is an American Latino-owned and operated company dedicated to producing advertiser-supported digital shorts created by Latino filmmakers and creators with a target audience of primarily American Latinos ages 18-34. Initially the streaming content verticals will range from 10 to 90 minutes. A key pillar of Minivela’s approach is to catapult select narratives into independent features or series utilizing the innovative, adtech-powered approach.

“This is a groundbreaking journey that we believe will empower Latino storytellers and drive U.S. Hispanic digital advertising for years to come,” said Manny Ruiz, who serve as the Chief Creative Officer and Executive Producer of the joint venture alongside Ponce, who will also write and direct select Minivelas. ““Our focus is on consistently producing universally appealing stories with a vision that extends beyond Minivelas.  A key pillar of our innovative approach is to catapult select narratives into independent features or series.”

“When the Hollywood system is undergoing a much-needed reboot, Minivela represents a beacon of hope, experimentation, and opportunities for Latino creatives at a time” said Ponce.  Adding that the Latino-owned venture will address the representation gap for our community organically, and that our operations are driven by pioneers in Latino social media, digital media, and adtech.

The family-friendly digital films will be accessible free on Minivela’s YouTube, and social media channels, as well as thru adtech conglomerate, Numatec’s distribution partnerships.  Combined with Brilla Media’s Nuestro Media network, brand sponsors will be able to secure USH audiences effectively across digital, CTV, and other platforms.

 The West Coast production arm of the company and a cornerstone of Minivela is Chicano Hollywood, the influential L.A.-based production, media, and magazine company that produces the annual Elevate conference for Latino filmmakers.

Chicano Hollywood is already producing one of the platform’s early bets, a feel good romcom called “Cholita Takes L.A.” that is being directed by a rising Chicana director. Cholitas, Cholos, and Cholas shine in this story about a young Bolivian luchadora and aspiring fashion designer who journeys to L.A. to care for her ailing grandmother—only to discover she must also overcome culture clashes and personal challenges on her path to unexpected love.

“Minivela is putting deeds before words, and that’s something the Latino film community will root hard for, and why we’re a proud partner,” said Johnny Murrillo, founder and CEO of Chicano Hollywood.  “It’s also critical to note that for Minivela, the projects must be Latino-produced but the stories must appeal to audiences universally even outside our core Hispanic community.  We have some fun ones lined up!”

Angela Sustaita-Ruiz, chairwoman of Brilla Media, the parent company of Minivela, expands on the mission of the venture, “We’re going to push boundaries and prove that you can be creative and positively provocative without leaning on the usual violent drug dealers, and other tired tropes that diminish our community.”

The post Power Partnership Launches New Era With Minivela first appeared on .

The National Hispanic Media Coalition announced the line up for their upcoming 2024 Impact Awards Gala taking place on Friday, June 14, 2024 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, CA. For the second year in a row the evening will be hosted by actress, Artivista, and producer Annie Gonzalez (Jenni, Flamin’ Hot). Joining Gonzalez for the hosting duties at the annual celebration honors will be actress, writer and producer Mayan Lopez (Lopez vs. Lopez).  

As outspoken advocates for the Latine community, this year’s honorees are paving the way for Latine artists in the entertainment industry, which closely aligns with NHMC’s mission.  This year’s Impact Awardees are Uruguayan writer, director, and executive producer Fede Alvarez is being honored for his directorial work that’s brought us multiple hit horror and thriller films, including the Texas Chainsaw Massacre and his most recent film, Alien: Romulus releasing this coming August. NHMC Visionary Alliance Member and long-time supporter, Actor, Producer, Writer Harvey Guillén will be honored for his groundbreaking role in the FX series What We Do in the Shadows, and Mexican director, writer, and producer Issa López will be honored for her work as writer, director, and showrunner of Season 4 of HBO’s True Detective: Night Country. Actress, singer, and entrepreneur, Tatyana Ali, will receive her Impact Award for her advocacy and policy work in maternal health and reproductive justice.

The Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) will be honored with the Community Impact Award for their commitment to multiculturalism and creating change for marginalized communities, while streaming giant Tubi will be honored for its diverse programming providing a platform for Latine series showcasing authentic representations of our Latine communities. 

“[Our] honorees embody where our community is headed and are pushing their industries forward simply by taking up space and using their platforms to uplift other Latine creatives.,” said Brenda Victoria Castillo, President & CEO of the NHMC. “NHMC is committed to ensuring that our community is recognized – not just at our gala, but in every space.” 

The annual Impact Awards Gala is a part of the NHMC’s overall mission to spotlight the importance of accurate, fair, and positive representation in media. Through the coveted Impact Awards, each year the NHMC honors individuals who are truly making an impact, shifting societal narratives, and setting an example for Latine communities.

This year, in keeping with their mission to provide resources to help bring awareness to the power and contributions of Latino/a/x/e in all sectors of society, NHMC recently launched a new media guide and resource providing comprehensive education about Latine Communities tailored for entertainment industry professionals this year, ‘Seeing Beyond The Stereotypes: Telling Authentic Latino/a/x/e Stories.”

For more information on the NHMC Impact Awards, log on to: www.NHMC.org

The post Fede Alvarez, Harvey Guillen, Issa Lopez and Tatyana Ali To Receive NHMC’s 2024 Impact Award first appeared on .

The YCP/Amazon Fellowship provides young filmmakers with mentorship and funding to create short films; this particular short film, created by the cohort, will premiere at the Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival (LALIFF) 2023. More info on this festival below.
https://laliff.org

The are currently are looking for Latinas and Afro Latinas between the ages of 18 and 22, to play brave and edgy non conforming punk rock musicians. No need to know how to play anything or sing, just give us the aesthetic and speak some Spanish.

Shoot Dates are April 14th – 16th in Los Angeles, CA. 

TALENT MUST BE LOS ANGELES LOCAL. The project is SAG-AFTRA and is a paid gig.
Send your submission materials (picture, resume, phone number and email) to solsupernovacasting@cris-franco

Casting for the following roles

[V] To Play 18 to 22; Latina; female. Brave and reckless. A nonconformist who uses anger to cover up her emotional sensitivity. 

[ANDY] To Play 18 to 22, Afro-Latina; female. V’s girlfriend. She is almost always calm and collected. The voice of reason. She mostly defers to her partner V, who is a lot more assertive. 

[BELLA] To Play 18 to 22, Latina, female. Bella has a strong urge to express herself and is very passionate. She plays drums in a rock band with her roommates.

If you fit these roles. Submit as soon as possible

Creative team includes:

Producing Mentor: Gabriela Gonzalez, Directing Mentor: Anthony Nardolillo , Writers: Kimberly Mediola Leon and Alyssa Rodriguez, Casting Director: Candido Cornejo, CSA, Casting Assistant: Michael Padilla

The post Casting Latina & Afro-Latina Punk Rock Musicians 18-22 + ‘Sol Supernova’ first appeared on .

It would not be a cliché to say that triple threat performer/director Karina Noelle Castillo was ever not destined to be a part of the film, TV, multi media digital industry. Her career accomplishments have solely been as a result of her training, talent and tenacious determination.  But coming from a family of noted entertainment industry professionals, veteran actor/writer/director Enrique Castillo (Deja Vu, Blood in Blood Out, Weeds), media maven/producer Bel Hernandez (TheTRENDTalk, Latin Heat Entertainment), and highly regarded theater actor Sol Castillo (American Mariachi), one can say it was almost Karina’s birthright. 

Yet, despite who she’s related to in Hollywood, the best way to describe Karina is that she is first and foremost, a Los Angeles born Chicana, who is building an impressive career as an actor, producer, director and is also and entrepreneur with her  own clothing (Humana/Xicana brand). She graduated from the prestigious Los Angeles County High School for the Arts and California Institute of Arts, where she studied as a Theatre Major.

Karina started booking TV roles as a teenager at the age of 13. And has racked up an impressive list of TV credits working on programs such as: NCIS, S.W.A.T., Rebel, L.A.’s Finest, Pump, Superstore, The Good Doctor, Grey’s Anatomy, General Hospital, and Criminal Minds, to name a few. In 2015, she had a recurring role in Empty Space in the role of Martina for eight episodes.  

In 2015, she was cast in The Last Dinner, a horror short film. Her introduction to the horror/thriller genres and she loved it! Her other shorts she acted in are: Romantick, Vici, Ten Thousand Miles, Hero Complex, and Wake which inspired her to venture out on her own and direct, write and star in first short film Outside Your Door in 2020 about two young adults who try to manage their complicated feelings in the midst of a passionate but ultimately doomed romance.  

Currently, Karina has making the transition from acting to filmmaking. “More often than not in acting, you’re just one piece of the entirety of the art of filmmaking. I love the idea of being able to take an idea from its infancy and then create the final product and it’s thrilling to see my name behind it. To have my stamp on it, is exciting.”

Her second project currently in pre-preproduction, The Wall, is a 15-minute short, and officially her second horror/thriller short film outside of film school. 

Why the scary genre?

“I’ve always been a big fan of thriller/horror films and they are a fan favorite. They provide the opportunity to wrap serious themes in an entertaining package,” she said. “Thus, reaching a wider audience whose cup of tea isn’t always the more serious dramas. For this film, I drew inspiration from the classics like The Exorcist and Rosemary’s Baby, as well as the more modern films like The Babadook.

Karina grew up in the era and was a huge fan of Goosebumps and other R.L. Stine books. 

“I then ended up becoming a bit obsessed with gothic horrors, especially the Anne Rice universe starting with Interview with a Vampire and then moving on to the rest of the series,” she said. “I interspersed these with the classics like Dracula, Frankenstein, Phantom of the Opera, etc. I think the latest horror novel that terrified me was Bob Woodward’s Fear: Trump in the Whitehouse.” 

She gave us a good chuckle here — despite the fact we know she’s serious about culture, community activism and politics. She’s sincere in her desire to want the best to represent Latinos and people of color.

This year Karina was the recipient of the MACEF (Mexican American Cultural Education Foundation) grant recipients, where she was awarded $10,000 to help produce her short film. She was award the MACEF Premier Entertainment/ Dr. Ruiz Film Production Grant which was a great start, however Karina knew that to be able to afford the special effect she has planned for her film, she needed to raise more funds. 

The Wall is a tense psychological thriller with a searing message about the repercussions of denial and repression after trauma. It is intense but relatable film. “My goal in this,” stated Karina, “and all of my films is to shine a light on mental health, and to feature people of color in leading roles with as much nuance and truthful representation as possible”

“I wish I was a writer who gets obsessed with some historical subject and does heavy research to write about some sort of World War II story involving espionage or something like that,” she explained. “But I just write what I know. What’ I’ve experienced. It’s how I process things in my past, mistakes I’ve made, scenarios I wish I could have done better in my 20’s instead of ‘performing’ aka faking it, just like Lara is doing.” 

In further explaining her script, Karina reiterates that The Wall is not about mental illness but rather, the “importance of addressing your own individual mental health. It’s about the damage denial and repression after trauma causes”, she tells us. 

“Neither characters, Lara or Samuel, are mentally ill,” stated Karina.  “They are people who like the majority of us, sacrifice their own peace of mind to keep their relationships and homes together. So many of us make little tiny choices every day to either ignore our feelings or placate people, or to convince ourselves that ‘everything is OK’.” 

“After many years those small choices become a mountain of unaddressed issues, and our mental health suffers because of it. Eventually all of those things that we don’t address will boil over, and that manifests differently depending on the person.”

The Wall’s theme has relevance to a wide audience because most of us have experienced the harm that denial and repression can cause. If we allow the trauma to fester, it could swallow you whole without mental health professional assistance. But with proper treatments, most can face their fears and it can be a glorious rebirth. That’s the beauty of the promise of The Wall.

For now, The Wall is slated for its world premiere as part of the Mexican American Film and Television Festival in 2023 which happens May 13 and 14 at Ralieigh Studios in Hollywood. 

“Of course, for The Wall, it is all dependent on how well we do with our crowdfunding campaign and in finishing the film in time for submission,” stated Karina. “I’m honestly just grateful to be selected as one of their recipients… Just being supported by them and having the board believe in my project is heartening enough. Any other festivals would be more icing on the cake.”

Karina Noelle Castillo is undeniably at the forefront of rising talents and film directors in Hollywood. She is the CEO and founder of Another Killer Winter, a production company focused on projects that explore the bitter-sweetness of humanity with an emphasis on looking through the female lens. She has has also extended her directing talents to include the TheTRENDTalk TV show which airs on MeTV and all social media platforms. She produced and starred in the web series Buzzchat premiered on the FYI channel as a featured segment of talk show KikiMobile in 2017.

To be a part of Karina’s latest film project, please click The Wall for more details. Karina Noelle Castillo is repped by @citizenskull.liz, @soverigntalentgroup. 

The Wall Cast: 

Karina Noelle Castillo as Lara

Andrew Lee as Samuel

Leonora Anzaldua, Producer and DP

Aram Ramirez is 2^nd Unit Camera

The Wall Crowdfunding Campaign

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There will be a plethora of Latino talent gracing the airwaves this holiday as Lifetime launches its annual It’s a Wonderful Lifetime programming event. Offering joyous cheer will be films that feature stars such as Rita Moreno, Mario Lopez, Camila Banus, Mario Cantone, Ariana Ron Pedrique, Rodrigo Massa and many others. 

Beginning on Novemver 17 at 8/7c Sweet Navidad starts off the season with a focus on a young, hard-working pastry chef Carmen (Camila Banus), who dreams of opening her own Puerto Rican-influenced bakery, like the one her family owned on the island. When hotel owner Victor Flores (David Fumero) discovers Carmen’s treats at a local coffee shop, he invites her to apply for a position as pastry chef for his hotel’s holiday gala.  When she is accepted, she’s paired with chef Jax (Mark Hapka). At first, the two do not mix well. Carmen is messy and cooks from the heart; Jax is a perfectionist fixated on technique. 

Miami-born Banus, of Spanish and Cuban descent, is best known for her role as Gabi Hernandez on the soap opera, Days of Our Lives (2010-2015). “This Lifetime film does reflect my upbringing,” says Banus. “In the film, when all the chefs are competing, they brag about what important culinary schools they attended. When they ask Carmen about her training. She exclaims, ‘I studied at the academy of mi familia…in Miami.’ Also featured in Sweet Navidad are Melissa Marty, Teri Hoyos, Manny Streetz Guevara, Norma Maldonado and J. Santiago Suarez.      

Sweet Navidad is produced by Ninth House Films for Lifetime. Autumn Federici and Jake Helgren serve as producers. Marianne C. Wunch, Hannah Pillemer, Fernando Szew from MarVista serve as executive producers. Script by Cristina Boada with Brittany Underwood as director.

Santa Bootcamp (November 19 at 8/7c) finds event planner Emily Strauss (Emily Kinney, (The Walking Dead) being commanded by mall magnate Ed Mancini (Patrick Cassidy of Castle) to stage the ultimate Christmas Gala for his most important investors. Emily is sent to Santa Bootcamp where she is confronted by Belle (Rita Moreno, (West Side Story), the bootcamp’s drill sergeant with a heart of gold, who helps Emily rediscover the magic of Christmas and find romance along the way. 

“The director, Melissa Joan Hart, was wonderful to work with,” says Moreno. “While keeping a tight rein on the script and the flow of the movie, she allowed me to improvise a bit within the lines. That was wonderful.” Moreno further exclaims, “I have always been a holiday person. I have been known to decorate anyone in my house who happens to stand still for more than a minute, because during the holidays, I turn into a child.” Additional stars include Tony winner Marissa Jaret Winokur, Justin Gaston, John Schuck, and deaf actors Deanne Bray and Zyra Singleton.

Hart  also serves as executive producer, along with Irene Dreayer, Gina Rugolo Judd, and Paula Hart. The film is produced by Hartbreak Films Inc with a script written by Michael J. Murray.  

Steppin’ Into the Holiday (airing November 25 at 8/7c) features Mario Lopez, portraying a former Broadway star who returns to his hometown after being fired from a TV dance competition series where had served as host-producer-judge. “This has been great for me,” says Lopez. “Netflix reached out to me and asked if I would like to co-star with Jana Kramer. I think the network thought of us both because of our backgrounds, competing on Dancing With the Stars.”

As the title intimates, there is a lot of ‘steppin’ in the show. Lopez’s character, Billy, meets Rae (Kramer), the owner of a dance studio, where Billy’s 12-year-old nephew is her standout student. Billy volunteers to help Rae with the studio’s recital by reviving the town’s traditional Christmas Eve show. Along the way, the holiday spirit affects the disillusioned Broadway star and the hopeful small town dance teacher…in a good way.

Lopez and Kramer are executive producers on the movie, which served them both well. “Jana lives in Nashville where we are shooting and two of my favorite writers created the script, Peter Murrieta (The Wizards of Waverly Place) and his wife, Eliza.”  Lopez, whose parents were both emigrants from Mexico, became a child actor while a student in Chula Vista, California, eventually landing a series regular role on Saved by the Bell (1989-1994). Trained as a dancer from the age of seven, he made his Broadway debut in the 2008 in a revival of A Chorus Line.  

Steppin’ Into the Holiday, which also features Mario’s wife, Courtney Lopez, as well as Cheri Oteri and Mario Cantone, is produced by Via Mar and Roberts Media, LLC. in association with Motion Content Group. Mark Roberts, Mario Lopez, Jana Kramer,  Jeff Stearns, Richard Foster and Chet Fenster serve as Executive Producers. David Kendall directs from a script by Aliza Murrieta and Peter Murrieta.

Additional It’s A Wonderful Lifetime Latino-themed films include:  Cloudy, With a Chance For Christmas, starring Valerie Ortiz (11/5); Well Suited For Christmas, starring Mercedes de la Zerda (11/6); A Show-Stopping Christmas, starring Jamie Perez 11/20); and Merry Textmas, starring Ariana Ron Pedrique & Rodrigo Massa (12/4).

The post Holiday Cheer is a Slate of Latino-themed Films for Christmas first appeared on .