By Paula Espinosa | San Diego Union-Tribune | Mar. 14, 2024 | Photo By Eduardo Contreras
Celebrating its 31st year, the San Diego Latino Film Festival is back to captivate audiences with a vibrant array of Latino cinema. After enduring the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are thrilled to return for our second year post-lockdown. From March 14 to March 24, AMC Mission Valley and the Digital Gym will host this year’s festival, promising a splendid showcase of Latino films meticulously curated by our new artistic director, Maria Paula Lorgia Garnica. Dive into our festival catalog for screening details of the compelling films lined up for this year’s event.
One highlight of this year’s festival is our diverse collection of Latino films, reflecting the multifaceted narratives within the Latino community. “Linda & Carlos: A Chicano Love Story” offers an intimate portrayal of the Chicano Movement in San Diego through the lives of Linda and Carlos LeGerrette, a local couple who played a pivotal role in advancing the Mexican American community both locally and in California’s agricultural fields. Director Richard Saiz, a San Diego native and close associate of the LeGerrettes, brings their story to life. Join us for a Q&A session with the director and protagonists on March 21 following the screening.
Another gem in our lineup is “The Muralists’ Beautiful Pain,” a captivating documentary delving into the lives of seven Latin mural artists in the San Francisco Bay Area. These artists navigate personal and cultural challenges, using their craft to depict the shared history and future of cultural struggles. “Moe,” directed by José Luis Valenzuela, features legendary Chicano actors Sal López and Danny de la Paz, exploring themes of love and imagination against the backdrop of AIDS. Join us for the San Diego premiere, with the esteemed actors in attendance.
“Hummingbirds,” set in Laredo, Texas, follows the journey of best friends Silvia and Beba as they confront the fragility of home amidst immigration struggles. “100 Ways to Cross the Border” presents a daring exploration of Mexican/Chicano performance artist Guillermo Gómez-Peña and his troupe La Pocha Nostra’s boundary-defying artistic endeavors.
Our Arte Chicano shorts program features captivating stories such as “Strawberry Picker,” chronicling the journey of a boy from labor camps to becoming a celebrated artist, and “Razón de Ser: Luis C. Garza,” which highlights the pioneering work of the Chicano photographer. “Man Without Reason” portrays Richard Cabral’s transformation from gang violence to Emmy-nominated actor and business owner, while “Un Trip: Raúl Salinas and the Poetry of Liberation’’ offers a split-screen exploration of Xicanindio poet raúlrsalinas’ journey to liberation through jazz and poetry.
In addition, our “Dance on Film” event curated by Celeste Lanuza and Cynthia Morales presents an exhilarating fusion of dance, music and cinema, showcasing the dynamic artistry of renowned dance artists.
We are honored to host the legendary actor and director Cheech Marin for two special events. Join us for a Q&A session after the screening of “The Long Game,” a film depicting the inspiring journey of Mexican American teenage caddies in 1950s Texas. Additionally, don’t miss the encore screening of Cheech’s award-winning film “Born in East L.A.,” followed by another engaging Q&A session with the iconic filmmaker.
The San Diego Latino Film Festival is more than just a cinematic experience; it’s a celebration of Latinx culture and creativity. Join us for an unforgettable journey through the lens of talented filmmakers and artists.
