Allow Chimney Alfonzo to indulge in himself, his food, and you on a first date. You won’t be able to erase it from memory, because it’s animated in crayon
Twelve-year-old Silvia flees domestic violence in her country with her brother and mother. After illegally crossing the border, they seek refuge at a cousin's apartment. Silvia finds solace on the balcony, where she secretly observes a neighbor performing spiritual yoga. Mimicking these movements, Silvia experiences an awakening that connects her to the magic realism of the natural world. The story explores trauma, yoga, and mysticism, showing how young girls can find self-realization and break familial patterns for a hopeful future.
Across offers a sentimental look at Nuevo Laredo’s once-thriving nightclub scene. It also delves into the impact of Mexico’s war on drugs and its effects on the Laredo community.
Mirna and Magdiel are an ordinary family living under extraordinary circumstances. After fleeing violence in Honduras, joining the infamous migrant caravan, and enduring months in a US detention center, they are sponsored by a synagogue in Seattle, who lend them an empty beachfront mansion while they wait for their asylum verdict. Over three years, this young family navigates countless moments–both life-altering and mundane–where grief, memory, and joy collide.
Tonight might be the night Michael and Aly take their relationship to the next level. But Aly has a secret.
Timmothy and his sister Atlas are true artists at heart, however Timmothy comes to learn that he differs from his sister in a way that he feels he's unable to create art himself. With some sisterly advice and insight he's given some newfound confidence in his own artistic journey.
It is opening night, the theater is crowded and Clara, the leading actress, refuses to leave her dressing room. Something inside her is keeping her from leaving, something she will have to face.
The story of a grieving mother who battles her addiction to a black-market drug that gives her life-like dreams about the son she lost.
A century apart, two drag icons unite through art, resilience, and a shared legacy of self-expression and freedom. Leading the cast is Cynthia Lee Fontaine of RuPaul's Drag Race.
A group of US doctors in El Paso Texas, periodically cross the border into Ciudad Juarez to help Mexican children who most need it.
Alicia, a Black screenwriter, navigates her new staff writer position on a network drama. When she realizes that she’s nothing more than a fellowship diversity hire, Alicia tries to prove her worth to a room that must write in a "diverse" character to save their show.
Two personal journeys intersect when a struggling young photographer is hired for a cheap last minute portrait gig. The unfolding photo session, while transient, leaves an indelible mark on both women.
Set in the remote desert, the Cullen family faces a moral dilemma when a Guatemalan refugee pleads for help for his critically injured son.
The United States border is not just a geographic location. The border is everywhere. It lies within all undocumented immigrants with the threat that at any moment they can be captured, incarcerated, deported; their lives destroyed.
A young man brings his girlfriend to his rural Oregon hometown to introduce her to his family, only for things to go terribly wrong upon arrival.
A young mariachi faces his first performance alone but discovers his brother has always been by his side.
From Concept to Screen: The Journey of "Texas Cotton" Moderated by Drew Mayer-OakesDate: Saturday, September 28, 2024 @ 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Location: Plaza Theater BackstageDescription: Tyler Russell will share his inspiration behind "Texas Cotton," a mystery set in small-town Texas. Learn how he crafted a narrative that captures the essence of rural life while weaving a compelling and suspenseful plot. Discover the importance of creating a proof-of-concept short film - the panel will discuss how this initial step helped…
A Conversation with Chicano Hollywood TV Moderated by Abel RodriguezDate: Friday, September 27, 2024 @ 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Location: Plaza Theater BackstageDescription: Listen in on our conversation with Chicano Hollywood TV on how to get your films and movies their streaming service! This session will provide valuable insights and practical advice from industry experts on navigating the complex world of digital distribution.Panelists: Johnny Murillo (founder Chicano Hollywood), Raul Hernandez, Betania Murillo (Chicano Hollywood), Vincent Vargas (writer, Mayans M.C.)This…
Creating with Light & Lens - Cinematography on a Budget Moderated by Craig ChartierDate: Friday, September 27, 2024 @ 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Location: Plaza Theater BackstageDescription: Join us for an enlightening panel discussion on the art of cinematography, focusing on how to use lighting and lens choices to create professional-looking scenes in short films and indie features without breaking the bank. This session will provide valuable insights from experienced cinematographers who have mastered the craft of making every dollar…
Features that Sell Moderated by Charles HorakDate: Saturday September 28, 2024 @ 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM Location: Plaza Theater BackstageDescription: Join us for an insightful panel discussion on the strategies and best practices for creating independent feature films that are not only artistically compelling but also commercially viable. This session will explore the entire journey from conception to distribution, providing valuable tips for filmmakers looking to navigate the complexities of the independent film market.Panelists: Tyler Russel, Alana Wright, Robert…
Music in Film: Navigating Indie and Studio Production Moderated by Sarah NeelyDate: Saturday, September 28, 2024 @ 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Location: Plaza Theater BackstageDescription: Join us for an engaging panel discussion on the art and business of creating soundtracks for both independent and major studio film and television productions. This session will explore the training required, the creative process, and how composers and music producers can achieve success while working outside the traditional Hollywood system.Panelists: Joseph Metcalfe, Enrique Ponce, Katie…
Producing and Directing a Low-Budget Short Film Moderated by Charles HorakDate: Saturday, September 28, 2024 @ 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM Location: Plaza Theater BackstageDescription: Join us for an in-depth panel discussion on the intricacies of producing and directing low-budget regional short films featuring SAG actors. This session will cover the essential aspects of working closely with local film commissions, coordinating street closures, and utilizing public transportation systems like buses and streetcars in your film. Gain valuable insights from industry professionals…
Creative TV - Producing Television Locally Moderated by Valentin SandovalDate: Saturday, September 28, 2024 @ 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Location: Plaza Theater BackstageDescription: Join us for an insightful panel discussion on the art of producing local television content that authentically represents the communities it serves while maintaining the high production values of national brands. This session will explore the strategies and best practices for creating compelling local TV productions that resonate with viewers and attract advertisers. Panelists: Robert Izquierdo Canino,…
Short Films as a Calling Card Moderated by Tyler RussellDate: Friday, September 27, 2024 @ 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM Location: Plaza Theater BackstageDescription: Join us for an inspiring panel discussion as successful short filmmakers share their strategies for creating impactful independent films. Discover how short films can serve as a powerful learning tool for aspiring filmmakers, provide exposure at prestigious festivals, and act as a compelling calling card for your own filmmaking journey. Don't miss this opportunity to be…
The Actor's Journey Moderated by Roland EsparzaDate: Friday, September 27, 2024 @ 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM Location: Plaza Theater BackstageDescription: Join us for an inspiring panel discussion that delves into the diverse paths actors take to achieve success across independent films, regional productions, and major studio film and television projects. This session will provide valuable insights from seasoned actors and industry professionals, offering practical advice and personal stories that highlight the unique challenges and opportunities in each sector.Panelists: Abe…
Using Stage 32 to Master your Craft Moderated by Carlos De La TorreDate: Friday, September 27, 2024 @ 3:00 PM - 3:45 PM Location: Plaza Theater BackstageDescription: Join us for an enlightening discussion on how filmmakers can leverage the Stage 32 online community to master their craft and further their training through master class certifications. This session will explore the various resources and opportunities available on Stage 32, providing valuable industry insights. Guest: Sam Sokolow, Stage 32 Education Director This free…
Thriving as a Regional Screenwriter - Success Outside Hollywood Moderated by Drew Mayer-OakesDate: Saturday, September 28, 2024 @ 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM Location: Plaza Theater BackstageDescription: Join us for an insightful panel discussion on the unique journey of regional screenwriters who have found success working outside the major film hubs of Hollywood and New York. This session will explore the opportunities and challenges faced by screenwriters in regional markets, offering practical advice and inspiring stories from those who have carved out…
An inanimate house plant with a dark past is tasked with finding a jewel thief, but whenthe most likely suspects are people from the past, the detective has to face their past or get weighed down from dark history.
Deep in the South Texas Borderlands, one high school football player's battle through adversity inspires his teammates, school, and community.
Two C-List actors from different backgrounds attempt to film a sex tape to launch their careers in Hollywood.
A couple awakens in the night to sounds emanating from an unlikely orifice.
A woman living on the U.S./Mexico border invokes the voice of the Rio Grande. Guiding her through the history of migration and the symbiotic relationship with the indigenous people of the land. As the river speaks, echoes follow, ultimately exposing the socio-ecological destruction caused when the river became a border and a political weapon.
A grieving woman communicates with her dead husband through her car radio.
“Concealed and confined, obscure and over-defined. Violently gentle, anything but simple, and yet there is something insatiably primal to it.” Taking Ellar Coltrane’s poetry as a starting point, filmmaker Kevin Ford fashioned the experimental documentary EVERYTHING IS STOLEN—a personal essay, collage, and exploration of a young person discarding the past to become someone new. Along with Coltrane and a few close companions, Ford examines mental health, identity, and existence in a moving, cinematic meditation.
VRDLK (pronounced Vor-Du-Lac) centers around a traveling diplomat who is caught in a snowstorm and forced to take shelter with a poor Serbian family.When the family warns him of “beasts” that hunt in the night, he quickly dismisses their fears as superstition and fairy tales - a mistake he may not have a chance to make twice.Based on acclaimed writer Aleksey Tolstoy's 1839 gothic novella, "The Family of The Vourdulak".
Austin residents relive their memories of a 2013 catastrophic flood in Onion Creek, which was a once-thriving community, but now scarred by disaster. Ten years later, they are determined to prevent history from repeating itself.
Helen and John are artists. They're also contract killers. And they hate the name Gary.
A Bactrian camel dreams of life outside of the well-walked paths of his herd, but the uncharted desert is a treacherous and empty place.
When aspiring screenwriter Julia receives an invitation from the esteemed Eléonore Dubois to discuss her exceptional script, she eagerly accepts. However, as Julia delves into the world of Eléonore, she uncovers dark secrets and realizes that the true cost of success in Hollywood may be more than she bargained for.
A fascinating journey through Mexican culture and spirituality in search of the origins of the Virgin of Guadalupe, an icon that emerged after the shocking clash between Europe and the Mesoamerican peoples. With all its lights and shadows, this ‘brown skinned’ virgin is the first and most important sign of Mexican identity.
A fascinating journey through Mexican culture and spirituality in search of the origins of the Virgin of Guadalupe, an icon that emerged after the shocking clash between Europe and the Mesoamerican peoples. With all its lights and shadows, this ‘brown skinned’ virgin is the first and most important sign of Mexican identity.
A fascinating journey through Mexican culture and spirituality in search of the origins of the Virgin of Guadalupe, an icon that emerged after the shocking clash between Europe and the Mesoamerican peoples. With all its lights and shadows, this ‘brown skinned’ virgin is the first and most important sign of Mexican identity.
Four friends reminisce about their legacy after the wake of their friend's passing. Revelatory private affairs force them to deal with life choices that tangle them closer together in a way they never expected.
When a bruised and battered man claiming to be Santa Clause is arrested for the murder of a child, the interrogating officers uncover a story more bizarre and horrific than expected. A violent Christmas rivalry between the forces of good and evil where the outcome hinges on a promise made decades ago.
Sometimes the ones who need saving, are the ones who save us in return. Miguel, an artist grappling with anxiety and suicidal thoughts finds solace in Mari, a spirited girl with her own hidden struggles. Intertwined delves into the topic of mental health offering hope and the enduring strength that can be found in human connection through the power of love, friendship, and empathy.
When an alien landing mysteriously drives people around the world to achieve their deepest dreams, an aspiring baker in an unhappy marriage wonders why she hasn't been affected at all—forcing her to take matters into her own hands.
Exploring the innate intimacy of submission wrestling, a lifelong wrestler turns his talents into an on-demand fetish video service.
Ramon Riera is taking a well-deserved bath when his cell phone suddenly rings. On the other side of the line is Clara, a girl who insistently tries to sell him a life insurance.
Martina, a young woman battling cancer, feels lost and alone after the death of her father. During a conversation with her friend Ana at a café, Ana suggests joining "the community," a group that, according to her, has brought her freedom and happiness. Although Martina is skeptical, her curiosity leads her to accept the invitation.
Adapted from Larry McMurtry's autobiographical novel, and Quentin Tarantino's favorite book. In 1969 aspiring writer Danny Deck goes to Eeyore's birthday party at Professor Godwin's house in Austin, Texas. On the morning after the party Danny meets Godwin's beautiful girlfriend Sally. He falls in love with her at first sight and complications ensue because "a guest never robs his host."
Ronny and Suly have fallen in love. The only problem is that Ronny is in the US, while Suly is in Guatemala. LOVE IN THE TIME OF MIGRATION illustrates the modern day romance of two individuals from a community deeply impacted by migration to the US, and asks the question -- can love conquer all?
A very hungry woman tells a pizza delivery guy she can't pay for the pizza she ordered. But can the sex she offers instead of currency possibly equate to the true value of a pizza? Is there anything that can be worthy of pizza, aside from what the market has decided? Together the two decide that their only option is to become the pizza object themselves, to make each other into pizza, in order to become free.
When a mystery man offers a job to rectify a wrong his brother has made, a masked man answers the call to mercilessly finish the job once and for all.
After being arrested on a night of partying, Kai Green is presented with an opportunity to forgo jail time in favor of rehabilitation at a facility in Texas - he begrudgingly takes the deal.
Scott Night, a once not-so-popular television actor, must deal with the reality that no one remembers him until he meets his number one fan, Kyle.
A dark comedy about a neurotic but driven 17-year-old Chinese-American violinist on a mission to get admitted to Harvard at any cost. After spotting a mistake in her application at the last minute, she embarks on a midnight rampage through her magnet high school, blackmailing a socially-awkward teenage hacker to deliver the perfect audition for the elusive Dean of Admissions before the deadline.
A young woman journeys back to a cherished bookstore, only to discover the landscape of her nostalgia has drastically transformed. This poignant exploration delves into the heart of loss, resilience, and the bittersweet nature of returning to a place that no longer feels like home.
PERSONAL COURAGE tells the intimate story of Army veteran Jeffrey Derma and his wife, Rebecca Gonzalez, as their marriage reaches a crossroads. Beginning in the final days of Jeff’s military service and continuing through the next two and a half years, the film captures their relationship as they reacclimate to one another and work to reestablish what it means to live life together as a family.
After his beloved rabbit is stolen by an obsessive female boxer, an aging magician is forced to perform a dangerous trick.
A journalist documents the experiences of three different people who lived through the tragic 12-year-long Salvadoran Civil War in the 1980s, exploring themes of childhood loss, violence against women and the indigenous population, and regaining a sense of hope for the future that spans over three generations. Produced by Carlos López Estrada (Dìdi (弟弟), Raya and the Last Dragon)
This documentary revolves around exploring the unique profession of birth photography. It delves into its distinct nature, the preparation it requires, and how a photographer handles its unpredictability from the point of view of “Tampa Bay’s Birth Photographer” Sara Hunter.
Featuring acclaimed Albuquerque, New Mexico poet Marcial Delgado, “Savior” is call to action, a cry for help, and ultimately a harsh indictment of U.S. Immigration policy. Part op-ed, part confrontational oratory, Delgado speaks his truth to a society that routinely vilifies immigrants.
After getting laid off, a young single-mom (Vivian Kerr) finds herself living in her car and struggles to hide her homelessness from her estranged brother Ben (Anthony Rapp) and his wife (Lana Parrilla).
A coming of age adventure-drama that follows RAFAEL and his neighborhood friends (The Squad) who are on the run after pranking the high school baseball team (The Enemies).
After her sister is chosen as a modern day prophet, Jude grapples with the ramifications of what it really means to be an agent of God.
Jack and Mandy are in bed when an unexpected discovery creates tension between them. Mandy questions Jack about his thoughts and past relationships, leading to a revealing conversation. As secrets come to light, including Mandy's own past actions, Jack is left alone with his thoughts and makes a decision about how to move forward.
Max, a college student working on homework late after class, encounters a dark and eerie figure in his deserted classroom building. After a series of unsettling notes and a creepy encounter, Max races to escape the ominous presence, before it catches up to him.
In the semi-autobiographical short film "Super High: A Period Piece," Amanda battles excruciating period pain caused by fibroids. Desperate for relief, she experiments with a celebrity cannabis brand's edibles. A dosage mishap catapults her into a surreal, anxiety-filled journey until she awakens.
Eleven-year-old Katie and her dad reconnect after many years apart, with the help of a mermaid they meet in the San Marcos River.
Greg, an emotionally broken man struggles to battle his inner demons some decide to take a more physical approach and make it challenging for Greg to overcome it.
Four decades ago, the action-packed gem "Lone Wolf McQuade" made its mark on cinema, serving as Chuck Norris' ultimate love letter to El Paso. Widely regarded as one of his finest films, this cult classic is beloved by fans and critics alike. As part of our kickoff celebrations, don’t miss your chance to relive the adrenaline with a live watch-along, hosted by the crew from the hit movie podcast The Action Boyz. Join Jon Gabrus, Ben Rodgers, and Ryan Stanger as…
Janie May, an aspiring country singer stuck in the paycheck-to-paycheck grind, gets big news that she’s a radio contest finalist while finishing her overnight shift at a local diner in Waco, TX.
Following the death of her brother, filmmaker Robie Flores returns to her hometown Eagle Pass on the Texas/Mexico border, wanting to turn back time. She collides with unruly experiences of adolescence – quinceañeras, Rio Grande river excursions, teen makeovers and beyond – that invite her to soak up the details of the home her brother adored and she ignored.
Infamous outlaws The Lily and The Scorpion are on the run after a bank job gone wrong, but as day turns into night, the partners’ trust in each other begins to fray.
Two first-generation Mexican-Americans' reflect on what makes them "Mexican" and "American" after one eventful night.
An aging farmer refuses to leave his longstanding way of life behind at the risk of losing what truly matters to him.
Edgar believes he can see the future, but his wife thinks he's mad, his daughter thinks he's strange, and the agents from double star accounting will stop at nothing to get their data back.
The Strike is a feature documentary that tells the story of a generation of California men who endured decades of solitary confinement and, against all odds, launched the largest hunger strike in U.S. history. "The Strike" premiered at Hot Docs on April 28, 2024. The film has been supported by the Sundance Documentary Fund, Firelight Media, the International Documentary Association (IDA), and others. Awards:Hot Docs | Student Choice Award for Best FilmCine Las Americas | Audience Award for Best Documentary
An up-and-coming writer refuses to leave the spotlight when his best friend and debate opponent suffers cardiac arrest, leading to an obsession over his new opponent and a growing rift with his ailing wife.
In order to evade the law after a robbery, two estranged siblings lay low in a metaphysical farmhouse that hides them away in a different period of time, where they reckon with a mysterious force that pushes their familial bonds to unnatural breaking points.
A woman grappling with difficulty finding sexual pleasure after childbirth falls back on an old coping habit.
A professional dancer must confront her husband after he prevents her from leaving their house and attending a show that could change her career. Please note: This film contains sexual themes and may not be suitable for all audiences. Viewer discretion is advised.
Transwomen face more difficulties in Latin America than in any other part of the world. In most of these countries, unchecked transphobia severely limits trans people’s access to education, employment, housing, and medical services. In Mexico, which has one of the highest murder rates of transwomen in the world, the prosecution of these crimes is regrettably uncommon.
After learning that his son has died at sea trying to get to Spain, Ahmed Tchiche must find a way to get his son’s remains back home to Morocco so he and his family can have a proper goodbye. Faisal Bouhafs, a Moroccan immigrant living in Spain, volunteers to help him.
Come join us for our opening night VIP and Filmmaker evening reception where you’ll get to meet the filmmakers of El Paso Film Festival at the beautiful Alcantar Sky Garden above the Philanthropy Theater. Enjoy drinks and hors d'oeuvres on us.
FILMMAKER OR VIP BADGE REQUIRED FOR ENTRY! Come join us for our 2nd VIP and Filmmaker evening reception where you’ll get to meet the filmmakers of El Paso Film Festival at the El Paso Museum of Art. Enjoy drinks and hors d'oeuvres on us.
FILMMAKER OR VIP BADGE REQUIRED FOR ENTRY! Come join us for our closing night VIP and Filmmaker evening reception where you’ll get to meet the filmmakers of El Paso Film Festival at the El Paso Museum of Art. Enjoy drinks and hors d'oeuvres on us.
When a shy, socially anxious night janitor, cleaning up after Barcelona's affluent party crowd, discovers a mysterious drug that lets her shed the boundaries of her physical self, she breaks out of her isolation and opens herself up to the people she desires... but her newly gained freedom comes at a heavy price.
A night in the life of Felipe, a man who travels Mexico's state of Chihuahua dressed as Santa Claus, delivering gifts to public hospitals. The story explores every aspect of the gift-giving process, from the physical to the emotional.
After receiving death threats from members of the autistic community, Eileen Lamb reflects on her own autism diagnosis, and doubles down on her commitment to fight for greater services for Charlie, her non-verbal autistic son.
When her only son's birthday party is ruined by a runaway pony, a stressed mother deals with the comically chaotic aftermath.