San Diego Latino Film Festival Festival Souvenir Program 2017 by Ethan Thillo

PRESENTED BY

SDLatinofilm.com | 619-230-1938

ORGULLOSAMENTE APOYANDO EL FESTIVAL DEL CINE LATINO

TODOS LOS CAMINOS LLEVAN A SUNROAD AUTO

WWW.SUNROADAUTO.COM

WELCO M E B I ENV ENI D O

¡Bienvenidos! Uncertain times call for us to turn to cherished traditions that celebrate diversity and unite communities. For the last 24 years, the San Diego Latino Film Festival has not only been a celebration of cinema and art, but an event that highlights -and welcomes- the varied perspectives, identities, and experiences that define the Latino community. Consider this edition of the festival your homecoming, we are thrilled you could join us! We are all familia! On the big screen each festival, we’ve thankfully become familiar to seeing Demián Bichir, Gael Garcia Bernal, Barbara Mori, Eva Longoria and others, who’ve made us laugh, cry, scream, and even sing through the years. Along with screen celebrities, we have an extended family that we’re always indebted to: long-time volunteers, students, board members, and staff who return each year. Community organizations come together, and annual ticket supporters gather to discuss great film and celebrate Latino culture with music, arts and delicious cuisine. During challenging times for our country and the world, we are reminded that familia and community ARE the most important things. Stay close to your loved ones and cherish every moment; and support those in our communities who are most in need. Throughout the eleven days of SDLFF 2017, enjoy great cinema; celebrate what makes our region truly great; and help create a new mainstream media that expresses what the Latino experience is really about. By all means necessary, document, produce and distribute the stories we want to have told! Vamos a unirnos! It’s time to unite! - Let’s continue building bridges and breaking down barriers by celebrating cinema. Sincerely,

Ethan van Thillo, Executive Director/Founder

TA B L E OF C ONTENTS BIENVENIDO... PAGE 3

CINE GAY... PAGE 34

COMMUNITY PARTNERS... PAGE 4

UN MUNDO EXTRAÑO SHOWCASE... PAGE 35

FESTIVAL STAFF... PAGE 5

DIGITAL GYM ON THE BOULEVARD... PAGE 37

SPONSORS... PAGE 6-7

ARTURO RIPSTEIN TRIBUTE... PAGE 38

TICKET INFORMATION... PAGE 9

MARÍA ROJO TRIBUTE... PAGE 39

PARTIES... PAGE 10

MANOLO CARO TRIBUTE... PAGE 39

MEXICO TODAY SHOWCASE... PAGE 12

LATINO PUBLIC BROADCASTING PRESENTS... PAGE 41

YOUTH VISIONS... PAGE 13

SCHEDULE OF FILMS ... PAGE 42-43

SPOTLIGHT FILMS SHOWCASE... PAGE 14-17

SABOR LATINO ... PAGE 44-45

FRONTERAS FILMMAKERS SHOWCASE... PAGE 18

¡TU CINE!... PAGE 46

COUNTRY OF FOCUS SHOWCASE: BRAZIL... PAGE 21

VIVA MUJERES... PAGE 48

SONIDO & ARTE LATINO... PAGE 22

EL CORAZÓN SHOWCASE... PAGE 50

US LATINO FILM SHOWCASE... PAGE 25

NARRATIVE FILM SYNOPSES.. PAGE 52-65

PARA LA FAMILIA... PAGE 28

DOCUMENTARY FILM SYNOPSES... PAGE 67-73

¡DOCUMANÍA!... PAGE 30-31

SHORT PROGRAM SYNOPSES... PAGE 75-80

PANTELION PRESENTS SHOWCASE... PAGE 32

INDEX... PAGE 82

COMMUNITY PARTNERS Af3irm (need to confirm) www.af3irm.org

Horrible Imaginings Film Festival www.hifilmfest.com

Omo Ache www. Omoachecubanculture.org

Big Brothers Big Sisters Of San Diego County www.sdbigs.org

House of Puerto Rico www. houseofpuertorico.com

Para Buena Onda www.purabuenaonda.com

BORDER ANGELS www.borderangels.org

House of Mexico www.houseofmexico.org

Urban Tango www.urban-tango.com

Brazilian Futebol Academy www.BFAsoccer.com

Indieflix www.indieflix.com

Samba Cuisine www.cuisinesamba.com

Center for Latin American Studies www. latinamericanstudies.sdsu.edu

Loftin & Masri, APC. www.loftinmasrilaw.com

San Diego Brazilian Productions www.brazilcarnival.com

Filmout San Diego www.filmoutsandiego.com

MANA San Diego www.manasd.org

San Diego Italian Film Festival www.sandiegoitalianfilmfestival.com

San Diego County Hispanic Chamber Of Commerce www.sdchcc.org

Medium Festival of Photography www.mediumsandiego.org

The Worldview Project/San Diego Participant Observer www.worldviewproject.org

FESTI VAL STAFF FESTIVAL STAFF

MEDIA ARTS CENTER SAN DIEGO

Ethan Van Thillo, Founder/Executive Director Moises Esparza, Programming Manager Juan Lopez, Exhibitions Coordinator Rosana Marques, Marketing Coordinator Larissa Vega, Talent Relations Manager Laura Castañeda, Press Coordinator Allison Lambert, Festival Operations Manager Keli Palleres, Talent Relations Assistant Michael Onzurez, Party Planner Luis Gonzalez, Chair - 2017 Festival Advisory Committee Andy Gonzalez, Arte Latino Saul Silva, Sonido Latino Paola Hernández-Jiao, Festival Ambassador / Host Mario Alvarado, Web Design Franko Rosas & Adrian Orozco, Graphic Design Greg Penetrante, Technology Associate Helen Guzman, Will Call Maria DiGregorio, Will Call Alvaro Avila, Sabor Latino Chef Coordinator Sonya Zhong, Sabor Latino Coordinator Miguel Rodriguez, Guest Festival Programmer Ruben Reyes, Theater Manager Yakira Delgadillo, Theater Manager Amanda Milton, Box Office Representative Monique Delgadillo, Box Office Representative Anissa Ruiz, Box Office Representative Rebecca Romani, Catalogue Writer

Amanda Barcena, Operations Associate Ryan Kuratomi, Media Director Brian Myers, Production and Programs Manager Kania Hayes, Teen Producers & Youth Media Program Coordinator Larry Da Silveira, Education Coordinator Marco Chavez, Cinema Associate Kristian Perez-Franco, Cinema Associate Alan Peralta, Cinema Associate Cylan Shaffer, Cinema Associate Shanna Trenholm, Development Maria Hesse, Development Jodi Cilley, Teen Producers Instructor Alexandra Wesser, Teen Producers Instructor Kay Gibbs, Youth Media and One on One Instructor Christopher Simon, Youth Media Instructor Gabriela Espinal, Youth Media Instructor Evan Apodaca, Youth Media Instructor

FILM FESTIVAL SELECTION COMMITTEE Kevin Mitchell Bryan Hayes Yakira Delgadillo Cristhian Troncoso Keli Palleres Bertha Alicia Aguilar Garcia

Maria Elena Delgado Teresa Rinaldi Diego Robles Cuauhtemoc Ruelas Danny Soley

POSTER SELECTION COMMITTEE Professor Sean Bacon (San Diego City College) Alexis Emilio Contreras (Graphic Designer at SixteenFifty Creative Intelligence) Professor Patricia Cue (San Diego State University) Andy Gonzalez (La Onda Arte) Professor Courtney Mayer (Point Loma Nazarene University Professor) Bennett Peji (Bennett Peji Design Brand) Adolfo Ventura (MAAC & MACSD Board Member)

JURY Livia Bloom, Icarus Films Jean-Cosme Delaloye, Filmmaker Justin Di Pietro, IFC Films Karina Garcia, Filmmaker Guillermo Zouain, Filmmaker José Paredes, Filmmaker

INTERNS / VOLUNTEERS: Abril Aguayo Daniela Asanza Ivana Arias Ana Carrillo Deseree Darby Yakira Delgadillo Miriam Figueroa Kay Gibbs

Roxana Gutierrez Bryan Hayes Jose Islas Jennifer Lopez Karima Masri Kevin Mitchell Joana Montoya Pablo Perez

Aldo Sandoval Amanda San Martin Sumire Shimomura Pamela Tallafuss Cristhian Troncoso Karina Yee Guancheng Zhu

MEDIA ARTS CENTER SAN DIEGO BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Luis Gonzalez, President Wells Fargo

Raquel Aispuro Ross

Daniel Cruz Gonzalez, Vice President Retired

Randy Reinholz San Diego State University

Adolfo Ventura, Treasurer MAAC

John Kiladis San Diego Gas & Electric

Judy Harper, Secretary Community Partners

Carlos Correa San Diego 6 News

Linda Caballero-Sotelo New Americans Museum

Kritarth Yudhish Qualcomm, Inc.

Vicki Estrada Estrada Land Planning

Gustavo Rios, PE Attorney at Law

Don Dean MiraCosta College

Paul Espinosa Espinosa Productions

Vanessa Barron Marketing Executive Francisco Mata San Ysidro School District

S P ON S O R S

SP O NSO RS

T I CK ET I NFO RM ATI O N BOX OFFICES:

PASSES & TICKET PACKS:

Digital Gym Cinema North Park Starting March 1st, tickets for all festival movie screenings (both at AMC Fashion Valley 18 and at Digital Gym Cinema North Park), can be purchased at MACSD’s Digital Gym Cinema. Location: 2921 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego, CA 92104 Box Office Hours: 9AM-9PM Monday thru Friday and 11:30AM-9PM on Saturday and Sunday.

$45.00 5-Movie Ticket Pack

AMC Fashion Valley 18 Starting March 16th, tickets and passes may be purchased at the film festival’s Box Office Tent located directly in front of AMC Fashion Valley 18 (7037 Friars Rd., San Diego, CA 92108). Box Office Hours: 3:15pm-10:15pm daily. Tickets are also available online at: http://2017.sdlatinofilm.com/tickets Online sales can be picked up at the SDLFF Will Call / Box Office tent in front of AMC Fashion Valley 18 and/or at Digital Gym Cinema North Park starting March 16th. ID Required.

TICKET PRICES:

$110 FILM PASS Includes: - Entrance to 11 films - Access to the VIP Priority Seating Line. Limit two per customer. The Film Pass is NON-TRANSFERABLE – a $126.50 value. Film Pass holders will receive 11 digital vouchers that must be redeemed for tickets to specific screenings. The Film Pass does NOT allow access to auditoriums without a ticket but provides you with the benefit of PREFERRED SEATING up to 20 minutes prior to showtime. Digital vouchers may be redeemed for tickets at the Concierge Desk / Will Call at AMC 18 Fashion Valley Cinema at Fashion Valley, starting on March 16th or online as soon as tickets are available. Make your film selections as early to ensure availability for popular screenings.

$225 VIP ALL ACCESS FESTIVAL PASS + PARTIES

General Admission – $11.50 Senior/Student/Military – $9.50 Member rate – $8.50 Please note: No discounts offered for any festival primetime screenings (7-9:30pm) except for MACSD / Cine Club Members. SDLFF 2017 will be using an online ticketing system for advanced sales. So, there IS a convenience fee of $1.00 per movie ticket & $2 per Film or All-Access Festival Passes bought on-line. No convenience fee if you buy at the door. Order online or call our office today! 619-230-1938, juan@mediaartscenter.org

SPECIAL! GROUP SALES!

Looking to buy multiple tickets? Buy with a group and get discounts: Qty 10 – 25 26 – 50

See any 5 movies for only $45! Get the Movie Ticket Pack of five vouchers today. Limit two per customer. A $57.50 value!

Price Each $8.50 $7.50

Savings $3.50 $4.50

Buyer agrees that group sales tickets cannot be used for shows between 7pm – 9:30pm Mon-Sun). Tickets are non-transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash. See festival staff for further information. All group sales tickets must be made in advance and are not sold at the box office. Group sales tickets must be purchased in person at: MEDIA ARTS Center San Diego, 2921 El Cajon Blvd. San Diego, CA 92104

Includes: - OVER 160 programs - Access to the Priority Seating Line which grants early admittance to every show - VIP receptions - Awards Ceremony, - Entrance to Opening Night and Closing Night after parties - Sabor Latino Food, Beer & Wine Festival. Limit two per customer. The Festival Pass is NON-TRANSFERRABLE – a $1,400 value ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Pass holders will be allowed preferred entrance into theatres up to 20 minutes prior to showtime or until the pass holder allotment has been reached. Early arrival to all screenings is recommended. Passes do NOT guarantee seating and pass holders may not always be able to attend the film program of their first choice. Please be at your seat by the scheduled start time of your film. Empty seats may be re-sold after posted start time to accommodate rush line patrons.

CONCIERGE DESK / WILL CALL After you have purchased your pass or tickets online, you will receive an email confirmation. Please bring your confirmation email along with your ID to pick-up your order at the 2017 San Diego Latino Film Festival Concierge Desk / Will Call Station at AMC Fashion Valley 18, Fashion Valley, 7037 Friars Road, San Diego, CA 92108 beginning March 16th at 4PM. During the festival the SDLFF 2016 Box Office & Will Call will be open from 4:00PM – 10 PM and on weekends from 11 AM – 10 PM.

For more information, visit sdlatinofilm.com or call (619) 230-1938.

SPECIAL EVENTS (PARTIES & SABOR LATINO):

PARTIES

Sabor Latino Food, Beer & Wine Festival at Fashion Valley Mall (in front of River Plaza) March 19th, Saturday, 1-5pm.

OPENING NIGHT Location: The Historic Abbey 2825 5th Ave, San Diego, CA 92103 Time: 8:00PM - 12:00AM General Admission Tickets $15 Ticket before March 1st, 2017 $20 Ticket between March 1st – March 16th, 2017 $30 Ticket at door $80 VIP Table

ADMISSION COST: Come as a VIP! VIPs enjoy early entrance and exclusive access to our Harrah’s VIP Experience! Early Bird (before March 1st) VIP: $45 General Admission: $35 Designated Driver: $20

After March 1st & Day Of VIP: $50 General Admission: $40 Designated Driver: $25

VIP Celebrity Lounge Ticket Sponsored by STELLA $30 Ticket before March 1st, 2017 $40 Ticket between March 1st – March 16th, 2017 $50 Ticket at door – Includes: – Admission Ticket – 1 complimentary Stella Beer – Light appetizers – Access to VIP Celebrity Lounge

CLOSING NIGHT Location: Mezé Greek Fusion 345 6th Ave Downtown, San Diego, CA 92101 Time: 9:30PM - 2:00AM General Admission Tickets $15 Ticket before March 8th $20 Ticket between March 8th – March 25th $30 Ticket at door $80 VIP Tables

Disclaimer: Some films may be presented without English subtitles.

MEX I C O T O DAY SHOWCA SE PRESENTED BY

This year’s Mexico Today Showcase highlights the richly textured and unique cinema being produced in Mexico. Some of the films offer insight into the current state of affairs of Mexico through their examinations of bureaucracy, modern family dynamics, and the conditions of the working class. Others, offer historical perspectives of the Mexican experience. Together, they create the most dynamic Mexico Today Showcase to date. EL ALIEN Y YO Dir. Jesús Magaña (Mexico, 83 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Comedy) 3/24 / 8:20 / S10 • 3/26 / 1:10 / S9

A punk band hires a keyboard player with Down syndrome to improve their sound. Soon after the band reaches the top of the music scene, jealousy threatens to tear them apart.

LA HABITACIÓN Dirs. Carlos Carrera, Daniel Giménez Cacho, Carlos Bolado, Ernesto Contreras, Alfonso Pineda Ulloa, Alejandro Valle, Iván Ávila, Natalia Beristáin (Mexico, 124 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/18 / 7:10 / S1 • 3/20 / 4:00 / DGC • 3/26 / 4:00 / S3

In this anthology film, eight directors capture 100 years of Mexican history through the eyes of those who have occupied the same room at different time periods. This unforgettable film features segments directed by Daniel Giménez Cacho and Carlos Carrera with amazing performances from Sofia Espinoza, Noe Hernández, and Osvaldo de León.

MACHO Dir. Antonio Serrano (Mexico, 100 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Comedy) 3/18 / 7:45 / S9 • 3/19 / 1:50 / S10 • 3/21 / 8:00 / DGC

Antonio Serrano (Sexo, pudor y lágrimas) directs an all-star cast including Miguel Rodarte, Cecilia Suárez, Ana de la Reguera, and Aislinn Derbez in this uproarious comedy about a bad boy of the fashion industry who reveals several falsehoods about his identity--including his sexuality-- through a documentary being made about his life. MAQUINARIA PANAMERICANA Dir. Joaquin del Paso (Mexico, 88 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Dark Comedy) 3/18 / 1:45 / S3 • 3/21 / 4:30 / S9

When you work for Maquinaria Panamericana, you’re part of the family. It’s hard to think of a better workplace. However, one Friday afternoon, as the workers are winding down and preparing for the weekend ahead, they find their boss’s dead body in a warehouse. This discovery leads to a multitude of other life-altering situations. How do you react to a death in the family, to the end of an era? You lock the gates tightly, and you look for solutions. TIEMPO SIN PULSO

LA CARGA

Dir. Bárbara Ochoa Castañeda (Mexico, 80 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/20 / 4:30 / S9 • 3/24 / 4:15 / S10

Dir. Alan Jonsson (Mexico / Spain, 94 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama / Romance) 3/22 / 6:45 / S10 • 3/26 / 7:45 / DGC

The aftermath of a tragedy looms heavily over Bruno and his family, particularly in the way they handle interpersonal relationships. Bruno’s grief manifests itself by prohibiting him from exploring intimacy with the opposite sex. After the return of a former girlfr iend, Bruno begins the process of relieving himself from guilt and embraces the opportunity to begin making new emotional connections.

In this historical epic set at the end of the 16th century, a Tameme Indian and a woman from the Spanish nobility embark on an epic journey in search of justice. During their travels, the intense nature of their relationship develops into an unshakeable bond in this adventure story filled with action and romance.

TODO LO DEMÁS

DÍA SEIS Dir. Juan Pablo Arroyo Abraham (Mexico, 102 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/17 / 9:05 / S9 • 3/25 / 5:45 / S10

Carmen is trapped between the love she feels for Pablo and the relationship she has with Joaquín. When she unexpectedly falls ill, Carmen decides to take a trip with one of them, altering their lives forever.

Dir. Natalia Almada (Mexico, 98 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/16 / 4:15 / S10 • 3/19 / 7:25 / DGC • 3/26 / 6:45 / S3

Doña Flor is a bureaucrat. It is in everything she is: her nondescript beige blouse, practical heels, and knee-length skirts. For over three decades, she has waited on frustrated and indignant citizens to whom she is nothing but an invisible, lifeless servant, returning each evening to her cat and solitary apartment where she makes obsessive lists of the people she waited on during the day. Inspired by Hannah Arendt’s idea that bureaucracy is one of the worst forms of violence, Todo lo demás explores the interior life of Doña Flor as she attempts to resurface.

YO UTH V I SI O NS Media Arts Center San Diego presents a collection of youth-produced projects from young filmmakers who use movies as their primary method of artistic expression. This handpicked selection of short films features both fiction and nonfiction pieces, produced by filmmakers of varying levels of experience, addressing a range of topics including immigration, politics, health, the arts, gentrification, and more. 3/25 / 2:00pm / S1 MIRACLE BABY (5 MIN) BY REEL VOICES Sienna explores the love her family has for her, even though it’s a family based on choice, not blood.

NORTH PARK MURALS (4 MIN) BY MACSD & HIGH TECH HIGH INTERNS Highlights the positive impact of the colorful murals painted on the walls of businesses in North Park and their effect on the community. BEHIND THE WALL (5 MIN) BY KIARA RAMIREZ A short documentary on the lives of immigrant workers in Northern California vineyards. BURNOUTS (5 MIN) BY MACSD TEEN PRODUCERS PROJECT In order to save their relationship, a puppet couple quits smoking, only to find out the withdrawal symptoms are stronger than they ever imagined. CHICANA ART GALLERY (3 MIN) BY MACSD TEEN PRODUCERS PROJECT An inspiring interview with artist and gallery owner, Cesar Castaneda, founder of Chicana Art Gallery in Barrio Logan, about the connection between community, art, and culture. CICLOSDIAS (2 MIN) BY MACSD TEEN PRODUCERS PROJECT Take a ride into the heart of City Heights with TPP as they document CicloSDias, an open-road initiative that allows members of the community to roam the streets freely, inspiring active transportation such as walking, jogging, biking and cycling. This film highlights the importance of access to active transportation and the role such access plays in healthier living for all citizens.

ON MY WAY FOR AN EDUCATION (5 MIN) BY MAAC COMMUNITY CHARTER SCHOOL Created by students in the ACLU San Diego Youth Activists for Change program at MAAC Community Charter School, with guidance from local film artist Reynaldo Escoto, this stop-motion film chronicles the story of two fictional students as they confront the challenges of their daily commute to school, their binational experience, and their resistance to the racist and classist forces they face. ROBOT LIVES MATTER (4 MIN) BY MACSD TEEN PRODUCERS PROJECT A group of robots and a group of humans prepare to play a boardgame in a world where both groups look down upon each other. SIN MADRE (3 MIN) BY BAY AREA VIDEO COALITION A loving tribute to a working mother who struggles to work, support her family, and be a mother. SLIDE (5 MIN) BY JAYDEN GILLESPIE A film about racial prejudice and how family dynamics have changed in modern society.

DEAR AMERICA (5 MIN) BY HARVARD-WESTLAKE SCHOOL A dialogue has been opened between the U.S. and Cuba. Two U.S. teen journalists travel to Cuba and ask local Cubans, “What would you like Americans to know about you?”

STEALING HOME (4 MIN) BY HARVARD-WESTLAKE SCHOOL Baseball may be America’s favorite past time, but to Cubans, it means even more. Three teen sports enthusiasts travel to Cuba and speak to scholars and fans to learn more about the legacy of baseball in Cuba.

ENRIQUE MORONES AND BORDER ANGELS (4 MIN) BY MACSD TEEN PRODUCERS PROJECT Enrique Morones is a community activist saving the lives of immigrants who risk everything to cross the U.S.-Mexico border in search of better opportunities to support their families. Morones talks about his organization, Border Angels, and why he has an organization dedicated to advocating for and saving the lives of immigrants.

TRUST (12 MIN) BY SOUTH SIDE FYI A vulnerable teen is torn between trusting her best friend's advice or her boyfriend's desires. Despite Maria's doubts, she goes with her gut and does the unthinkable. Will risky choices lead to a devastating reality?

HIGH STAKES (5 MIN) BY MACSD TEEN PRODUCERS PROJECT This short documentary takes a look at the statewide initiative Betting On Our Future (BOOF) and the students in the program who advocate for an increased awareness of problem gambling. I DON’T WANT TO SALSA WITH YOU (5 MIN) BY MAYSLES DOCUMENTARY CENTER A profile of Melissa Minchala, a Latina CEO of a tech company.

UNDISPUTED (3 MIN) BY MACSD TEEN PRODUCERS PROJECT & AJA PROJECT Undisputed is a gym in City Heights that teaches boxing to local youth who need to let off some steam. The program has been incredibly successful in what they say provides an opportunity for fitness and empowers the bully not to be a bully. “I used to do a lot of street fights, because of my anger, but coming here, working out, fighting with your friends, hugging out at the end of the fight, it keeps you out of trouble.”

INTO SERGIO (3 MIN) BY MT. PLEASANT HIGH SCHOOL Teenaged Sergio Conriquez is trying to accomplish his dream of becoming a software engineer, knowing that Latinos represent less than 3% of employees in Silicon Valley’s technology industry. Sergio speaks about his parents’ struggles, the history of his hometown, and how these things have helped to shape his life as a young Latino

VICTOR OCHOA: SAN DIEGO’S LEGENDARY MURALIST (4 MIN) BY MACSD TEEN PRODUCERS PROJECT A founding Chicano Park muralist who continues to advocate for immigrant rights and representation through his art, Victor Ochoa has overcome countless barriers but is now a U.S. citizen highly recognized for his contributions to San Diego’s art culture and as an arts educator working with youth in all corners of the city.

KANSAS STREET (2 MIN) BY MACSD & HIGH TECH HIGH INTERNS Learn about Vision Zero's mission to reduce traffic fatalities by installing a crosswalk at a busy intersection along El Cajon Boulevard.

WE ALL CAN: CONCHITA’S STORY (6 MIN) BY HARVARD-WESTLAKE SCHOOL An an uplifting story about the hopes and dreams of a Mayan girl in Guatemala transforming her life through education.

LOCALLY GROWN HEALTH BENEFITS AT FARMER’S MARKET (2 MIN) BY MACSD TEEN PRODUCERS PROJECT A true community piece, this short documentary visits the City Heights Farmer’s Market, chronicling the intent of the local farmers and vendors. It highlights the importance of transcending socio-economic status to obtain access to healthy foods so that all people can maintain a healthier lifestyle.

“WELCOME” TO AMERICA (7 MIN) BY MAYSLES DOCUMENTARY CENTER A young immigrant from the Dominican Republic talks about growing up in Washington Heights, a neighborhood in the New York City borough of Manhattan.

LOVE AND MUSIC (5 MIN) BY HARVARD-WESTLAKE SCHOOL Cuba is known for its expressive music, but how did the revolution affect musicians’ freedom of speech through their music? Three American teen musicians delve into the matter through interviews with scholars and contemporary Cuban musical artists.

WHAT A WOMAN’S SUPPOSED TO LOOK LIKE (1 MIN) BY BAY AREA VIDEO COALITION A personal look at the stress surrounding body image and beauty standards.

SP O T L I G H T FI LM S SHOWCA SE PRESENTED BY LA CASA ROSADA Dir. Palito Ortega Matute (Peru, 106 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/17 / 4:30 / S9 • 3/18 / 1:10 / S10

The biggest showcase of the 24th edition of the San Diego Latino Film Festival can thank its size to the high volume of quality, award-winning, envelope-pushing, and thought-provoking Latino films being produced in North America, South America, and Europe. This showcase represents the very best of what Latino cinema has to offer, perfectly balancing the fine line between broad appeal and artistic sensibility. Prepare to laugh, cry, ask questions, be challenged, and above all, bear witness to unforgettable and diverse Latino experiences. Featuring unforgettable performances from Demián Bichir, Eva Longoria, Rodrigo de la Serna, Gael García Bernal, Karla Souza, and many others. AL FINAL DEL TUNEL Dir. Rodrigo Grande (Spain / Argentina, 120 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Thriller) 3/18 / 2:30 / S1 • 3/25 / 8:35 / S2

A paraplegic computer engineer discovers that his neighbors are digging a tunnel to rob the bank next to his apartment. When he realizes the woman renting the spare bedroom in his apartment is an accomplice to the thieves, he begins to understand the danger he finds himself in. EL AMPARO Dir. Rober Calzadilla (Venezuela/Colombia, 99 minutes, 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/16 / 4:45 / S3 • 3/19 / 3:00 / DGC • 3/23 / 4:15 / S10

During the late 1980’s, on the Venezuelan / Colombian border, two men survive an armed assault in the bed of the Arauca River. The men claim they were attacked by the Venezuelan military but authorities try to frame them as guerillas, resulting in a schism in their community.

During the 1980’s in Ayacucho, Peru, a man is accused of being a terrorist and held captive by the armed forces. His children begin a relentless search for their father as they race against time to save him before it’s too late. EL CIUDADANO ILUSTRE Dirs. Gastón Duprat, Mariano Cohn (Spain / Argentina, 118 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Comedy / Drama) 3/16 / 6:30 / S10 • 3/22 / 7:50 / DGC • 3/24 / 7:30 / S1

After refusing a series of prestigious awards from all over the world, Mr. Mantovani, a recipient of the Nobel Prize for Literature, accepts an invitation to visit his hometown in Argentina, the source of inspiration for his books. Accepting the invitation turns out to be a mistake when Mr. Mantovani comes face to face with the individuals he has been writing about.

UN CUENTO DE CIRCO AND A LOVE SONG Dir. Demián Bichir (Mexico, 114 min., 2016, English; Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/16 / 7:00 / S3 • 3/19 / 11:15AM / S10 • 3/23 / 8:10 / DGC

In Demián Bichir’s directorial debut, Refugio does not know that Juan, the man who saved his life is, in fact, his own father. Fate has brought them face to face thirty years after Juan abandoned their circus, bearing a terrible secret. This is a tale about the possibility of love, redemption and fate, starring Demián Bichir, Eva Longoria, José Angel Bichir, Stefanie Sherk, and Arcelia Ramírez. EL ELEGIDO Dir. Antonio Chavarrías (Spain / Mexico, 120 min., 2016, English, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama/Thriller) 3/24 / 8:30 / S9

Alfonso Herrera (SENSE8, LA DICTADURA PERFECTA) stars in this dramatic thriller about Ramón Mercader, the Spanish born Soviet agent tasked with carrying out Leon Trotsky’s assassination. ESTEBAN Dir. Jonal Cosculluela (Cuba, 90 min., 2015, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/16 / 6:00 / DGC • 3/21 / 8:15 / S10

Nine-year- old Esteban lives alone with his mother in the harsh environment of contemporary Cuba. Seeking to overcome his surroundings, Esteban pursues his dream of becoming a pianist, backed by nothing but hope and persistence. INSEPARABLES Dir. Marcos Carnevale (Argentina, 108 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Comedy) 3/19 / 7:20 / S1 • 3/26 / 7:00 / S1

Rodrigo de la Serna and Oscar Martínez star in this heartwarming remake of the French hit The Intouchables. When wealthy quadriplegic businessman (Martínez) needs to hire a new assistant, he makes the surprising move of selecting his gardener’s assistant (de la Serna), resulting in an unlikely friendship.

SPO TLIGHT FILMS SHOWCASE LA LARGA NOCHE DE FRANCISCO SANCTIS Dir. Francisco Márquez, Andrea Testa (Argentina, 80 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/19 / 1:30 / S9 • 3/20 / 6:15 / S10

Buenos Aires, 1977. Francisco Sanctis, a family man living an eventless life, receives information about an upcoming kidnapping operation planned by soldiers of the dictatorship. In a race against time, Francisco has to make the most important decision of his life: will he try to save innocent lives by risking his own? Official Selection Cannes Film Festival 2016. In Competition. LOWRIDERS Dir. Ricardo de Montreuil (USA, 98 min., 2016, English, Drama) 3/25 / 7:30 / S1

NERUDA

A talented graffiti artist gets caught in the middle of the rift between his recovering alcoholic father and his recently incarcerated brother as they prepare for a prestigious car show. Lowriders is a celebration of family, community, and lowrider culture starring Oscar nominee Demián Bichir, Eva Longoria, Theo Rossi, and Gabriel Chavarria. EL MALQUERIDO Dir. Diego Risquez (Venezuela, 120 min., 2015, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/17 / 8:15 / S10 • 3/19 / 4:10 / S10

This biopic of Felipe Perila, known as “El Bolerista de America,” follows his trajectory from humble beginnings to stardom, highlighting the highs and lows of his personal life.

Dir. Pablo Larraín (Chile / Argentina / France / Spain / USA, 107 min., 2016, Spanish, French w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/19 / 11:45AM / S3 • 3/22 / 4:15 / S10 • 3/25 / 3:30 / DGC

Chile, 1948. When Communism is made illegal, poet and politician Pablo Neruda (Luis Gnecco) becomes an outlaw. Pursued by a strait-laced police investigator (Gael García Bernal), Neruda must stay one step ahead of the authorities while using his poetry to fight the rise of fascism in Latin America. From Pablo Larraín, director of No and the Oscar-nominated Jackie.

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SP O T L I G H T FI LM S SHOWCA SE

ONYX Dir. Nicolás Teté (Argentina, 76 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/17 / 4:15 / S10 • 3/26 / 5:40 / S2

After twelve years away, Martina and her mother travel to Villa Mercedes where their relatives live, including cousins whom she has not seen since childhood. Their mothers have a distant relationship due to problems in the family business. A tragedy allows the cousins to bond as they embark on a journey to reconnect with one another.

EL PRIMERO DE LA FAMILIA Dir. Carlos Leiva (Chile, 80 min, 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/16 / 9:50 / S2 • 3/18 / 1:00 / S9 • 3/21 / 6:00 / DGC

In a chilean suburb, Tomás spends the last weekend with family before travelling to Europe to continues his studies. A problem with the plumbing causes severe flooding in their house, and the bad smell moves through the house uncovering the real essence of the family´s relationships.

OSCURO ANIMAL Dir. Felipe Guerrero (Colombia / Argentina / Germany / Greece, 107 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/18 / 5:00 / S9 • 3/23 / 8:30 / S9

Oscuro Animal tells the story of three women forced to flee their homes in a war-torn region of Colombia. Each woman’s journey, marked by terror, takes her on a trek from the depths of the jungle to the outskirts of Bogotá, where each must gather the strength needed to start a new life. In Competition.

PARIENTE Dir. Iván Gaona (Colombia, 115 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Thriller) 3/16 / 7:15 / S2 • 3/19 / 9:00 / S10

While the demobilization process of an illegal armed group is taking place in rural Colombia, a town leader plays a risky game with the local paramilitaries for protection money. When truck driver Willington realizes the love of his life, Mariana, is about to get married to his cousin Rene, they get caught in a situation that rapidly slips out of control. In Competition.

PEPO PAL SENADO Dir.Raúl García (Puerto Rico, 122 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Comedy / Musical) 3/19 / 4:45 / S1

In this political satire, a ruthless political adviser sets out to prove her claim that she can get anyone elected to the Senate by setting her sights on Pepo González, an ordinary, unemployed citizen.

¿QUE CULPA TIENE EL NIÑO? Dir. Gustavo Loza (Mexico, 105 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Romantic Comedy) 3/17 / 9:55 / S2 • 3/22 / 9:00 / S2 • 3/24 / 5:15 / S1

Maru (Karla Souza) is a successful executive who ends up sharing a passionate night with an aimless 21-year-old. Several weeks later, Maru finds out that she is pregnant and the two must put aside their differences and begin planning for their future. ROSA CHUMBE Dir. Jonatan Relayze (Peru, 73 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/19 / 2:00 / S2 • 3/20 / 6:40 / DGC

Rosa is a put-upon police officer who has a tempestuous relationship with her daughter. One day, Rosa’s savings are stolen and her daughter is nowhere to be found. Rosa is left to care for her grandson. The universe has more surprises in store for Rosa as she realizes only a miracle can save her from her current situation.

SPO TLIGHT FILMS SHOWCASE X500 Dir. Juan Andrés Arango Garcia (Canada / Colombia / Mexico, 104 min., 2016, English; Spanish, French, Mazahua, Tagalog w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/16 / 9:30 / S9 • 3/19 / 5:40 / S2 • 3/21 / 5:00 / S1 • 3/22 / 9:00 / S10

Thousands of kilometers apart (in Colombia, Mexico, and Canada), three young migrants undergo mental, emotional and physical transformations in order to survive the circumstances in their new worlds.

SIN MUERTOS NO HAY CARNAVAL Dir. Sebastián Cordero (Ecuador / Mexico / Germany, 100 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/20 / 8:20 / DGC • 3/22 / 6:55 / S2

In Guayaquil, a young man attempts to evict the many squatters who have settled on the land he inherited from his father. A story of ambition, corruption, treason, entanglements and everything that comes with the search for power within a society and within a family. In Competition. VICO C: LA VIDA DEL FILÓSOFO Dir. Eduardo Ortiz (Puerto Rico, 120 min., 2017, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/16 / 6:45 / S9 • 3/18 / 1:05 / DGC

In Eduardo Ortiz’s (LOS DOMIRRIQUEÑOS) latest, the rise to stardom of Reggaeton’s founding father, Vico C, is captured with vivid and exciting detail. In Competition.

SPECIAL PRESENTATION OF AMBASSADOR & HOST

PAOLA HERNÁNDEZ-JIAO EDITOR, LATINA LIFE AND STYLE

Paola Hernández-Jiao is editor of Latina Life And Style, a lifestyle, fashion, beauty, and motherhood blog. Prior to launching Latina Life And Style, Paola spent more than ten years working in media, and was a television producer and host for Azteca San Diego and ABC Channel 10. Her career has included management positions in politics, the private industry, and regional non-profit organizations, as well as newspaper columnist. She has received multiple Emmy Award nominations for her work, as well as regional and statewide awards and recognitions for her commitment to serve the community. Paola is bi-cultural and bilingual (English/Spanish) and enjoys using her skills to contribute to non-profit organizations. She has volunteered on multiple Boards of Directors. Currently, she volunteers on the Salvation Army’s Public Relations Board, Mana de San Diego’s Latina Success Conference, and the San Diego Latino Film Festival. She has a bachelor’s degree in International Business and a Master of Business Administration degree. Paola lives in San Diego with her husband and their daughter.

YO SOY UN POLÍTICO Dir. Javier Colón Ríos (Puerto Rico, 90 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Comedy) 3/26 / 2:30 / S1

Carlos is an ex-convict looking for a job where he can make a lot of money without putting in a lot of work. After discussing it with his cellmate; Cangri; they decide that the only job that fits that description is governor of Puerto Rico.

FRONTERA FIL MMAK ERS SH OWC ASE PRESENTED BY

The San Diego Latino Film Festival is committed to celebrating the amazing and impressive features created by filmmakers living in the San Diego / Tijuana region. This year, these films highlight important issues affecting the populations of both regions, take us on a rip-roaring road trip from San Diego to Baja California, and highlight the lengths a taxi driver will go to in order to secure a batch of tamales. Join us as we honor these creative locals making a difference in the region’s art scene.

BEYOND THE CROSSFIRE Dir. Sabrina Cremascoli, Ciera Ybarra, Gabe Garcia, Karen Villalbazo, Eduardo Bimbela, Joanne Collazo, Shayne Cole, Michael Berry (USA, 60 min., 2016, English, Documentary) 3/18 / 5:10 / S1 • 3/26 / 11:30AM / S9

A group of 45 students from High Tech High Chula Vista set out to make a documentary about the effects of gun violence in America. They traveled across the country to capture the stories of leaders in brain health, youth mentor programs, peer-to-peer counseling, and juvenile justice reform. The student filmmakers discovered how these leader's efforts helped reduce violence in their communities. FRONTERA FILMMAKERS SHORT FILMS Frontera Filmmakers (115 min.) 3/20 / 6:25 / S9 • 3/25 / 1:00 / DGC

Destitution, life-changing events, and the Latino identity in the U.S. are explored in this compilation of expertly crafted short films from the San Diego-Tijuana region.

GHOST MAGNET ROACH MOTEL Dir. Shinpei Takeda (USA / Mexico / Austria, 70 min. 2016, English, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Documentary) 3/18 / 3:55 / S3 • 3/20 / 9:30 / S1

Ghost Magnet Roach Motel is a Punk Musical documentary by the artist and director Shinpei Takeda. The intimate portrait of two American musicians, two Mexican visual artists, and the Japanese filmmaker draws on a bluntly existential confrontation of their individual struggles between addiction and expression, just like the border overlooking Tijuana and San Diego.

RUTA MADRE Dir. Agustin Castaneda (Mexico / USA, 97 min., 2016, English, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama / Comedy) 3/16 / 7:30 / S1 • 3/18 / 6:00 / S3 • 3/20 / 6:45 / S1

After his first love breaks his heart, a young American singer reluctantly leaves his home in San Diego, California and embarks on an epic road trip through Baja with his uncle in order to reconnect with his Mexican roots and find himself. Featuring performances from Carmen Salinas, Paul Rodriguez, Paulina Gaitan, and Angélica María. SLAP WORTHY Dir. Luis Martinez (USA, 57 min., 2016, English, Comedy) 3/21 / 6:30 / S9 • 3/25 / 11:00AM / DGC

Local filmmaker Luis Martinez’s latest project is a hilarious comedy about a man who enlists the help of his friend to win over the girl of his dreams. Things get complicated when he realizes getting what he wants is much more difficult than he could have ever anticipated. ¿Y LOS TAMALES? Dir. Tomas Chi (Honduras, 70 min., 2016, English w/ Spanish subtitles, Comedy) 3/20 / 7:00 / S2 • 3/26 / 11:00AM / DGC

In this hilarious Honduran comedy produced by local producer Monika Tuncbilek, a cab driver is tasked by his wife with picking up tamales for Christmas Eve. En route, he picks up a diverse array of characters, including a “Bad Santa” and a thief, resulting in an evening unlike any other.

COUNT RY OF FO CUS BRA ZI L CO-PRESENTED BY

CALIFÓRNIA Dir. Marina Person (Brazil, 85 min., 2016, Portuguese w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/17 / 6:00 / DGC • 3/19 / 7:45 / S9

Estela, a young girl living in Brazil during the mid-80’s, is struggling with adolescence and trying to understand sex, love, and friendships. Her only dream is to travel to California to visit her uncle Carlos, but when Carlos returns to Brazil, weak and ill, Estela must face a new reality that will forever change how she sees the world. CINEMA NOVO Dir. Eryk Rocha (Brazil, 90 min., 2016, Portuguese w/ English subtitles, Documentary) 3/16 / 9:00 / S10 • 3/20 / 9:20 / S9 • 3/23 / 4:00 / DGC • 3/26 / 1:15 / DGC

Brazilian cinema is vibrant, heart-felt, and brimming with the exuberance of life. It’s also exceedingly intellectual, oftentimes conveying sharp critiques of social inequality, structures of powers, and the living conditions of its population. By striking a perfect balance that appeals to both the heart and the mind, Brazilian cinema has diversified significantly in the last years to provide fantastic films. This showcase is diverse in its representation of Brazilian cinema -from a visual essay of one of film history’s most influential periods, Cinema Novo, to the zany and infectious comedy Jules and Dolores-- and guaranteed to make you a lifetime devotee to this country’s cinema.

Cinema Novo combines film clips with interviews and behind-the-scenes footage to capture the revolutionary spirit of the 1960’s film movement that changed Brazilian filmmaking forever.

ELIS Dir. Hugo Prata (Brazil, 110 min., 2016, Portuguese w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/18 / 8:45 / S2 • 3/25 / 5:00 / S1

The life of the Brazilian singer Elis Regina, who battled her country’s dictatorship and her own personal demons to become the greatest singer in the history of Brazil. In Competition. JULES AND DOLORES Dir. Caito Ortiz (Brazil, 91 min., 2016, Portuguese w/ English subtitles, Comedy) 3/21 / 7:05 / S1 • 3/26 / 4:55 / S1

In an attempt to pay off his gambling debt and pacify his flamboyant girlfriend, Dolores, fun-loving Peralta and his happy-go-lucky buddy, Borracha, decide to steal a golden replica of the legendary Jules Rimet soccer World Cup trophy. However, they end up stealing the original trophy, putting the entire country on high alert and on their tail.

WHERE I GROW OLD Dir. Marilia Rocha (Brazil / Portugal, 100 min., 2016, Portuguese w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/17 / 5:15 / S1 • 3/24 / 5:45 / DGC • 3/26 / 7:30 / S9

Francisca is a young Portuguese woman who’s been living in Belo Horizonte, Brazil for a year. She welcomes Teresa, an old friend from Portugal, into her home. The film follows each woman’s adventures in the city and the deep friendship that grows between them, forcing them to deal with conflicting desires: Francisca’s longing for her former life in Portugal and Teresa’s commitment to making Belo Horizonte home.

S ONID O & ART E L AT IN O

Arte Latino

The San Diego Latino Film Festival is once again proud to partner with La Onda Arte Latino to bring you the best in Local and International Latino Artists. We will have art on display and for sale throughout the Festival at our Festival VIP lounge areas, at our Sabor Latino event and at the Digital Gym in North Park. We will also have artists creating LIVE art and Meet the Artist events at various times during the Festival.

Sonido Latino

Meet the Artist: We are proud and excited to have internationally famous, local artist, muralist and illustrator Rafael Lopez, Rafael created our 2008 Festival Poster, Over 6 U.S. Postage stamps, an award winning Obama poster for the 2012 elections, Illustrated numerous children's books and created community murals all over the country and Mexico and for these he has won many prestigious awards. Rafael will be signing posters at our meet and greet. For more information see our website and find us on Facebook.

PRESENTED BY

March 16 - 26, 2017

Enjoy daily performances by the best local and international artists and bands! Fashion Valley Mall, River Plaza

This years 2017 San Diego Latino Film Festival is being presented by Fashion Valley, A SIMON Mall. It promises to be the biggest and best ever showcasing films from all over the Latin speaking world. Sonido Latino 2017 Daily Concerts brings you the best local and international bands and artists showcasing an array of amazing and diverse talent. Sonido Latino is the musical portion of the San Diego Latino Film Festival that explores the musical landscape of latino talent and culture. During this 11 day festival, we will celebrate latino music with free daily concerts where we showcase everything from Flamenco to Aztec Dancing! Concerts start March 16th and continue through March 26th. This years Sonido Latino includes appearances by: ANDY VARGAS AND SOULEROS CUMBIA MACHIN LA BEAT CANTINA DAVID MALDONADO MONETTE MARINO HECTOR QUINTANA (MANĂ )

FREE!! CHARLIE CHAVEZ YAMEL ANAID CHRISTOPHER VEGA ISABEL INZUNZA JESSICA LISETTE FLAMENCO WITH ROOTS LOS CALI LINDA OWLEN SONORO2 MANTIS BEVERLY BLVD (SCHOOL OF ROCK) THE ROAR GIOVANA ILZA ROSARIO REEGEEO JOEY MOLINA DANZA AZTECA SANTIAGO OROZCO GIOVANI DAVID DE ALVA MARIO MARAUAK POSSE CAFE And many more to be announced!!!

Daily concerts and performances are totally FREE for anyone, including film festival patrons and Fashion Valley mall shoppers! All ages and free unless otherwise specified. ***** Please like and follow our Facebook and Instagram for daily updates and exclusive behind the scenes content. Sonido Latino is brought to you by the Media Arts Center San Diego, Saul Silva Musik Project and Aca Productions. For more information, please contact: saul@mediaartscenter.org | 619-230-1938 sdlatinofilmfestival.com/sonido-latino-daily-concerts

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U S L AT I N O FI LM S SHOWCA SE DOLORES

PRESENTED BY

Dir. Peter Bratt (USA, 95 min., 2017, English, Documentary) 3/23 / 7:30 / S1 • 3/26 / 12:15 / S1

In the latter half of the 20th century, Dolores Huerta, an influential labor organizer, fought alongside Cesar Chavez for the rights of field laborers in America while refusing to conform to the expectations of her gender. Dolores depicts how Huerta overcame racism, sexism, poverty, inequality and violence, endured two divorces, raised 11 children, and became one of the most important social justice leaders in American history. GENERATION WOLF Dir. Christian de la Cortina (USA / Canada, 94 min., 2016, English; Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/25 / 8:45 / S9

Vincent del Toro’s car refurbishing business is in jeopardy after the licensing bureau threatens to place sanctions against it. Determined to avoid bankruptcy, Vincent returns home to Michigan to find a solution. He becomes involved with a local drug operation in an attempt to raise the funds necessary to save his business. Ultimately, Vincent realizes that his involvement is becoming more dangerous than he could have ever imagined. H.O.M.E. Dir. Daniel Maldonado (USA, 73 min., 2016, English; Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/23 / 10:00 / S1 • 3/24 / 6:40 / S3 • 3/26 / 1:30 / S10

Jesús Ochoa stars in H.O.M.E., a "love letter" to New York City composed of two stories. One tells of a missing young man with Asperger syndrome who seeks refuge in the city’s underground labyrinth. The other follows an Ecuadorian driver with a gambling problem, and a Chinese woman desperate to get home to her sick child. As the two journey through the urban landscape, they discover a deeper understanding of the importance of being able to connect with other people, despite physical and emotional barriers.

Exciting, dynamic, and overwhelmingly personal, these films produced in the US convey the importance of Latino-American perspectives in the modern cinematic landscape. This collection of films highlights the importance of chasing your dreams, whatever the cost, and the value of being able to forge long-lasting connections within our community. LUPE BAJO EL SOL Dir. Rodrigo Reyes (Mexico / USA, 78 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/17 / 4:00 / DGC • 3/20 / 5:00 / S1 • 3/25 / 6:30 / S9

Lupe, an aging Mexican migrant, has spent his entire life working in the California fields, separated from his family back home. One morning Lupe, a melancholy alcoholic, realizes that life has passed him by and he has nothing to show for it. Lupe embarks on existential journey, trying to come to terms with his choices and to reconnect with what he left behind. Rodrigo Reyes shoots his first narrative project with neorealist flair, using only non-professional actors.

NETFLIX PRESENTS: ONE DAY AT A TIME Dir. Pamela Fryman, Phill Lewis (USA, 90 min., 2016, English, Comedy)

3/25 / 3:20 / S10 In this modern reimagining of the TV classic, a newly single Latina mother (Justina Machado) raises her teen daughter and tween son with the "help" of her old-school mom (Rita Moreno). The San Diego Latino Film Festival will screen 2 episodes of this heartwarming and critically acclaimed series, one co-written by San Diego native Gloria Calderon Kellett.

VARSITY PUNKS Dir. Anthony Solorzano (USA, 100 min., 2017, English, Comedy)

3/25 / 6:10 / S2 When star quarterback AJ Montoya breaks his hand, his only hope is to team up with his longtime rivals – the cross country team, a group of nerds and misfits, for a shot at for high school glory. Co-starring Napoleon Dynamite’s Efren Ramirez.

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PAR A L A FAM I LI A PRESENTED BY Heed the call for adventure and join us for our Para La Familia Showcase, featuring three exciting, motivational, and unforgettable films that submerge you in cinematic worlds where no dream is too big and no challenge is unsurpassable. Suitable for festival attendees of all ages! MAYBE SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL Prod. Ryan Swenar/ Dreamscape Media (USA, 8 min., 2016, English, Animated)

Will precede the 3/25 / 12:15 / S1 screening of ANIDA Y EL CIRCO FLOTANTE What good can a splash of color do in a community of gray? As Mira and her neighbors discover, more than you might ever imagine! Based on the true story of the Urban Art Trail in San Diego, California, Maybe Something Beautiful reveals how art can inspire transformation—and how even the smallest artists can accomplish something big. Written by F. Isabel Campoy and Theresa Howell, illustrations by Rafael López. ANIDA Y EL CIRCO FLOTANTE Dir. Liliana Esther Romero (Argentina, 75 min., 2016, Spanish, Animation / Adventure) 3/19 / 12:15/ S1 • 3/25 / 12:15 / S1

Anida lives with a floating traveling circus and possesses a magnificent power: she can peer into an individual's future by reading their palm. However, Anida also suffers a great curse: she cannot remember her past. Even though Madame Justine, the domineering circus manager, does not allow anyone to venture beyond the perimeter of the circus grounds, Anida’s desire for freedom encourages her to forge her own path in life and discover a secret that will change everything. DRUM DREAM GIRL Prod. Ryan Swenar/ Dreamscape Media (USA, 6 min., 2016, English, Animated) Will precede the 3/18 / 12:15 / S1 screening of TESOROS

PASOS DE HEROE Dir.Henry Rincon (Colombia, 92 min, Spanish w/ English Subtitles, Drama) 3/17 / 7:15 / S3 • 3/26 / 11:45AM / S3

Eduardo, a 10-year old amputee from Colombia, must overcome several challenges-- including his physical impairment and the oppressive patriarch he lives with-- in order to achieve his dream of playing in a soccer championship.

Rafael López brings Margarita Engle’s inspirational book DRUM DREAM GIRL to life in this moving animated short about a young girl following her dreams to become a drummer.

JUEGO DE HÉROES Dirs. Camilo Abadía, Pedro Álvarez Tostado (Mexico, 81 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Sports)

3/24 / 6:05 / S10 In this inspirational film starring Sebastián Zurita, a soccer star is reunited with his childhood friend after suffering an injury. The two begin a special journey toward recovery bound by their love of soccer.

TESOROS Dir. María Novaro (Mexico, 95 min., Spanish w/ English subtitles, Adventure / Family) 3/18 / 12:15 / S1 • 3/22 / 7:00 / S9 • 3/25 / 11:15AM / S10

María Novaro, one of Mexico’s most accomplished directors, directs this enchanting adventure film about a group of friends who embark on a treasure hunt and in the process experience the adventure of a lifetime.

¡ D O C UM A N I A ! SHOWCA SE The documentary tradition is an art form that has never been as essential as it is today, particularly when it comes to defining Latino identity. As people in power and the mainstream media continue to misconstrue and misunderstand what it means to be Latino, it falls on artists, in this case filmmakers, to capture and then disseminate the non-fiction experiences of Latinos. In doing so, the definition of what it means to be Latino becomes broader but at the same time, more accurate, leaving less room for false conjectures about what it means to be Latino. ARREO Dir. Tato Moreno (Argentina, 93 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Documentary) 3/18 / 4:20 / S2 • 3/21 / 4:00 / DGC

Arreo follows a family of passionate Argentine gauchos on an arduous goat herding journey through the High Andes, capturing both their reflections on the threat “progress” poses to their livelihood, and the essence and beauty of upland rural life.

DÍA DE VISITA Dir. Nicole Opper (Mexico / USA, 75 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Documentary) 3/21 / 6:15 / S10 • 3/24 / 4:00 / DGC

Sixteen year old Juan Carlos ran away from an abusive home and lived on the streets of Mexico City for years before finding his way to IPODERAC, a unique group home and social enterprise located in Puebla. The documentary follows Juan Carlos through the most transformative year of his life as he finds the strength to return to Mexico City to overcome his sense of abandonment and forgive his father for the past. ES HORA DE ENAMORARSE, UNA HISTORIA ENTRE BAMBALINAS Dir. Guido Bilbao (Panama, 70 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Documentary) 3/19 / 4:00 / S3 • 3/24 / 4:45 / S3 • 3/26 / 3:05 / DGC

A group of young actors with Down syndrome begin rehearsal for one of Panama’s most popular plays, “La Cucarachita Mandinga.” Despite the difficulty, the actors rise to the challenge and work diligently, memorizing their lines and learning their choreography. In the process of preparing for the play, they embark on the greatest adventures of their lives, proving to themselves and their community they can achieve anything they set their minds to. HIJA DE LA LAGUNA Dir. Ernesto Cabellos Damián (Peru, 87 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Documentary) 3/16 / 4:30 / S9 • 3/19 / 12:00 / S2 • 3/26 / 4:45 / DGC

At the height of the Peruvian gold rush, an Andean woman, able to communicate with water spirits, uses her powers to prevent a mining corporation from destroying the lake she considers to be her mother.

EL CHARRO DE TOLUQUILLA Dir. José Villalobos (Mexico, 90 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Documentary) 3/19 / 8:00 / S3 • 3/21 / 4:15 / S10

A spirited, HIV positive mariachi singer seeks fame and recognition while dealing with the responsibilities that come with fatherhood. In Competition.

EL HOMBRE QUE VIO DEMASIADO Dir. Trisha Ziff (Mexico, 88 min., 2015, English; Spanish w/ English subtitles, Documentary) 3/18 / 11:00AM / DGC • 3/19 / 5:50 / S3 3/25 / 4:00 / S9

Enrique Metinides is a photographer whose images have captured the aftermath of some of Mexico’s most devastating accidents. Through Metinides’s candid photos and the work of the contemporary tabloid photographers, Mexico City becomes a narrative of crime scenes and accidents while confronting us with our own fascination with death, morbidity, and rubbernecking. In Competition. J! BEYOND FLAMENCO DEATH BY A THOUSAND CUTS Dir. Jake Kheel | Juan Mejia Botero (Dominican Republic /Haiti /USA, 73 min., 2016, Spanish, Creole w/ English subtitles, Documentary) 3/23 / 4:30 / S9 • 3/25 / 11:30AM / S9

On the Haitian-Dominican border, the brutal murder of a park ranger sparks a journey into the illegal charcoal trade, mass deforestation, and violent conflict.

Dir. Carlos Saura (Spain, 90 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Dance Documentary) 3/18 / 11:45AM / S3 • 3/25 / 8:15 / S10

Carlos Saura allows us to experience the joy and strength of the dance and music of “la Jota.” Like “Flamenco,” “Tango,” or “Fados, ”“Jota” has evolved from a millennium-old traditional music and dance to new artistic dimensions. With his own personal style, Saura continues to distill the magic and explore the boundaries of art in its purest state.

¡ DO C UM ANI A! SHOWCASE LOS JINETES DEL TIEMPO

SWIM TEAM

Dir. José Ramón Pedroza (Mexico, 100 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Documentary) 3/18 / 6:30 / S10 • 3/19 / 2:15 / S1 • 3/26 / 11:15AM / S10

Dir. Lara Stolman (USA, 101 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Documentary) 3/19 / 11:00AM / DGC • 3/22 / 4:45 / S2

On December 6th, 1914, revolutionaries Emiliano Zapata and Pancho Villa took control of Mexico City. Over a century later, a group of rural actors, reliving that glory, make their way through Mexican towns to the capital city. Along the way, members of the troupe find themselves confronting the past—as well as the present- laying out parallels that force us to wonder just what has changed in a hundred years’ time.

What would you do if your community gave up on your child? In New Jersey, the parents of one autistic boy take matters into their own hands, forming a competitive swim team by recruiting multiethnic autistic teens and training them with high expectations and zero pity. As the boys vie for state and national championships, what happens alters the course of their lives.

MI SANGRE ENARBOLADA Dir. Guido Bilbao (Mexico, 61 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Documentary) 3/19 / 3:50 / S2 • 3/21 / 10:00 / S2

There are some promises that are impossible to keep. Director Luis Palomino Benítez’s uncle, José, made such a promise as a child in 1963 to his young sister Ana Luisa, to whom he swore a special kind of devotion, declaring, "The day that you die, I'm going to die with you.” There are always bonds like this between siblings, born of a mysterious connection that require investigation. In Competition. RODAR CONTRA TODO Dir. Marianela Vega (Peru, 74 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Documentary) 3/18 / 3:35 / DGC • 3/23 / 7:45 / S2 • 3/24 / 4:30 / S9

Rodar contra todo tells the story of the first wheelchair rugby team in Peru, a group of men and women from different cultural and socio-economic backgrounds who came together in December 2012 to play a sport that was new and unfamiliar to them. The film follows them for two years, showing their work as a team, the excitement of their first international tournaments, and their goals, dreams and motivations that guide their daily struggle both on the court and in their personal lives.

TAYOS Dir. Miguel Garzon (Ecuador, 87 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Documentary) 3/19 / 11:30AM / S9 • 3/21 / 9:00 / S1 • 3/24 / 5:00 / S2

The story of how Tayos Cave in the Amazon rainforest gained worldwide renown and why, decades later, it continues to inspire passion, conflict, and interest. A group of geologists and others penetrate Tayos’ massive underworld to shed light on the cave’s legends, including the alleged existence of the remains of an extinguished civilization.

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Hollywood’s only studio producing and distributing films specifically targeted to Latino audiences continues its rise after a string of hits, including No Manches Frida starring Omar Chaparro and Martha Higareda, Un Padre No Tan Padre, and the romantic comedy, Everyone Loves Somebody starring Karla Souza. The films featured in this showcase, which were produced in partnership with Mexico’s Videocine, are crowd-pleasing examples of the power of Mexican cinema.

QUE PENA TU VIDA Dir. Luis Eduardo Reyes (Mexico, 97 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Romantic Comedy) 3/18 / 7:20 / DGC • 3/23 / 6:15 / S9 • 3/24 / 9:45 / S2 • 3/26 / 8:55 / S3

Aislinn Derbez, Ilse Salas and José María de Tavira star in this hilarious comedy about a heartbroken man who makes a series of bad decisions as he tries to win back the love of his life. In the process, he places himself in increasingly off-kilter situations that ultimately allow him to examine his self-worth.

TREINTONA SOLTERA Y FANTASTICA Dir. Chava Cartas (Mexico, 98 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Comedy) 3/20 / 8:15 / S10 • 3/22 / 5:40 / DGC • 3/25 / 7:00 / S3 • 3/26 / 9:20 / S1

Inés Duarte (Bárbara Mori), a writer in her mid-thirties, decides to use a series of challenges to embark on a journey of self discovery. Along the way, she discovers it’s better to fulfill her own expectations than those of everyone else.

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24th Annual San Diego Latino Film Festival

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C I NE G AY S H OWCASE This year’s selection of films featured in our annual Cine Gay Showcase are thought-provoking, incisive, and unflinching in their portrayal of the modern day LGBTQ experience. The documentaries highlight the struggles individuals face when they strike against systems of oppression, while the narrative features provide examinations of the complex nature between sexuality and gender, reality and fantasy, and actions and their consequences. DON’T CALL ME SON Dir. Anna Muylaert (Brazil, 82 min., 2016, Portuguese w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/24 / 8:40 / S3 • 3/25 / 8:05 / DGC

Tall, dark, androgynously handsome, Pierre wears eyeliner and a black lace g-string, and has sex with both boys and girls. Things get only more complicated when the teenager’s single, working-class mom is arrested for having stolen him at birth. Pierre is returned to his biological parents: bourgeois, straight-laced, and thrilled to have him back- until he shows up in a zebra-print mini dress. The turmoil of adolescence is plumbed with wit and compassion by writer/director Anna Muylaert.

ETIQUETA NO RIGUROSA Dir. Cristina Herrera Bórquez (Mexico, 92 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Documentary) 3/18 / 5:15 / DGC • 3/26 / 5:50 / S10

Victor and Fernando run a beauty salon in Baja California. For many of their customers, they were a lovely couple, until they decided to marry. They become the first ones in their state to fight for their rights in a place filled with homophobia and inequality. Through their struggle, they manage to open the eyes of Mexican society and affirm a love that fills every frame of this moving and eye opening new film. FORBIDDEN: UNDOCUMENTED AND QUEER IN RURAL AMERICA Dir. Tiffany Rhynard (USA, 90 min., 2016, English, Spanish w/ subtitles, Documentary) 3/17 / 8:00 / DGC • 3/22 / 9:15 / S9

When Moises Serrano was just a baby, his parents risked everything to flee Mexico and make the perilous journey across the desert in search of the American dream. After 23 years growing up in the rural south as an undocumented gay man, Serrano is forbidden to live and love in the country he calls home. He sees only one option: to fight for justice and demand equality. JESÚS Dir. Fernando Guzzoni (Chile, 83 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/19 / 8:15 / S2 • 3/21 / 8:30 / S9

Jesús, 18, lives alone with his father, Hector, with whom he has a detached relationship. Jesús dances in a K-pop band, hangs out with friends, does drugs, watches trashy movies, and has sex in public places. One night, he and his friends cause a tragedy. This event will brings Jesús and Héctor closer than before, but also threatens to tear them apart forever.

THE ORNITHOLOGIST Dir. João Pedro Rodrigues (Portugal / France / Brazil, 117 min., 2016, Portuguese, Mandarin, and Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/19 / 9:45 / S9 • 3/23 / 8:00 / S10

A handsome ornithologist experiences a series of surreal adventures during a bird surveying trip in this experimental interpretation of the life of St. Anthony of Padua. In Competition.

SOUTHWEST OF SALEM: THE STORY OF THE SAN ANTONIO FOUR Dir. Deborah S. Esquenazi (USA, 91 min., 2016, English, Documentary) 3/18 / 2:15 / S2 • 3/19 / 3:30 / S9 • 3/25 / 1:20 / S10

The story of four Latina lesbians who, in 1994, were wrongfully convicted of raping two young girls. Southwest of Salem documents the bizarre allegations made against the women during a period of rampant homophobia and hysteria, the faulty forensic science used to convict them, and the failure of the justice system to exonerate them long after the charges were shown to be false.

UN M UND O EX T RA ÑO SHOWCASE PRESENTED BY 1974 Dir. Victor Dryere (Mexico, 82 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Horror)

3/17 / 9:45 / S1 • 3/19 / 1:55 / S3 • 3/24 / 10:00 / S1 A newlywed couple, Altair and Manuel, disappeared in 1974. Their 8mm tapes reveal the horrifying events the couple endured after Altair claims to have found a way of communicating with God by building a black brick door in their bedroom.

Travel with us to dimensions that exist beyond the confines of our reality. Behold the dark fantasies that only fierce imaginations can create! Mysteries of missing persons, unusual colonies, crumbling civilizations, the limits of human endurance--this is a strange world, my friends! Don’t come alone! LAS TINIEBLAS Dir. Daniel Castro Zimbrón (Mexico, 94 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Thriller) 3/23 / 9:45 / S2 • 3/26 / 7 :55 / S2

LOS DECENTES Dir. Lukas Valenta Rinner (Argentina / South Korea / Austria, 100 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Dark Comedy) 3/16 / 9:40 / S3 • 3/18 / 10:20 / S9 • 3/19 / 5:10 / DGC

In this biting dark comedy, a cleaning woman discovers a nudist colony just beyond the hedges of the upscale gated community where she works. As she dives deeper into the world of nudism, a long simmering feud between the two communities threatens to boil over.

In a post-apocalyptic world, a heavy fog covers most of the earth’s atmosphere. Siblings living in an isolated cabin in the dense woods must venture out into a hostile environment after one of their own goes missing. During their search, they come face to face with the dark secrets the woods--and their father-- have been hiding.

HISTERIA Dir. Carlos Melendez (Mexico, 81 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/16 / 10:00 / S1 • 3/20 / 8:55 / S2 • 3/22 / 9:45 / S1

Federico is a shy, feeble architect working in an increasingly hostile environment. After he becomes involved in a corruption scheme, Federico finds his humanity pushed to the limit, threatening to unleash a rage he did not know he had in him.

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TENEMOS LA CARNE Dir. Emiliano Rocha Minter (Mexico, 79 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Horror) 3/18 / 10:10 / S1 • 3/25 / 10:20 / S1

In this not-for-the-faint-of-heart shocker, a young brother and sister, roaming an apocalyptic city, take refuge in the dilapidated lair of a strange hermit. He puts them to work building a bizarre cavernous structure where he acts out his insane and depraved fantasies. Trapped in this maddening womb-like world under his malign influence, they find themselves sinking into the realms of dark and forbidden behaviour. Mature Audiences Only.

DI G ITAL GY M ON THE BO ULEVA RD

ART U RO R I PSTEI N TRI B UTE

LA CALLE DE LA AMARGURA Dir. Arturo Ripstein (Mexico, 99 min., 2015, Spanish w/English subtitles, Drama / Crime) 3/25 / 1:30 / S9

Mexico’s unparalleled auteur, Arturo Ripstein, returns with his latest masterpiece “ripped from the headlines” about two elderly prostitutes dealing with external and internal crises: Jeza is having a hard time relating to her teenage daughter and coping with her cross-dressing husband; Adela suffers from loneliness. An encounter with twin mini-luchadores results in the two men’s deaths, forcing Jeza and Adela to come up with a solution for their newfound circumstances. Unflinching, darkly humorous, and filmed in beautiful black and white, La calle de la amargura is a cinematic experience unlike any other.

Arturo Ripstein, Mexico’s unparalleled and unmatched auteur, is both an icon and an iconoclast, a universally admired and celebrated artist whose rebellious cinematic style tends to shatter and subvert Mexico’s societal norms. His camera is a heightened magnifying glass one minute, allowing the spectator to witness humanistic behaviors that embolden patriarchy, machismo, and prejudice, and a wrecking ball immediately after-- pummeling through these systems of oppression, in hopes of transcending beyond them. Through the course of his long-lasting career, Ripstein has established himself as a filmmaker possessing astounding power and control over the cinematic medium, a talent that has elevated him to rank among the most respected filmmakers working today. The San Diego Latino Film Festival is honored to screen three of Ripstein’s most memorables films, El castillo de la pureza, Profundo carmesí, and La Calle de la amargura, in a tribute to a one-of-a-kind filmmaker.

EL CASTILLO DE LA PUREZA Dir. Arturo Ripstein (Mexico, 110 min., 1972, Spanish, Drama) 3/22 / 4:30 / S9

Convinced that society’s corrupt nature will cause irreparable damage to his wife and children, a patriarch locks them inside their house for many years. As his children come of age, their isolation begets unexpected behaviors that shatter his illusion of raising them in a purified environment.

PROFUNDO CARMESÍ Dir. Arturo Ripstein

IN PERSON

(Mexico, 114 min., 1996, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Crime) 3/24 / 7:00 / S2

In this alternately macabre and mirthful thriller, based on a true-crime story, renowned Mexican director Arturo Ripstein brings a stylish audacity to the tale of the “Lonely Hearts Killers,” a couple who, in the 1940s, posed as brother and sister to lure and murder unsuspecting widows. Starring Daniel Giménez Cacho and Regina Orozco.

Latino Film Festival This event is sponsored by the Port of San Diego. We support a vibrant and active waterfront with events that engage the community and inspire visitors to enjoy San Diego Bay.

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M A N O L O CARO TRI BUTE AMOR DE MIS AMORES Dir. Manolo Caro (Mexico, 95 min., 2014, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Comedy) 3/17 / 4:45 / S3

Sandra Echeverría, Sebastián Zurita, and Marimar Vega star in this comedy that proves love is just one chance encounter away. While Carlos travels to Spain to convince his friend to attend his wedding, his fiancé, Lucía (Echeverría), accidentally runs over a cyclist named León (Zurita). Sparks fly between the two, a classic case of love at first sight. However, Lucía is unaware that León is engaged to Ana, resulting in unexpected romantic hijinks. ELVIRA, TE DARÍA MI VIDA PERO LA ESTOY USANDO Dir. Manolo Caro (Mexico, 108 min., 2014, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Dramedy) 3/26 / 1:45 / S3

Manolo Caro’s (Amor de mis amores) unforgettable film follows Elvira (Cecilia Suarez) as she begins investigating her husband’s whereabouts after he goes out for cigarettes and never comes back. The amateur sleuth finds herself in the middle of a mystery with unpredictable twists in her attempt to find the love of her life before she suffers a breakdown. Co-starring Luis Gerardo Mendez (Nosotros los Nobles, Club de cuervos) and Carlos Bardem. NO SÉ SI CORTARME LAS VENAS O DEJÁRMELAS LARGAS Dir. Manolo Caro (Mexico, 98 min., 2013, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Dramedy) 3/25 / 4:30 / S3

IN PERSON

How well do we really know our neighbors? Two very different couples living in the same apartment building find out just how little. A handsome, athletic new renter moves onto their floor, and suddenly two gunshots ring out. With a great cast that includes Luis Gerardo Méndez, Ludwika Paleta, and Raúl Méndez, this crazy dramedy plays with our expectations while negotiating the treacherous territory of an urban living space overrun with manic characters.

MA R Í A ROJO TRIBUTE DANZÓN

IN PERSON

Dir. María Novaro (Mexico, 120 min., 1991, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Romance) 3/21 / 7:15 / S2

Julia (María Rojo) escapes the weariness of her daytime job as a telephone operator by dancing the night away at a local nightclub. When her long-time partner goes missing, Julia embarks on a whimsical odyssey to find him-- and along the way learns a few unexpected things about herself. María Novaro’s landmark film features an unforgettably luminous performance from Rojo that cemented her as one of Mexico’s most talented actresses. DE NOCHE VIENES, ESMERALDA Dir. Jaime Humberto Hermosillo (Mexico, 103 min., 1997, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Romantic Comedy) 3/23 / 5:00 / S1

Esmeralda (María Rojo), an enchanting and free spirited young woman, has five husbands. Before she can marry her sixth, Esmeralda finds herself in trouble with a local judge when one of her spouses accuses her of polyandry Although taciturn and unsympathetic at first, the judge soon finds himself falling under Esmeralda’s spell.

Manolo Caro, Mexico’s multi-talented powerhouse director, is uniquely gifted in his ability to infuse his feature films with both whimsy and heart. His cinema is full of irreverence yet brimming with intellectual savvy that speaks honestly about the complex nature of modern relationships. Through his last four films, Manolo has redefined how we come to understand romance-themed movies. With an eye for immaculate aesthetic detail, Caro’s films are beautiful to behold and enriching in their sumptuous presentation-- he is above all a visual storyteller, letting his shots unfold one after another, like stunning paintings in a flip book. With a soon-to-be released Netflix project on deck, Caro will be a filmmaker we will be talking about for years to come. We are thrilled to screen his newest film, La Vida Inmoral de la Pareja Ideal, along with the other features from his filmography for this tribute to Mexico’s most exciting filmmaker. LA VIDA INMORAL DE LA PAREJA IDEAL Dir. Manolo Caro (Mexico, 91 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Drama) 3/17 / 7:30 / S1 • 3/19 / 6:35 / S10 • 3/24 / 7:55 / DGC

In director Manolo Caro’s latest, two high school sweethearts find each other 25 years after their passionate high school romance. The two of them find themselves yearning for one another, threatening the stability of the lives they’ve built for themselves. Starring Cecilia Suárez, Manuel García-Rulfo, Andrés Almeida, and Sebastián Aguirre. Over the course of her decades-spanning career, María Rojo has established herself as Mexico’s premier leading actress through her stellar and astounding work in film, television, and theater. Rojo has collaborated with Mexico’s most prestigious directors, delivering unforgettable, scorching, and radiant performances in films such as Las Poquianchis, Rojo Amanecer, and La Tarea. Her ability to embody a diverse array of characters with dignity, strength, and grace is truly singular, and her chameleonlike ability to adapt to a multitude of genres is a testament to her awe-inspiring talent. We have selected three films from Rojo’s filmography to share with you in order to properly pay tribute to one of the greatest actresses of our generation. ROJO AMANECER Dir. Jorge Fons (Mexico, 99 min., 1989, Spanish, Drama) 3/26 / 3:30 / S2

María Rojo and Héctor Bonilla star in this relentlessly claustrophobic drama about a middle class family that witnesses the Tlatelolco Massacre from their apartment building on the evening of October 2, 1968.

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L ATINO P U B L I C B ROAD CA STI NG FAREWELL FERRIS WHEEL Dir. Miguel Martinez, Jamie Sisley (USA, 70 min., 2016, English; Spanish w/ English subtitles, Documentary) 3/18 / 11:30AM / S9 • 3/22 / 4:00 / DGC • 3/25 / 2:15 / S2

Farewell Ferris Wheel spends six years exploring how the U.S. Carnival industry fights to keep itself alive by legally employing Mexican migrant workers using the controversial H-2B guestworker visa. LATINO PUBLIC BROADCASTING SHORTS: BEYOND LA BAMBA Dir. Marco Villalobos (Mexico / USA, 27 min., 2016, Spanish w/ English subtitles, Documentary) 3/26 / 1:40 / S2

Through the compelling story of a young musician who leaves home to follow his dreams, Mexico’s 300-year-old son jarocho tradition comes vividly to life in Beyond La Bamba. From the rural roots of Veracruz to the urban rhythms of the Midwest, a family of iconic musicians forges a new life while remaining true to their music. LATINO PUBLIC BROADCASTING SHORTS: THE HEAD OF JOAQUÍN MURRIETA Dir. John J. Valadez (Mexico / USA, 29 min., 2016, English, Documentary) 3/26 / 1:40 / S2

For over a decade, filmmaker John J. Valadez searched for the remains of Joaquin Murrieta, a legendary Mexican outlaw who blazed a trail of revenge across California until he was caught and decapitated in the summer of 1853. A hundred and sixty-two years later, Valadez believes he has found Murietta’s head. Valadez embarks on a quixotic, cross-country road trip through history, myth, and memory to bury the fabled head of Joaquin Murrieta.

PR ES EN T S PRESENTED BY

The San Diego Latino Film Festival’s ongoing partnership with Latino Public Broadcasting continues this year with a showcase of 4-new documentaries (including the introduction of a short film double feature). Join us as we celebrate emerging voices in documentary cinema! MEMORIES OF A PENITENT HEART Dir. Cecilia Aldarondo (Puerto Rico / USA, 77 min., 2016, English; Spanish w/ English subtitles, Documentary) 3/16 / 4:00 / DGC • 3/25/ 11:45AM / S3

Combining recently discovered home movies, video, and written documents, Memories of a Penitent Heart cracks open a Pandora’s box of unresolved family drama. Originating in Cecilia Aldarondo’s suspicion that there was something awry in her family’s past, the film charts her excavation of the buried conflict surrounding her uncle Miguel’s death. This cautionary tale about the unresolved conflicts wrought by AIDS is a nuanced exploration of how faith is used and abused in times of crisis. In Competition.

MARCH 16 - 26, 2017 SCREEN #1 - (AMC) SPONSOR: SUNROAD AUTO

SCREEN #2 - (AMC)

5:15

Entonces nosotros (Costa Rica, 97 min.)

5:00 Alba (Ecuador / Mexico / Greece, 98 min.)

4:45

7:30

Ruta madre (Mexico / USA, 97 min.)

7:15 Pariente (Colombia, 115 min.)

7:00

Un cuento de circo and A Love Song (Mexico, 114 min.)

10:00 Histeria (Mexico, 81 min.)

9:50 El primero de la familia (Chile, 80 min.)