2010 San Diego Latino Film Festival Catalogue

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WELCOME

BIENVENIDOS Yes! It’s that time of year again; time for the 17th Annual San Diego Latino Film Festival; a perfect opportunity to reconnect and enjoy one another and the best in local, national and international Latino Cinema. Through challenging times we continue to feel an energy that reveals the spirit of lasting relationships and support for one another. It’s a connection we all witnessed when camera lens focused on suffering neighbors in Haiti; and as our eyes met theirs, we responded in solidarity. SDLFF 2010 honors the power of human resilience; and celebrates a vigor awesomely portrayed in this year’s 185 films, art, music and workshops. In fact, this year’s Cine Mujer – a celebration of the multiple talents of gifted female filmmakers – is being sponsored by the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences. We’re excited to introduce audiences to many first-time feature film directors this year in Opera Prima. Plus, enjoy our festival logo and poster, the result of a first-ever poster competition prompting much creativity and suspense when the final selection was made. This annual festival is part of the non-profit organization, Media Arts Center San Diego, Changing Lives through Film and helps to fulfill an essential need for underserved communities to learn technology skills, media literacy, and explore opportunities to hear new voices and preserve culture through communitybased storytelling. MACSD accomplishes these goals year-round with a growing roster of programs and services that include: Teen Producers Project; Digital Story Stations now in 30 public libraries across the state; DIY New Media Studio, supported by

the James Irvine Foundation; Video Production Services; the People’s Post (citizen journalism) funded by the Knight Foundation; Frontera Filmmakers and Cinema en tu idioma. Unique to the San Diego Latino Film Festival is the fact that after expenses, all proceeds support youth media education programs. We’re extremely grateful for sponsors and funders, both new and returning, who sustain and make the festival possible. It’s very rewarding to witness an outpouring of partner and member contributors like you, who enable MACSD’s education programming initiatives and services to grow. I am deeply grateful for the dedicated efforts of volunteers, Board members, and MACSD staff that pull this event off each year! We are very glad that you’ve come to the festival, and are joining some 20,000 locals, visitors and guests. Marvel and be entertained by the bold and sensitive diversity of over 185 (more films than ever!) feature documentaries and narratives, animation, shorts, and experimentals in Comedy, Cine Gay, Un Mundo Extraño, Venezuelan Cinema and Para la Familia Showcases. I look forward to seeing you during these eleven-days of SDLFF 2010 - films, parties, guests, music, art “y mucho más” Thank you, Ethan van Thillo Executive Director / Founder

TABLE OF CONTENTS

From the Director

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Arte Latino & Cine’mation

31

Festival Staff & Acknowledgments

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Premio Corazón Awards

33

Sponsors

5

Cine Gay & El Mundo Extraño

35

Community Partners

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Latinos on TV: Mujeres Asesinas

39

Corporate Spotlights

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Cine Mujer Celebration!

41

Festival Schedule

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Tribute - Benjamin Bratt

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Tribute - Gloria Calzada

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Youth Visions

49

Guest Director: Leon Ichaso

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Tu Cine: Student Outreach Screenings

51

Parties / Sonido Latino

19

Narrative Features

52

Reel Talks

23

Documentary Features

64

Cine Venezolano

27

Short Film Programs

70

Para la Familia

29

STAFF ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Agencia Freak Oscar Alonso Marilyn Armenta Jennifer Arndt Ricardo Astiazaran Amy Beard Joaquin Baldwin Patricia Beckmann Dori Begley Gabriel Blanco Julie Bravo Gabriel Castro Jamie Chavez Patricia Ciccone Jodi Cilley DJ Mambo Renato Dos Anjos Franceska Joao Fariñas Raul Garcia Imagina International Sales Juan Sebastian Gomez Julian Grijalva Debbie Gonzales Miriana Gonzalez Veronica Gonzalez José Inerzia Gunwoo Kim Kimuak Victoria Hamilton Krystal Herring - Makeup Artist Jeannette Ibarra Karen Kirkland Kathryn Larom Judy Leitner Dax London Carmen Lopez Anthony Lucerno Magnolia Pictures

Miguel Arón Martínez Galván Sayuri Miyashima Felipe Molina Txema Muñoz Nickelodeon Writing Fellowship Lillia O’Hara Pedro Ochoa Orquesta Binacional de Mambo Guillermina Ortega Carlos Pelayo Alquimia Peña Gaby Piombo - Makeup Artist House of Puerto Rico Mary Reed Joe Richter Rincon Dance Melissa Romley Rosa Maria Rovira Danné Sadler Leo Sanchez Barbosa San Diego Salsa & Bachata Festival Synthia Villavicencio - Stylist Victoria Saunders Felicia Shaw Jesus Soberanis - Security UltraStar Cinemas Isabel Valdez Kurt van Thillo Marc van Thillo Kris van Thillo Emlyn Thompson Adriana Trujillo Jonathan Villamar TLA Releasing Tom Webber Doeri Welch Greiner Jeffrey Winter Wolfe Releasing Larry Zeiger

Our sincere apologies to anyone who is missing from this extensive list.

Executive Director & Founder Ethan van Thillo

Guest Programmers Gonzalo Lopez Jorge Magaña

Festival Curator Lisa Franek

Graphic Design Christiane Natalie Dury Julia Mitar Franko Rosas Pelayo

Innovations & Programming Officer Patric Stillman Education Coordinator Melissa Johnson Operations Associate Belinda Rojas Program Associates Ryan Kuratomi Sandy Ortiz Maggie Pehanick Sponsor & Community Partner Relations Marielena Castellanos Carmen Melendez Host & Special Events Producer Yolanda S. Walther-Meade

Video Production Albert Lopez Anthony Vargas DIY New Media Studio Morgan Sully Arte Latino Andy Gonzalez Press/ Media Relations America Barcelo José Luis Martínez Settle Carmen Levenson Social Media Marketing Miguel-Angel Soria Souvenir Program Mario Diaz

Maria Elena Delgado Gloria Gonzalez-Chavarria Lizet Benrey

Stephanie Monroe Felipe Molina Russell Redmond

Alberto Lopez John Acosta Jennifer Silva Redmond

Gonzalo Lopez (President) Mark Burgess (Vice President) sandiego.com, Inc. TR Irwin (Treasure) Vice President of Finance Bridgepoint Education

Linda Caballero-Sotelo President and COO Toltec Media Inc. Allen Cazares Kristine Diekman Videographer & Educator Don Dean Performance Solutions Bank of America Vicki Estrada Estrada Land Planning

Special Guest Relations Samya Frances Gabriela MorenoBracamontes Theater Manager Martin Johnson Projectionists Jon Miller Mye Hoang Christopher Paffendorf Staci Gaines Arnold Marqueza Jake Zamzow Sponsorship Coordinator Medicis Communications Development Victoria Saunders Grace van Thillo

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Judy Harper (Secretary) Community Partners

2010 FILM FESTIVAL SELECTION COMMITTEE

Ticketing Helen Guzman

Daniel Cruz Gonzalez Retired City of San Diego Director Alejandro Holcman Vice President Qualcomm Inc. Otto Cocino Compliance Officer MAAC Project Jill Galves Vice President, Sales and Operations FastBlue/ConnectHere Communications Kelly Clark Moncure Educator/ Freelance Photographer

SPONSORS MAJOR SPONSOR

SCREEN SPONSORS

OFFICIAL SPANISH-LANGUAGE TELEVISION SPONSORS

OFFICIAL ENGLISH-LANGUAGE TELEVISION SPONSOR

OFFICIAL SPANISH-LANGUAGE RADIO SPONSORS

SHOWCASE SPONSORS ENTERTAINMENT SUITE SPONSOR

FILM SPONSORS

AWARD SPONSORS

OFFICIAL AIRLINE SPONSOR

SPONSORS GALA SPONSORS

NEWSPAPER SPONSORS

MAJOR FINANCIAL SUPPORT

OFFICIAL HOTEL SPONSOR

Major financial support also provided by: National Endowment for the Arts

CONCERT STAGE SPONSOR

City of San Diego Commission for Arts & Culture County of San Diego

INTERNET SPONSOR

OFFICAL MAGAZINE SPONSOR

OFFICIAL ENGLISH-LANGUAGE RADIO SPONSORS

MOBILE SPONSORS

COMMUNITY PARTNERS Thank you to all of our Community Partners for your continued support!

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ACLU of San Diego & Imperial Counties AFSCME Alma Latina Andre’s Patio A Time to Dance Azraelola Productions Bachatamante Dance Company Babycakes Building Bridges for Pride Campus Community Centers at UCSD Chicano Democratic Association Career College of San Diego Chicano Studies Color me Mine Cross Cultural Center Crystal Pyramid Productions Diversionary Theater Dr. James R McClurg Dr. Vince Marin Film OUT San Diego Francis Parker School Greater S D Business Association House of Argentina House of Colombia House of Cuba House of Mexico House of Panama House of Peru House of Puerto Rico House of Spain Institute of the Americas Kanari La Sonrisa Latina Los Bilingual Writers Lourdes Sanchez MAAC Project MANA Mariachi Continental de San Diego Melero Boutique and Gallery Museum of Photographic Arts Multi Media and Visual Arts School MVAS Nacional Records National Latina Business Women Association-SD National University Academy Patricia Rincon Dance Collective Positive Energy Dance Company Poway Center for the Performing Arts Puerto La Boca Qualcomm Inc. Que Pasa San Diego Reuben H Fleet Science Center Rumbankete SD Asian Film Foundation SD City College World Cultures SD County Library SD International Childrens Festival SD Italian Film Festival SD Jewish Film Festival SD LGBT SDSU So Say We All The Worldview Press Tiger Smalls UCSD Department of Pediatric Trios los Reales Undisputed University of Santa Cruz USPS Winspear Creative Women’s History Museum Zumba Fitness

www.aclu.org www.afscme3299.org www.Almalatinadancecompany.com www.andresrestaurantsandiego.com www.Atimetodance.com www.azraelolaproductions.com www.Bachatamante.com www.babycakessandiego.com www.buildingbridges4pride.com www.ucsd.edu www.chicanodemocrats.com www.careercollegesandiego.com www.sdmesa.edu www.santee.colormemine.com www.sdsu.edu www.newuniquevideos.com www.diversionary.org www.mcclurgmd.com www.Marinaesthetics.com www.filmoutsandiego.com www.francisparker.org www.gsdba.org www.houseofargentina.com www.sdhpr.org/colombia www.cubanosensandiego.com www.houseofmexico.org www.houseofpanama.org www.houseofperu.org www.houseofpuertorico.com www.casadeespanasd.com www.iamericas.org www.myspace.com/kanari www.latinsmile.com www.losbilingualswriters.org www.lourdesvivanco37@yahoo.com www.maacproject.org www.manasd.org www.diloconmariachi.com www.Melerobg.com www.mopa.org www.mvas.edu www.mvashigh.com www.nacionalrecords.com/ www.nlbwa-sd.com www.nu.edu www.rincondance.org www.Positiveenergydance.com www.powayarts.org www.puertolaboca.com www.qualcomm.com www.quepasa.com www.rhfleet.org www.myspace.com/rumbankete1 www.sdaff.org www.sdccd.edu www.sdcl.org www.sdchildrensfilm.org www.sandiegoitalianfilmfestival.com www.lfjcc.org/sdjff www.thecentersd.org www.sdsu.edu www.sosayweallonline.com www.worldviewpress.org www.tigersmalls.com www.ucsd.edu www.droji@yahoo.com www.undisputedusa.com www.ucsc.edu www.usps.gov www.winspearcreative.com www.womensmuseumsd.org www.zumba.com

CORPORATE SPOTLIGHTS Rudolph A. Johnson, III President and CEO Neighborhood House Association For nearly 100 years, the Neighborhood House Association (NHA) has helped thousands of individuals and families in San Diego County improve their quality of life by providing vital social services including employment, healthcare, child, family and senior services. NHA serves the community through a network of 10 programs in more than 100 locations throughout the county.

Kimi Moore-Macias Director of Sales and Marketing Operations The San Diego UnionTribune

The San Diego Union-Tribune, Enlace and SignOn San Diego are proud to be major sponsors of the 17th Anniversary San Diego Latino Film Festival.

Our family of products includes The San Diego Union-Tribune, Enlace, our Spanish-language weekly and SignOn San Diego, San Diego’s new home page. We provide high-quality news and information to the San Diego-Tijuana region and more than 1.3 million San Diegans weekly. As San Diego County’s leading local media company, we are honored to play a supporting role in this year’s SDLFF. Aplaudimos a los organiza-

Robert Moutal General Manager XHAS Telemundo 33 TELEMUNDO 33 San Diego/Tijuana is pleased to be once again one of the Official SpanishLanguage Television Sponsors of the San Diego Latino Film Festival in 2010. We are proud to be associated with an institution that strives to support the development of Hispanic Filmmakers. We want to thank and congratulate all the people involved with the San Diego Latino Film Festival for providing us with such a significant event for our community. As always, we look forward to being an active participant of this exciting event.

MEDIA ARTS CENTER SAN DIEGO 921 25TH STREET SAN DIEGO, CA 92102-2705

Rick Bregman Market President Bank of America

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation is honored to support the Media Arts Center San Diego “Teen Producers Project” and the “17th Annual San Diego Latino Film Festival”. We salute all cultural organizations dedicated to providing greater access to the arts, and those reflecting the diversity of the communities we serve.

Janet Beronion Senior VP & General Manager Harrah’s Rincon Casino & Resort Janet Beronio is Senior VP and General Manager of Harrah’s Rincon Casino & Resort.

Beronio also serves as vice president of the Angels Depot Board of Directors and as a San Diego North Convention and Visitors Bureau board member. She’s received the North County Philanthropy Council’s Volunteer Award, Casino Enterprise Management magazine’s Great Women of Gaming award and the San Diego Business Journal’s Women Who Mean Business award.

Amtrak

Amtrak® provides rail travel services to more than 500 destinations in 46 states, with nearly 100 destinations in California alone. For schedules, fares and information, visit Amtrak.com or call 1-800-USA-RAIL. Ride to SDLFF 2010!

619.230.1938 619.230.1937 FAX www.MediaArtsCenter.org

Alberto Mier y Terán Vice President & General Manager KBNT-17 Univision KDTF-36 Telefutura UNIVISION 17 San Diego is delighted to join the San Diego Latino Film Festival as they showcase and celebrate Latino Culture. It is an honor to help support and nurture the works of talented, aspiring Latino filmmakers. We strongly believe in being part of the local community by supporting events like the SDLFF that recognizes our Hispanic Community. We invite you to watch the many attending stars and celebrities on UNIVISION SAN DIEGO. ¡¡Nos vemos en el cine!!

Paul Jablonski Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) Paul Jablonski is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS). Mr. Jablonski, oversees operations of the San Diego Trolley, more than 90 MTS Bus routes, and the Taxicab Administration for San Diego. He is a regional director and current board member of the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). MTS was selected as the Outstanding Public Transportation System for North America in 2009 by the American Public Transit Association. MTS bus and trolley routes carry more than 250,000 weekday riders and is expected to carry more than 90 million total riders in 2010.

Jeff Block Vice President / General Manager 10News & Azteca America San Diego 15 and 10News 10News and Azteca America San Diego 15 are proud to support and be part of the San Diego Latino Film Festival. We congratulate the filmmakers whose work is being recognized. We are honored to be part of the thriving bilingual community, and continue to serve the interests of our region with local news information, community action projects and popular entertainment programs. Through San Diego Hoy, we provide Spanish language news, weather and sports updates backed by the full resources of 10News. ¡Felicidades a todos los cineastas y a la comunidad del cine latino!

Changing Lives Through Film

CORPORATE SPOTLIGHTS Karen Kirkland Executive Director, Nickelodeon Writing Fellowship Program Karen Kirkland currently serves as Executive Director of Nickelodeon’s Writing Fellowship Program. The Nick Writing Fellowship is designed to attract, develop and staff diverse writing talent on Nickelodeon Network productions. During her 5-years at Nick, Karen has managed the creative direction and coordination efforts between the Fellowship and series’ productions, show creators and network executives in addition to helping launch the careers of many successful writers.

Stella Artois

Stella Artois, the best-selling Belgian beer in the world, is proud to sponsor the San Diego Latino Film Festival as part of its long-time support of independent film and more than 60 film festivals across the country. Stella Artois traces its origin back to 1366 to the Den Hoorn brewery in Leuven, just outside of Brussels. Originally brewed as a special holiday beer, it was named “Stella,” Latin for “star.” Stella Artois should only be served in its signature Chalice to fully experience the golden lager’s crisp, pleasantly bitter flavor and refreshing finish.

San Diego Padres

The San Diego Padres are proud to be the Mobile Media sponsor for the 2010 Latino Film Festival. As the Team of the Californias, we are committed to providing affordably-priced family entertainment for families in Southern California and the Baja region. Opening Day at beautiful PETCO Park is just around the corner (April 12) so get your tickets today to watch Adrian Gonzalez, Everth Cabrera, Chris Young, and all of your favorite players. Don’t forget that you can also go to www.padresbeisbol.com for all your Padres information in Spanish, and that in Tijuana the Tienda de los Padres is ready to serve you at the Plaza Rio Mall. Play Ball and ¡Viva los Padres!

Ricardo Astiazaran Vice President UniRadio UNIRADIO, La Invasora 99.7 and Pulsar 107.3 are proud to be the Official Spanish Language Radio Partners of the 17th San Diego Latino Film Festival. At UNIRADIO, we are proud to contribute in any way we can to support San Diego Latinos in need. We are especially pleased to be able to use our resources as a media company to support this incredible effort put forward by Ethan Van Thillo and the SDLFF to help Latinos who dream of becoming key players in the film industry.

James M. McNamara Chairman Cinelatino

Cinelatino is the leading premium Spanishlanguage movie channel in the United States with the biggest selection of current blockbuster hits and critically-acclaimed movie titles from Mexico, Latin America, Spain, and the United States. Cinelatino is viewed in more than 3.6 million homes throughout the U.S. and is distributed on major cable, satellite and telephony providers.

Maureen Sullivan President & Publisher San Diego Magazine San Diego Magazine is thrilled to support local artistic achievements and is a proud sponsor of the San Diego Latino Film Festival. Since 1948, San Diego Magazine has aimed to provide the best of San Diego to our readers throughout the city and will continue to support the Latino community.

Rich Magallanes, VP Current Series/ Creative Fellowships

Rich Magallanes, VP Current Series/Creative Fellowships, began his career at Nickelodeon over 13 years ago working on shows such as “Rugrats,” “Wild Thornberrys” and “Angry Beavers.” He has helped launch some of Nick’s biggest hits, including “SpongeBob Squarepants,” “The Fairly OddParents” and the more recent phenomenon, “The Penguins of Madagascar.”

Rich has served as an Executive-In-Charge of Production overseeing series for the past several years. In his most recent tenure, Rich produced FOP’s highest rated telecast ever (19.67K6-11), “Fairly Odd Baby.” He continues his creative endeavors in developing Butch Hartman’s latest creation, “T.U.F.F. Puppy,” staring Nick’s very own Jerry Trainor (iCarly).

Cox Communications

Award-winning Cox Communications is a full-service telecommunications provider that offers the latest in digital and high definition cable television service, high speed Internet, local and long distance telephone service, digital video recorder service, and On Demand programming. Cox also offers businesses commercial services and creative advertising solutions, and owns and operates Channel 4 San Diego.

Sharp HealthCare

Sharp HealthCare - Serving the San Diego community for more than 50 years.

CORPORATE SPOTLIGHTS VeneMovies

Think Blue San Diego

Think Blue, the City of San Diego’s pollution prevention education program in the Storm Water Department is responsible for educating residents and visitors on ways to prevent pollution and protect our waterways in San Diego. Think Blue conducts outreach to local businesses and over 1.2 million residents, and provides education to more than 60,000 school age children per year.

VeneMovies is a Pay TV channel that broadcasts Spanish language films, 24 hours a day, with no commercial breaks and is part of SOMOSTV. SOMOSTV is a company devoted to the exploitation, development and promotion of the growth of pay TV in the US Hispanic market and Puerto Rico.

Tom Karlo General Manager KPBS

El Latino

El Latino is the No.1 Hispanic newspaper in San Diego and the largest Spanish-language owned publication in California. El Latino takes great pride in being a sponsor of the SDLFF. For the past 21 years, El Latino’s promise has been to deliver an engaged Hispanic audience to its valued advertising partners, like the SDLFF. Congratulations to the SDLFF for another exciting year!

KPBS enriches the lives of people in San Diego and Imperial Counties through unique media services. These high quality public service activities educate, inspire, entertain, and advance civic involvement, celebration of culture and the power of diverse perspectives. The most visible areas of KPBS are our media outlets, KPBS-TV, 89.5 FM and kpbs.org. Our platforms deliver award winning news and information like no one else in San Diego

Doug Myers Executive Director and CEO, The Zoological Society of San Diego In 1916, the San Diego Zoo was founded and dedicated to the children of San Diego.

Through the decades we have worked to support our local community through education and outreach about endangered species and habitats in the world. In addition to our work protecting species overseas, the San Diego Zoo works extensively with species in our own backyard, taking a leadership role in the breeding, release and protection of the California condor.

Our release programs for this species span across the U.S /Mexico border; generating cooperation between governments and peoples to protect this important species. In continuation of our community effort, the San Diego Zoo is proud to support the Latino Film Festival and its cultural outreach.

Aeromexico

Honored as the “Best Airline in Mexico” for the fourth consecutive year by readers of Business Traveler magazine, AeroMexico operates more than 600 daily flights to 40 destinations in Mexico, 15 cities across the United States and Canada, and 8 other countries worldwide.

MEDIA ARTS CENTER SAN DIEGO thanks all of our Festival Sponsors for recognizing the important work the organization does all year long. SAN DIEGO LATINO FILM FESTIVAL is the organization’s largest annual fundraiser for programs in the greater San Diego-Tijuana region, such as the TEEN PRODUCERS PROJECT, D.I.Y NEW MEDIA STUDIO and DIGITAL STORY STATION. Please remember to support our sponsors and thank them for being a part of our community.

Text “SDFILM” to 82222 for festival updates!

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Tribute Benjamin Bratt SDLFF 2010 is proud to pay tribute to this native born Californian, Benjamin Bratt, with the screening of two of his acclaimed films, La Mission and Piñero. Bratt was born December 16, 1963 in San Francisco, California.

Together with his mother, Eldy, an activist of indigenous Peruvian heritage, Benjamin and his siblings joined in the Native American occupation of Alcatraz in 1969. Bratt’s active support for Native American causes continues today with the American Indian College Fund, and as a board member for the San Francisco Bay Area’s Friendship House Association of American Indians, and the Native American Health Center. Benjamin was narrator for the mini-series, We Shall Remain, providing a much-needed authentic historical account on PBS’s award-winning American Experience.

Francisco’s American Conservatory Theater; and then left the program to star in television’s Juarez series. He has appeared in over 30 movies and television series since 1991, and has received many Alma, Emmy, Screen Actors’ Guild, Prism, Imagen and NCLR BRAVO Awards and Nominations. In 1999, Bratt was nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his best-known role as Detective Curtis on television’s Law and Order; and just recently he returned to reprise this role. You’ve also enjoyed him in such popular films as Miss Congeniality and Traffic.

La Mission - p. 57 SAT / 3/20 / 7 PM / S7 Piñero - p. 58 SAT / 3/20 / 3:30 PM / S6

Benjamin Bratt earned a B.F.A. degree from UC Santa Barbara, began an M.F.A. graduate program at San

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MARCH 16, 2008

Tribute Gloria Calzada The Sweet Taste of Success

Gloria Calzada is a versatile and well-known television personality across Mexico; and she is also producer of this year’s SDLFF 2010 spotlighted film, Paradas Continuas. Directed by Gustavo Loza, it’s a hilarious coming-of-age story featuring a stellar cast of established and up-and-coming Mexican actors.

Gloria Calzada, who was recently featured on the Annual Latin Grammy Awards, has been a host on numerous Mexican television shows, such as Rumbo a premio lo nuestro (2005); Thalia... La trayectoria (2004); and Homenaje a Raúl Velasco (2006); Likewise, Gloria has hosted and appeared in Netas divinas (2006); El show de Cristina ( 2004); El escándalo del mediodía; El gordo y la flaca Guest Co-Host (2003); and Yo soy Betty, la fea (1999), among many others. Come enjoy her production of Paradas Continuas at this year’s festival.

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March 13th, 6:00 p.m.

Paradas Continuas Dir. Gustavo Loza (2009, 110 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ NO subtitles) Perico and Emilio are both teenagers with girlfriends and high-testosterone levels, who are in desperate need of some privacy. But they don’t know where to go. They both live with their parents, and the girls would never go to the so-called “love motels.” A solution comes in the form of an old VW van, which proves so useful that the friends decide to start a lucrative new business. From SDLFF 2000 special guest Gustavo Loza (“Al Otro Lado”).. IN PERSON: Gloria Calzada & Gustavo Loza

Guest Director Leon Ichaso SDLFF 2010 salutes this year’s Guest Director, Leon Ichaso, with a special presentation of his most recent feature film, “Paraiso,” which he both wrote and directed. Ichaso is a prolific film and television writer, producer, director whose career began in the 1970’s. He has an impressive list of credits to his name, including the acclaimed films “Piñero” (also featured in this year’s festival), and “El Cantante” as well as numerous episodes of hit TV series such as “Miami Vice” and “Saturday Night Live.”

(1985), was a hard-hitting look at life in the barrio and the potent drive of salsa music. It featured salsa sensation Rubén Blades in the starring role.

Leon Ichaso was born in Havana, Cuba into a family of wellknown writers, journalists and artists. His father Justo Rodríguez Santos was one of Cuba’s most respected poets and a pioneer in broadcast TV and radio, and his mother Antonia Ichaso had a radio magazine show in the 40’s. Ichaso left the island for exile in the United States with his mother and sister at age 14. His father stayed behind to continue his unwavering support for the Cuban Revolution. Five years later he joined his family in New York.

Ichaso is considered an “actor’s director” and is best known for his gritty urban realism, showcased in his most popular films: “Piñero” (2001), about the life of Puerto Rican author Miguel Piñero, who had the soul of a poet but lived the life of a thief, and “El Cantante” (2006), a biopic about troubled salsa singer Hector Lavoe, featuring Marc Anthony and Jennifer López.

Subsequently, Ichaso worked in several TV-movies. Among them: “Execution of Justice” (1995), a film about the murders of San Francisco mayor George Moscone and supervisor Harvey Milk; “Ali: An American hero” (2000); and “Hendrix” (2000).

Constantly working, Ichaso has directed numerous episodes for such TV hits as “Miami Vice,” “Saturday Night Live,” “Medium,” “The He first made his mark with the independently made Spanish-lan- Equalizer,” “Sleeper Cell,” “The Cleaner,” and The Division.” He has guage feature, “El Super” (1979), based on an Off-Broadway taught filmmaking in France and is able to work with equal ease and play about an immigrant building superintendent trying to make success in both English and Spanish. his way in New York City. His next film, “Crossover Dreams” (Listen to an in-depth interview with Mr. Ichaso on a podcast of Maria Hinojosa’s radio program “One on One”: http://tinyurl.com/ y8t25wc).

Mr. Ichaso will be in attendance at the following screenings:

March 19, Friday Paraiso - p. 58

Dir. Leon Ichaso (2009, 106 min., USA, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) The dull life of Miami radio personality, Remigio Gallegos, abruptly changes after he answers the phone to find out his son, whom he’s never met, is waiting for him at an immigration office. Wearing a silver cross that belonged to Remigio’s mother, the young man brings a haunting past. Directed by Leon Ichaso (“El Cantante”), “Paraiso” explores generational and class divides within the Cuban exile community of South Florida. Part thriller, part drama, part existential romance, the film explodes with heart, color, music and a desperate tale.

March 20, Saturday Piñero - p. 58

Dir. Leon Ichaso (2001, 103 min., U.S.A., English) “Piñero” tells the story of the explosive life of a Latino icon, the poet-playwright-actor Miguel Piñero, whose urban poetry is recognized as a pre-cursor to rap and hip-hop. After doing time in hard-core Sing-Sing for petty thefts and drug dealing, Piñero’s prison experiences developed into the 1974 Tony-nominated play Short Eyes. The resulting notoriety and fame was too much for the Latino bad-boy genius who retreated to the darker corners of New York City. Screened in honor of director Leon Ichaso, the recipient of a special Tribute at this year’s SDLFF.

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PARTIES

SONIDO LATINO After-Parties at SDLFF 2010!

OPENING PARTY THURSDAY, MARCH 11 9:00 PM - 1:30 AM

at Sè San Diego Hotel, downtown’s sultry boutique hotel (1047 5th Ave., SD, CA 92101) $25 - Attend one of the must-see screenings on Opening Night! Enjoy glamorous festivities at the Sé San Diego Hotel. Hosted by Yolanda S. Walther-Meade, 2 drink tickets are included. Plus fabulous live entertainment and a VIP Meet & Greet. Proceeds benefit MACSD’s Teen Producers Project. Price at the door: $20 (Party Entrance Only) Stroll into the sexy Sé San Diego, and enjoy Opening Night Festivities, hosted by Yolanda S. Walther-Meade. Savor a traveling Trio los Reales. Feel the excitement build with Mariachi Continental de San Diego / Dance the night away to a headliner 18 piece Orquesta Binacional de Mambo, and groove to the tunes of latino lounge and rock en espanol spun by DJ Mambo Castillo in the ballroom of the SE San Diego. 2 drink tickets are included, as well as tray-passed hors d’oeuvres. Steamy salsa and bachata performances by Positive Energy Dance Company, Alma Latina and Bachatamante. VIP Meet & Greet – special guests from the tremendously creative world of Latino film include Carmen Salinas (Mujeres Asesinas), Cruz Angeles (Don’t Let Me Drown), Lisardo Guarinos (Mujeres Asesinas), y más! Take home goodie bags.

Buy Combo Film & Gala Tickets ($25) - choose one of four films: 7:00 PM Regresa, 7:30 PM Musica en Espera, 8:00 PM Don’t Let Me Drown or 8:30 PM Amar

CLOSING PARTY Saturday, MARCH 20 9:00 PM - 1:30 AM

at The U.S. Grant Hotel (326 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101) $30 - Attend one of the must-see screenings on Closing Night! The U.S. Grant will be the place to be and be seen! Hosted by Yolanda S. Walther-Meade, 2 drink tickets are included. Entertainment abounds, and is topped off with a VIP Meet & Greet. Proceeds benefit MACSD’s Teen Producers Project! Price at the door: $25 (Party Entrance Only) Close out the festival with a bang! Join the San Diego Latino Film Festival and international film industry special guests for Closing Night Festivities!

Hosted by Yolanda S. Walther-Meade, saunter into the luxurious first floor of the swanky U.S. Grant. Sip sweet champagne upon arrival. Enjoy tasty traypassed appetizers. Sit back and enjoy the ballads sung by a trio or hum to the melodies of a mariachi. Chill, mix and mingle with Festival VIP’S in the Lounge of the Grant Grill, grooving to the rhythms spun by DJ Mambo Castillo and talent from the Kevin Cooper Trio. Or dance to candelight while 13-piece salsa band sensation Rumbankete serenades you from the balustrade. Forceful tango and sensual bachata by Positive Energy Dance Company and Bachatamante. Glam fashions shown in the Palm Court by the Modeling Training Center. Celebrate another successful year of SDLFF! Take home goodie bags, and discounted event parking provided subject to availability.

Special guests include: Benjamin Bratt (La Mission), Leon Ichaso (Guest Director), Peter Bratt (La Mission), y más!

Buy Combo Film & Gala Tickets ($30) - choose one of four films: 7:00 PM La Mission, 7:30 PM Cosas Insignificantes, 8:00 PM El Baile de la Victoria, or 8:30 PM Cuestion de los Principios

CINE MUJER CELEBRATION Saturday, MARCH 13 9:00 PM - 1:30 AM

at U.S. Grant Hotel’s The Grant Grill (326 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101) Women in Film. Talented directors, producers and actors. Special guests brought to you by SDLFF as part of its Cine Mujer Celebraion. Join The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences, the U.S. Grant and Yolanda S. Walther-Meade at an exclusive post-screening reception! Relish a hosted Spring Sangria and delve into the delish appetizers prepared to perfection by the Grant Grill. Enjoy the Kevin Cooper Jazz Trio and talent while enjoying preferred prices on creative cocktails. Sigh at the tantalizing tango performances from Positive Energy Dance Company. Lounge while celebrating women’s creativity in film. Special guests include: Gloria Calzada (SDLFF Tribute), Maya Zapata (Nikte), y más!

Limited guest list so RSVP ASAP to ethan@mediaartscenter.org. Info: yolandawm@hotmail.com, or 619-230-1938.

Gala Sponsors and supporters include: GEO Residencial, La Cúspide Residencial, San Diego Magazine, Sé San Diego Hotel, U.S. Grant Hotel, The Grant Grill, Modeling Training Center, and Stella Artois

John Lenore Company

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REEL TALKS

REEL TALKS 2010 Behind the Scenes - March 11 - 21, 2010

San Diego Latino Film Festival partners with international and local film communities to bring you a set of live workshops & panel discussions. Reel Talks will take place at UltraStar Mission Valley Cinemas throughout the festival, and will offer emerging filmmakers, screenwriters, artists, scholars, students and film lovers outstanding opportunities to meet with top professionals and learn the craft of cinema in the real world, with with a focus on new trends, insider tips and emerging technologies. Reel Talks Package ... $20.00

Saturday, March 13th, 12PM CINESTESIA: Music Video Workshop An insightful look into the ever-changing world of music video production. Take a close look at how music and film have yielded an entirely new art form, and how it has changed the way we perceive the entertainment industry. Come meet some of the industry’s top players, including directors, musicians and record label executives, who will share their knowledge and real world experience to help you break into the business.

With special guests: Camilo Lara (EMI Latin) and Marla Gamez (X1FM Network).

Sunday, March 21st, 12PM Digital Storytelling: Preserving Nuestras Historias Learn how to create and record personal stories about the people and events that have shaped your life. During this workshop, you’ll learn the basics of digital storytelling, including how to use your home computer and the Internet to post your stories and share with family and friends. Led by MEDIA ARTS CENTER SAN DIEGO’s Patric Stillman (California of the Past) and Melissa Johnson (The People’s Post).

REEL TALKS SCREENINGS: Saturday, March 20th, 12PM Get Your Project on PBS - Pitch Session Thinking about submitting your proposal to LPB’s Open Call or want feedback from funders, filmmakers and local PBS executives? Come and pitch your idea to us! Screen a trailer and get feedback before submitting it anywhere.

If you have a project you feel is suitable for PBS, you should not miss the opportunity to have a personal 10-minute pitching session with Luis Ortiz, Managing Director, Latino Public Broadcasting, and Laura Varela, LPB funded Producer/Director of “As Long as I Remember: American Veteranos”. In order to take advantage of this opportunity, please schedule the limited time-slots by contacting Ethan van Thillo, 619-230-1938 x 101 or email: ethan@mediaartscenter.org

In addition to workshops, the 2010 REEL TALKS Package includes complimentary admission to the following documentaries: As Long As I Remember: American Veteranos Al Mas Alla - p. 64 Titón de la Havana a Guantanamera - p. 66

- p. 64

REEL TALKS Community Partners Please support these organizations and let them know that you appreciate their partnership with the Festival!

Frontera Filmmakers (www.fronterafilmmakers.ning.com) Latino Public Broadcasting Nickelodeon – Nickelodeon Writing Fellowship National University 23

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¡Cine Venezolano!

Hecho en Venezuela

A Celebration of Venezuelan Cinema A Mi Me Gusta

Un Lugar Lejano (p. 56)

Libertador Morales - El Justiciero (p. 56)

La Virgen Negra (p. 60)

(p. 52) Dir. Ralph Kinnard (2008, 87 min., Venezuela, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Margarita Garcia dreams of becoming a great chef, but not in her home country. She leaves everything behind to start a new life in London, but a cruel twist of fate forces her to return to Venezuela. This irresistible cross-cultural romantic comedy proves that food is the way to a woman’s heart.

Dir. Efterpi Charalambidis (2009, 102 min., Venezuela, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Taxi driver by day and cloaked crusader at night, Libertador Morales is an eccentric motorcycle hero intent on stopping a street gang suspected of robbing a church. Venezuela’s official submission to the 2010 Academy Awards, “Libertador Morales” is a film grounded in the real-life problems of crime in Caracas. In Person: Director Efterpi Charalambidis

Dir. Jose Ramon Novoa (2009, 100 min., Venezuela/Argentina/Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Julian, a famous photographer, has just turned 40 and is resigned to the sadness and loneliness of his insular life. When diagnosed with terminal cancer hope recedes even further from him. After dreaming of a photo he has never taken, Julian sets off on a journey to find the image in the photo. In Person: Director Jose Ramon Novoa

Dir. Ignacio Castillo Cottin (2008, 120 min., Venezuela, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) When a traditional sculpture of the Virgin Mary is replaced by a “Black Virgin” at the church of a small Venezuelan fishing village, strange things begin to happen. The sun stops setting, crime becomes non-existent, the sick are miraculously cured, and life is magically transformed for the town’s citizens.

Supported by The Venezuelan Film Institute (CNAC)

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Para La Familia

Fun for the Entire Family- March 11-21, 2010

Come join SDLFF 2010 for these Para la Familia screenings!

PRESENTED BY:

PARA LA FAMILIA Feature Films El Agente 00-P2 - p. 52

An overweight macaw who works as a janitor at the Central Intelligentus Animalus (CIA).

FAMILY FAIR

Nikte - p. 57

March 14 at 11:00 AM - The beloved children’s star, her cousin, Diego, and Nick JR’s Kai-Lan step off the red carpet into the theater lobby to meet their fans. Get your picture taken with Dora, Diego, & Kai-Lan & watch their shows on the Big Screen during this special NICK JR. family presentation presented by NICKELODEON.

Carlitos y El Campo de los Sueños - p. 54

Dora the Explorer ‘Live’ Appearance & Screening

Special episodes (in English) on the BIG SCREEN from NICK Jr including: Dora The Explorer, The Fresh Beat Band, Team Umizoomi & Go Diego Go.

This magical animated fable follows Nikté, an 11-year old girl from preColumbian times who dreams of becoming a powerful princess.

Carlitos is an orphan who has two dreams in life: to find a family who will adopt him and to play soccer for Spain’s national junior team.

Special Pricing $35.00 Family Price includes tickets for 2 Adults & 2 Children for all 4 PARA LA FAMILIA screenings.

Dora the Explorer ‘Live’ Appearance & Screening tickets will be priced at $5.00 for adults / $3.00 for kids 2 – 13 / free for children under 2.

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Cine’mation Arte Latino

Cine’mation

ARTE LATINO

San Diego Latino Film Festival continues to celebrate the magic of animation. This colorful showcase promises something special for everyone.. It’s a collection of art-house and family friendly films that celebrates the power of Latino creativity.

The 17th Annual San Diego Latino Film Festival is proud to once again showcase the outstanding talent of local San Diego / Baja California artists.

Their exciting artwork will be displayed and on sale in the lobby of UltraStar Mission Valley Cinemas at Hazard Center (off 163 Freeway & Friars Rd). Arte Latino 2010 Exhibition & The Arte Latino Collective of Vendors will be available from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily from March 11-21st.

La Onda Arte Latino Lupita Shahbazi Indigenous Wear Gerardo Tumbol Weed

www.myspace.com/agonzoart shahbazi_m@msn.com www.indigenouswear.com www.gerardos-art.com japa_chicana@hotmail.com

15% of all art sales benefit Media Arts Center San Diego’s yearround education programming and services- Teen Producers Project. You can support Teen Producers Project and local Latino artists at the same time!

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT Poster Contest Winner!

Franko Rosas Pelayo Franko Rosas Pelayo, is a creative designer, art director, illustrator, taco chef and some times “pollero”. Currently working, absorbing & using all the knowledge in the region of TijuanaSan Diego. Franko has worked in different types of media, such as TV, Radio, Web & Print. Focusing his work on creativity, aesthetics and innovation. Franko’s target is mostly focused on entrepreneurs, youth culture, folklore, new trends, and research of the social living of the clash of cultures. Currently Mr. Pelayo is collaborating with: 1tercio, a web design collective & école, an artistic-urban project. In which he is the co-founder of both.

Mr. Pelayo’s designs can be view at: www.fr-nko.COM - Biography provided by the artist

Cine’mation - For the Entire Family, p. 71 NICK JR Shorts - Sunday, March 14th, 11:00AM Presented by NICKELODEON Live appearances by Dora, The Explorer, and her cousin Diego (Go Diego Go). Plus the festival’s first appearance by Kai-Lan (Ni Hao, Kai-Lan) Special episodes (in English) on the BIG SCREEN from NICK Jr including: Dora, The Explorer, The Fresh Beat Band, Team Umizoomi, Go Diego Go.

Nikte (Mexico) p. 57

Feature Film. This magical animated fable follows Nikté, an 11 year-old girl from pre-Columbian times who dreams of becoming a powerful princess.. Starring Pedro Armendariz Jr & Maya Zapata.

Spanish w/ English subtitles.

El Agente 00-P2 (Mexico) p. 52

Feature Film. Things get turned upside down at the CIA (Central Intelligentus Animalus) when an untested secret agent gets mistakenly sent to take down the world’s largest crime organization! Voices of Jaime Camil, Dulce Maria, Rogelio Guerra and Silvia Pinal. In Spanish - NO subtitles.

Cine’mation - Art House p. 70 Dozens of animated shorts from Mexico and Spain featuring the Goya Winner LA DAMA Y LA MUERTE and, SUERTES, HUMORES Y PEQUEÑAS HISTORIAS DE LA INDEPENDENCIA, in celebration of Mexico’s Bicentennial. These films are not appropriate for all ages Cine’mation - Documentary

Imaginadores

p. 65 Directed by Daniela Fiore (2008, 83 min., Argentina, in Spanish w/ English Subtitles) “Imaginadores” is the first documentary ever produced to explore the history of comic books in Argentina and their incredible appeal.

Artfully constructed, the film weaves insightful interviews with some of the country’s most popular illustrators with actual animated vignettes of their work to reveal the limitless possibilities of the fantasy genre, often referred to as the “ninth art.” A must for comic book fans or anyone interested in the creative process.

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Premio Coraz贸n Award Categories SAN DIEGO UNION-TRIBUNE Best Narrative Feature Best Documentary Feature Best Animated Feature Best Narrative Short Best Documentary Short Best Animated Short SANDIEGO.COM Best Local Film Best Youth Produced Film Best Student Film Best Experimental Film CINE LATINO Audience Choice Award (Best Feature) CINE LATINO Audience Choice Award (Best Feature Documentary)

Narrative Jury Issa L贸pez Simon Brand Claudio Dabed Calixto Chinchilla

Documentary Jury Evangeline Griego Raymond Telles Carlos Sandoval Mario Diaz

AWARDS PREMIO CORAZON AWARD Designed by: Lizet Benrey Born and raised in Mexico City, Lizet resides in San Diego California. She was an actress on Televisa and studied film at the Universidad Iberoamericana with Guillermo Arriaga among others. She later received a BA in Visual Arts at the University of California, San Diego. Her artwork has been displayed in museums, cultural institutions and art galleries across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Asia and both Western and Eastern Europe. She is currently directing and producing short documentaries for the Media Arts Center, San Diego.

AWARD SPONSORS

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CINE GAY ‘10 Five Years of the Festival’s Cine Gay Showcase Showcase Sponsor: 40 years of Community Service

San Diego Latino Film Festival continues its mission to help correct the often distorted images of the Gay community on television and in films by presenting this landmark showcase of Cine Gay Showcase.

Challenging the historical exclusion of minorities in media, the festival highlights experiences of gay life in different corners of the world, underscoring our common human experience while highlighting the unique expressions of the Latin GLBT community.

CINE GAY & El Mundo Extraño

El Mundo Extraño ‘10 A Celebration of Sci-Fi, Horror, & Fantasy Films from Argentina, Mexico & Spain!

When the theater goes dark and lights begin to flicker on the big screen, prepare to let your imagination soar and escape into worlds of the unknown...

2033

- p. 52

CINE GAY HIGHLIGHTS

In this ambitious sci-fi film, Villaparaiso (formerly Mexico) is ruled by a totalitarian regime led by General Jamaro. Jamaro is also the president of Phaarmax, a company that produces an addictive beverage that can control the minds of the working class. Featuring SDLFF 2008 special guest Raúl Méndez.

Ander - p. 53

Los Aparecidos

A surprise hit at its world premiere at last year’s Berlinale’s ‘Panorama’, Ander is a unique love story between a manly Basque farmer and a Peruvian immigrant, set in an idyllic Basque valley.

Contracorriente - p. 54

Winner of the World Cinema Dramatic Audience Award at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival.

- p. 53

One night, Malena and Pablo, a brother and sister traveling together in Argentina, discover a diary that details crimes committed twenty years ago during Argentina’s military dictatorship. As they dig deeper into the mystery of the diary, truths are revealed that tie them to the murders in a way they never imagined.

No-Do

- p. 57

An ex-con living in the urban Latino community of the Mission District in San Francisco is forced to reconcile the life he thought he had when he discovers his only son is gay.

Following the advice of friend and psychiatrist Jean, Francesca and her husband Pedro move out of the city to a new home. Unfortunately, the new house turns out not to be the respite they hoped. Francesca soon begins to see furtive figures and ghostly shadows everywhere. This stylish horror film is based on a true story.

Chica Busca Chica (Girl Seeks Girl) - p. 54

Viernes de Animas

La Mission - p. 57

Since its debut in 2007, this sexy and hilarious web series has emerged as Spain’s most successful webisode series.

Dzi Croquettes - p. 65

- p. 60

After an eerie incident in a bar, Andy is forced to disclose a secret: he has the power to predict the future and communicate with the dead. His powers are confirmed when Andy visits the home of Hugo’s mother, which appears to be possessed by evil forces.

This irreverent documentary by Raphael Alvarez and Tatiana Issa is an examination of the formation and influence of the all-male Cabaret group Dzi Croquettes.

Cine Gay Shorts Program - p. 72

90 - minute collection of 10 shorts from US, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Spain and Brazil that focus on lesbian and gay life.

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LATINOS ON TV

Mujeres Asesinas Mujeres Asesinas Uncensored!

Mujeres Asesinas is part of SDLFF’s “Latinos on TV” Showcase.

Join us to celebrate the huge success of this series on both sides of the border. See uncensored versions of new and past shows, participate in a Q&A with producers, and get your photo taken with guest actors/actresses from the series. With its fun, campy style, Mujeres Asesinas portrays strong female characters of all ages.

SDLFF 17 screens two episodes from Mujeres Asesinas: Carmen, Honrada. In this episode, Carmen (Carmen Salinas) tries to keep a brave face in spite of constant humiliations. She faces a hard life of sacrifice striving to get her family ahead.

Sandra, Trepadora stars Lisardo Guarinos and Itati Cantorol. A young conservative woman suddenly awakens to the sexual power she has over men.

A cross between the U.S. shows, Desperate Housewives and Dexter, Mujeres Asesinas explodes with dark humor and depicts Come meet guest actors: Carmen Salinas (former SDLFF Tributee women taking revenge against those who have treated them winner), Lisardo Guarinos and Producer Pedro Torres, on badly. The series is based on the book “Asesinas” from author, Friday, March 12th.

Marisa Grinstein, and was shown in Argentina and Mexico before becoming a big hit in the U.S.. In fact, the premiere of the Latinos in TV presented by: show’s second season got higher ratings on Spanish language Univision than any of the English language networks during the same time slot!

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CINE MUJER

Cine Mujer From the earliest days of cinema, women have demonstrated their prowess as masterful filmmakers, tackling virtually every behind-the-scenes role imaginable on films ranging from melodramatic morality tales to sci-fi/Western mashups. Women have truly done it all. Yet, they remain dramatically under-employed in the world of studio filmmaking.

In 2008, women comprised only 9% of directors and 12% of writers working on the top 250 domestic grossing films (The Celluloid Ceiling). Film festivals have proven to be far more welcoming venues for female storytellers. According to a study conducted last year by The Center for the Study of Women in Television and Film at San Diego State University, behind-the-scenes women accounted for 22% of directors and 19% of writers working on feature-length films appearing at festivals (Independent Women).

Independent features and documentaries screening at festivals like the San Diego Latino Film Festival offer invaluable opportunities for women filmmakers and audiences to intermingle, sharing perspectives and insights into the human condition that may not align with the current interests of studios increasingly beholding to corporate imperatives and narrow audience demographics. For audiences seeking out the unique and diverse, the festival experience excels. The San Diego Latino Film Festival is proud to present the following films as part of the Cine Mujer celebration. Enjoy.

- Written by Dr. Martha Lauzen, Director & Founder, Center for the Study of Women In Television and Film, San Diego State University

Feature Films:

Chica Busca Chica dir. Sonia Sebastian p. 54 Cinco Dias Sin Nora dir. Mariana Chenillo p. 54 Cosas Insignificantes dir. Andrea Martinez p. 54 Entre Nos dirs. Gloria La Morte & Paola Mendoza p. 55 Libertador Morales dir. Efterpi Charalambidis p. 56 Nevando Voy dir. Candela Figueira & Maitena Muruzabal p. 57 The Station of the Forgotten Sandra Serna (co-directed) p. 57

Shorts:

5 Recuerdos dir. Oriana Alcaine & Alejandra Marquez p. 73 Bajo el Mismo Techo dir. Taila Garcia Aach Breaking Borders dir. Diana Cordova p. 72 Buen Viaje dir. Irene Zoe Alameda p. 73 Callense, Callense Rebeca Aleman (Co-directed) p. 75 Cecilia dir. Emily Reese p. 73 Ciudadanos del Cielo dir. Concepcion Calvo Herrera p. 75 Cleats dir. Maria Agui Carter p. 77 Como Marilyn Si Hay Dos dir. Olivia Portillo p. 72 Cordao Verde Rossana Torres (Co-directed) p. 72 Ebony Goddess: Queen of Ile Aiye dir. Carolina Moraes-Liu p. 77 El Paraiso de Lili dir. Melina Leon p. 73 Fair Lawn dir. Esra Saydam p. 70 Gordita dir. Debby Wolfe p. 73 Hermanos dir. Maria Biber-Ferro p. 77 Holy Water dir. Tatiana Lamela Rabell p. 72 Iker Pelos Tiesos dir. Sandra Garcia Velten p. 74 In The Name of Freedom dir. Isabel Cueva p. 73 Lagrimas de Café dir. Claudia Mercado p. 73 Lucrecia dir. Melanie Delloye p. 73 Martina dir. Mariana Gutierrez p. 70 Medellin, ¿Cómo Te Convierto En Un Objeto? dir. Patricia Montoya p. 75 Miracle dir. Xochitl Gonzalez p. 74 News From Afar dir. Shawna Baca p. 77 Red Mesa dir. Ilana Lapid p. 73 Roma dir. Elisa Miller p. 77 Senal de Vida dir. Diana Penaloza Diaz p. 75 Solitud dir. Alicia Segovia p. 76 The Fence dir. Rory Kennedy p. 70 Todo Exterior dir. Mercedes Dominguez p. 74 Together dir. Gigi Romero p. 74 Waiting dir. Patricia Rincon and Paula Zacharias p. 76 Whales of Gold dir. Lucia Duncan p. 73 Worse Case Scenario Butch dir. Mary Guzman p. 78 Worse Case Scenario Femme dir. Mary Guzman p. 78

Documentaries:

2501 Migrants: A Journey dir. Yolanda Cruz p. 64 Al Mas Alla dir. Lourdes Portillo p. 64 Chevolution Trisha Ziff (Co-directed) p. 64 La Clave dir. Mariella Sosa p. 64 DZI Croquettes Tatiana Issa (Co-directed) p. 65 El General dir. Natalia Almada p. 65 Imaginadores dir. Daniela Fiore p. 65 As Long As I Remember: American Veteranos dir Laura Varela p. 64

CINE MUJER MADE POSSIBLE BY:

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YOUTH VISIONS

YOUTH VISIONS With all the excitement over our celebrity guests and the great international roster of films, it’s easy to forget that the festival is MEDIA ARTS CENTER SAN DIEGO’s largest fundraiser for its year round programming that empowers local youth to use digital media technology. We hope that you will come out to support this program of films written, directed, and produced by our youth.

MEDIA ARTS CENTER SAN DIEGO is proud to present YOUTH VISIONS 2010 – an eclectic array of socially conscious documentaries and experimental shorts from media centers and schools throughout the country. In this program, young filmmakers from New York, Los Angeles and San Diego lend their perspectives to important social issues such as immigration, racism and community violence that are directly affecting their neighborhoods, homes, schools, and lives.

TPP funding from City of San Diego Commission for Arts & Culture, Marine Corps Community Services MCRD San Diego, San Diego Foundation, California Arts Council - Youth Education in the Arts, LISC San Diego, Environmental Health Coalition, and Rescue Social Change Group.

FILMS

Youth Visions presented by:

Solara Dir. Students: Rami Hamze, Monica Venegas, Lorena Luna, Linda Camacho, Edwin Bailon, Alex Lee, Gaby Sanchez, Ruth Chamu (9 min.)

This short explores how an affordable housing community in Poway is doing their part to improve the environment.

Youth and Recession Dir. Jesus Andrew Molina, Brandon Gilbert, Dante Camberlen, Monique Castillo (4 min.)

Andrew Molina, a high school senior from Point Loma High school, talks about the recession and how it has affected youth culture.

La Profe: Educational Excellence Dir. Enrique Garcia and Johnny Garcia (5 min.)

City College professor Elva solinas talks about the educational system and her experience leading the way for educational reform.

Sister Margaret Dir. Christopher Quarles, Britt Gilbert, Lovely Winters, Christian Winters (4 min.)

Sister Margaret Castro talks about her experience working with Mother Teresa in India, working with lepers and discarded children.

From The Hands of our Ancestors Dir. Muna (3 min.)

A Crawford High School student remenisces about her native Somalia, and how food has helped to make San Diego home.

Bitter Memories Dir. Joshua Marston (2009, 14 min., USA, English) Rob is a young man who grows up watching his father abuse his mother.

Danilo Goes To Joshua Tree Dir. Anais Hinojosa, Aura Oropeza Tellez, Noah Prestwich, Nicole NelsonCampos, Samuel Romero (2009, 5 min. USA, English) A family vacation to Joshua Tree is anything but ideal for young Danilo.

Adventure Dir. Davita Gruber (2009, 7 min., USA, English) For years, young hobbits Madoc and Pelón have heard stories from their grandfathers about their adventures in the deep, dark forest.

I Was Here Dir. Woodrow white (2009, 5 min,USA, English) A humorous and insightful look at graffiti.

Tenant’s Rights Dir. Teen Producers project (2009, USA, 10 min., English & Spanish w/ subtitles) The story of how substandard housing conditions affect the health and safety of one family.

SALTA! Environmental Health Coalition Dir. Adolfo Espinoza, Alan Lilienthal, Alex Obregón, Carlos Olmedo, James Warner, Freddy López, Jasmine Allen, Jose Hernández, Micah Fluhart, Katya Martin-Gullans (10 min.)

When their families begin to fall ill, women in the San Diego/tijuana area begin to question whether their environment may have something to do with it.

Margaret Garcia: Murals vs. Graffiti Dir. Albert Celis (2009, 5 min. USA, English) Artist Margaret Garcia discusses murals in the community.

Leo Limón: Life is Art Dir. Ashley Ruíz (2009, 5 min, USA, English) Leo Limón discusses his art of painting cats.

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¡TU CINE!

TU CINE TU CINE presented by:

2010 FREE Student Outreach Screenings March 16th – 19th All Screenings at UltraStar Mission Valley Cinemas at Hazard Center TU CINE Student Screenings, in conjunction with the 17th Annual San Diego Latino Film Festival, cordially invite you to watch films created by today’s up-and-coming Latino filmmakers! It’s a wonderful opportunity for students and educators to experience local and international cinema. Films are appropriate for middle school, high school, and college audiences. The goal is to engage students and encourage dialogue about entertaining and educational films, and careers in filmmaking and digital media.

Morning screenings are geared toward middle school and high school audiences from 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. and are FREE. Students and staff are asked to arrive at 9:30 a.m. for check-in.

SCREENING SCHEDULE: Tuesday (March 16th, 10AM): Youth Visions - works by teens from throughout U.S.. Recommended for High Schools - p. 77-78 Wednesday (March 17th, 10AM): Nikte; a fun Mexican animated feature film. Recommended for Middle Schools - p. 57 Thursday (March 18th, 10AM): Cortos Latinos - a diverse celebration of international short films. Recommended for High Schools.

Friday (Friday, March 19th): Sons of Cuba - award-winning documentary film. Recommended for High Schools - p. 66

Leave the driving to the San Diego Trolley Take advantage of the discounted Classroom Day Tripper Tickets 619-233-9558

NARRATIVE FEATURES

NARRATIVE FEATURES Amar

2033

THURS / 3/11 / 8:30 PM / S1 SUN/ 3/14 / 9:45 / S3

SAT / 3/13 / 10:00 PM S7 WED / 3/17 / 10:00 PM S7 FRI / 3/19 / 10:15 PM S6

Dir. Francisco Laresgoiti (2009, 100 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) In this ambitious sci-fi film, Villaparaiso (formerly Mexico) is ruled by a totalitarian regime led by General Jamaro. Jamaro is also the president of Phaarmax, a company that produces an addictive beverage that can control the minds of the working class. Their fate rests on the shoulders of Pablo, a young man born into privilege, who awakens to the truth and joins the revolutionary movement. Partly inspired by the Cristero War, “2033” is boldly allegorical and richly designed, heralding the arrival of a visionary filmmaker. Featuring SDLFF 2008 special guest Raúl Méndez.

Dir. Jorge Ramírez Suárez (2009, 107 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) The award-winning director of “Conejo en la luna” returns with this urban romantic comedy that weaves stories of love through the eyes of five people. Whether Susana is turning down Carlos, Joel is bending over backwards for Patricia, Gabriel is waiting for Martha, or Amado is trying his luck with an American girl, everyone’s in pursuit. But life has a way of making their search for love a frustrating endeavor. Starring Tony Dalton, Bruno Bichir and Itati Cantora, all guests of previous editions of the SDLFF.

Amar a Morir

A Mi Me Gusta MON / 3/15 / 4:00 PM S7 TUES / 3/16 / 8:00 PM S6 SUN / 3/21 / 11:00 AM S7

Dir. Ralph Kinnard (2008, 87 min., Venezuela, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Margarita Garcia dreams of becoming a great chef, but not in her home country. She leaves everything behind to start a new life in London, but a cruel twist of fate forces her to return to Venezuela. Life back home proves painful until Paul Welsare, an admired British chef, arrives in Caracas for work. She sets out to impress him and earn herself a ticket back to England but this time love gets in the way of Margarita’s plans. This irresistible cross-cultural romantic comedy proves that food is the way to a woman’s heart.

El Agente 00-P2

Dir. Fernando Lebrija (2009, 119 min., Mexico/Colombia, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Alejandro Vizcaino is the sole heir to his father’s banking conglomerate, but he sees his wealth as a burden rather than a blessing.

Dealing with his controlling father has made him deeply unhappy.

In an act of rebellion, he flees his family and ends up in an impoverished, seaside community where he falls in love with Rosa, a local girl. But Rosa has problems of her own. She lives under the oppressive thumb of a gangster. Now Alejandro must finally find the courage to fight for the life he wants. With Raúl Méndez and Silverio Palacios.

Amor en Fin SAT / 3/13 / 11:00 AM S7 SAT / 3/20 / 1:30 PM S7

Dir. Andrés Couturier (2008, 93 min., Mexico, Spanish)

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FRI / 3/12 / 7:00 PM / S7 SAT / 3/13 / 9:45 / S3

This animated romp from Mexico tells the story of Tambo, an overweight macaw who works as a janitor at the Central Intelligentus Animalus (CIA). By mistake, the film’s dim-witted hero is assigned the most important mission in the agency’s history: to prevent the evil Mama Bear from turning the world into ice. Along with JJ, an old turtle in charge of the “advanced” technology lab in the agency, Tambo embarks on a wondrous journey to prove he’s got what it takes to be a bona fide agent. Featuring the voices of Jaime Camil and Mexican acting legend Silvia Pinal.

TUES / 3/16 / 10:00 PM / S7 THURS / 3/18 / 7:00 PM / S7 SAT / 3/20 / 10:15 PM / S6 Dir. Salvador Aguirre (2009, 90 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) In this engrossing social drama set against the backdrop of the 2006 Mexican elections, not only is the country’s future uncertain but also the fate of the film’s three main characters. Sofia’s marriage is crumbling, Luis is vying for a promotion, and Yolanda will do anything to escape poverty. Each one is faced with a daunting decision that could radically alter their lives. But can they, or the election, truly change anything? Starring Daniel Giménez Cacho and Oscar-nominated actress Adriana Barraza (“Babel”).

Ander

El Baile de la Victoria FRI / 3/12 / 10:30 PM / S1 THURS / 3/18 / 5:00 PM / S3 SUN / 3/20 / 8:00 PM / S6

THURS / 3/11 / 9:45 PM / S3 SAT / 3/13 / 10:15 PM / S6 THURS / 3/18 / 7:30 PM / S3

Dir. Roberto Castón (2009, 128 min., Spain, Basque w/ English Subtitles.

A surprise hit at last year’s Berlinale’s Panorama section, “Ander” is a unique love story between a Basque farmer and a Peruvian immigrant, set in an idyllic Basque valley. The film marks the directorial debut of Roberto Castón, the director of the Gay and Lesbian Film Festival in Bilbao, and holds the distinction of being the first gay-themed film to emerge from the burgeoning Basque cinema. With distant echoes of “Brokeback Mountain”, “Ander” is a deliberately-paced story of a man coming to terms with his solitude and sexuality amid a conservative society’s stumbling attempts to recast its values in modern times.

Los Aparecidos

Dir. Fernando Trueba (2009, 127 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles)

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Spain’s official submission to the 2010 Academy Awards, the film tells the story of two thieves during Chile’s transition to democracy.

After a general amnesty was given to prisoners incarcerated for minor crimes, Angel Santiago is released from jail. Fixated on pulling off the biggest heist of his life, he convinces Vergara Grey, a retired robber who specializes in cracking safes, to help him. But their plan hits a snag when they meet Victoria, a dancer with a dark past.

From the director of “Belle Epoque” and “Calle 54,” and starring Argentine sensation Ricardo Darín.

Birdwatchers THURS / 3/11 / 10:00 PM / S7 SAT / 3/20 / 9:45 PM / S3

Dir. Paco Cabezas (2007, 120 min., Argentina, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) One night, Malena and Pablo, a brother and sister traveling together in Argentina, discover a diary that details crimes committed twenty years ago during Argentina’s military dictatorship. Later, after checking into a hotel, the siblings hear a man being murdered in the next room and his family abducted in a manner described word for word in the diary. The siblings’ trip soon becomes a nightmare where they cannot discern whether they people they are trying to save are real or ghosts from the past. As they dig deeper into the mystery of the diary, truths are revealed that tie them to the murders in a way they never imagined.

Arrancame la Vida

MON / 3/15 / 8:30 PM / S1 SAT / 3/20 / 10:30 PM / S1

Dir. Marco Bechis (2008, 104 min., Brazil, Portuguese & Guarani w/ Subtitles) The Guarani, one of Brazil’s oldest Indian communities, are forced to live on government mandated reservations in impoverished conditions. Out of despair many resort to suicide. And it is just such a suicide that incites a rebellion. Problems ensue when they set out to inhabit their ancestral land which is being occupied by “Fazendieros,” rich Brazillian farm owners who live in huge plantation homes. While each side battles the other, an unlikely relationship develops between Osvaldo, a young shaman apprentice, and a farmer’s daughter. A hit at the 2008 Venice Film Festival.

La Buena Vida SAT / 3/13 / 1:30 PM / S7 SUN / 3/14 / 8:00 PM / S6

Dir. Roberto Sneider (2008, 107 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) The most expensive Mexican film ever made (and a huge box office hit in that country), “Arráncame la Vida” is a period drama set during Mexico’s tumultuous, post-revolutionary period of the 1930s and ’40s. It follows Catalina Guzmán, a young peasant from Puebla who marries Andrés Ascencio, a charismatic and powerful man twice her age. A corrupt politician and womanizer, he tries to bend her to his will but Catalina’s spirit would not be broken. Starring Daniel Gimenez Cacho & Ana Claudia Talancón.

FRI / 3/12 / 5:00 PM / S3 SUN / 3/14 / 6:00 PM / S6 FRI / 3/19 / 5:00 PM / S3

Dir. Andrés Wood (2008, 90 min., Chile, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Andres Wood’s latest follows four urban characters chasing after their respective dreams in Santiago, Chile. Teresa is a psychologist trying to save lives; Edmundo is a hairdresser who dreams of owning a car; Mario wishes to join the Philharmonic; and Patricia is just trying survive each day. Misfortune inevitably finds them all, redirecting their lives in ways that will ultimately surprise them. Winner of Spain’s prestigious Goya Award for Best Latin American Film.

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Carlitos

SUN / 3/14 / 7:00 PM / S7 WED / 3/17 / 4:00 PM / S7 SUN / 3/21 / 2:30 PM / S3

TUES / 3/16 / 4:00 PM / S7 SUN / 3/21 / 4:00 PM / S7

Dir. Jesús del Cerro (2008, 107 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Carlitos is an orphan who has two dreams in life: to find a family who will adopt him and to play soccer for Spain’s national junior team. With the help of his fellow orphans and his best friend Chunks, he attempts to sneak out of the orphanage to attend the try-outs. However, he must first avoid the probing eyes of Hipólito, the bitter caretaker of the orphanage, who hates sports and will do anything to prevent Carlitos from achieving his dreams. This heartwarming family tale marks the feature debut of Jesús del Cerro.

Chamaco

Dir. Mariana Chenillo (2008, 92 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) This impressive directorial debut is a wonderfully dark comedy about a man who is confronted with questions of faith, family, and love. The film opens with José discovering Nora, his ex-wife, dead in her apartment.

She has committed suicide. Before her death, however, Nora devised a plan to bring her family together and José back in touch with his faith.

As the plan is set into motion, José becomes increasingly convinced that his wife is intent on controlling him, even in death. Starring Enrique Arreola and Cecilia Suárez (2008 SDLFF guest).

Contracorriente SAT / 3/13 / 6:30 PM / S1 WED / 3/17 / 9:45 PM / S3 SAT / 3/20 / 4:00 PM / S7

Dir. Miguel Necoechea (2009, 97 min., Mexico/USA, English w/ Spanish Subtitles) Trapped in the tough life of Mexico City, Abner dreams of becoming a professional boxer. Frank Irwin, an American doctor who runs a clinic in the city, and his son Jimmy, an Olympic boxing medalist whose pro career burnt out quickly, come together to teach the kid the proper skills. In the process, they struggle to overcome the differences that damaged their relationship long ago. Director Miguel Necoechea wrote and directed this inspiring film that features Martin Sheen, Michael Madsen and four-time world champion Marco Antonio Barrera.

WED / 3/17 / 8:30 PM / S1 SUN / 3/21 / 1:30 PM / S7

Dir. Javier Fuentes-León (2009, 100 min., Perú-Colombia, Spanish w/ English SubIn a small village on the north coast of Perú, Miguel, a married fisherman, has an affair with Santiago, a painter who is looked-down upon for being agnostic and open about his homosexuality. When Santiago accidentally drowns, his ghost returns to ask Miguel to find his body and bury it according to the village rituals. This request puts Miguel at a crossroads. If he fulfills his wishes, everyone in town will find out about the affair, but if he doesn’t, his lover’s soul will never rest in peace. Winner of the World Cinema Dramatic Audience Award at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival.

Cosas Insignificantes Chica Busca Chica SAT / 3/13 / 8:00 PM / S6 FRI / 3/19 / 10:30 PM / S1

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Dir. Sonia Sebastian (2009, 80 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Since its debut in 2007, this sexy and hilarious comedy has emerged as Spain’s most successful web series. Spain’s answer to “The L Word,” “Chica Busca Chica” explores the funny side of dating, cheating, and lesbian life in present-day Madrid through the intertwining lives of its central characters, nicknamed “the flirt,” “the psycho,” “the hetero,” and “the newbie.” This special festival presentation collects the first series of episodes as a feature-length film.

THURS / 3/11/ 5:00 PM / S3 TUES / 3/16 / 7:00 PM / S7 SAT / 3/20 / 7:30 PM / S3

Dir. Andrea Martine (2009, 98 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitle Esmeralda is a teenager who works in a Mexico City restaurant and has an unusual obsession. She collects items either discarded or forgotten by strangers and keeps them in a box under her bed. Fed up with the world, she spends most of her time making up elaborate stories about the objects and the people to whom they belong. One day, Dr. Gabrieli, a neighbor, leaves behind a piece of paper containing an important phone number. Through a series of events, Esmeralda befriends the old man and begins to learn that true human connections can only exist in reality. Starring Bárbara Mori (2009 SDLFF guest) and Paulina Gaitán (2010 Ariel award nominee for best actress).

Cuestión de Principios

Entre Nos THURS / 3/11 / 4:00 PM / S7 MON / 3/15 / 5:00 PM / S3 SAT / 3/20 / 8:30 PM / S1

WED / 3/17 / 10:30 PM / S1 THURS / 3/18/ 8 PM / S6 SAT / 3/20 / 6:30 PM / S1

Dir. Rodrigo Grande (2009, 110 min., Argentina, Spanish w/ English Subtitles)

Dir. Gloria la Morte and Paola Mendoza (2009, 82 min., USA, Spanish w/ English Subtitles)

Adalberto Castilla, a port employee with unwavering ethical standards, is about to retire. His new boss, Silva, is an avid collector of an old literary magazine called “Tertulias.” To complete his collection he needs issue #48, which Castilla happens to own. Silva offers to buy it from him but the old man refuses. In his words: “Not everything has a price tag.” Silva insists, making him lavish offers, but Castilla is intent on teaching this “yuppie” a lesson in ethics. Written by popular Argentine humorist Rodrigo Fontanarrosa and featuring acting legends Federico Luppi and Norma Aleandro.

Shortly after arriving in Queens, NY from Colombia, Mariana and her two children are abandoned by her husband. After a fruitless search for work, they take to the streets collecting recyclables in order to make ends meet. Faced with homelessness in the inhospitable landscape of a foreign city, Mariana begins to build a community from which to draw strength and support in this fierce tale of survival.

This inspiring festival favorite is based on the true story of co-director Paola Mendoza’s mother.

Dawson, Isla 10

El Estudiante FRI / 3/12 / 7:30 PM / S3 SUN / 3/14 / 2:30 PM / S3 TUES / 3/16 / 9:45 PM / S3

FRI / 3/12 / 4 PM / S7 SUN / 3/14 / 12PM / S3 MON / 3/15 / 8 PM / S6

Dir. Miguel Littin (2009, 117 min., Chile, Spanish w/ English Subtitles)

Dir. Roberto Girault (2009, 95 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles)

After the 1973 coup that deposed Allende and brought Pinochet to power in Chile, the former members of his cabinet were imprisoned in the Dawson Island prison camp. Enduring hellish conditions, they developed strong bonds and relied on each other for hope and strength.

Two-time Academy-Award nominated director Miguel Littin chronicles the ordeal of these dissidents who were determined to survive and share their experiences with the world. Chile’s official submission to the 2010 Academy Awards. Starring Cristián de la Fuente.

In this comedy hit, Chano, a 70 year-old man from the picturesque state of Guanajuato decides to enroll in the local university to study literature. Initially, he has trouble relating to the much younger students there, but drawing inspiration from Don Quijote he eventually manages to close the generational gap and become their friend. He begins to offer them advice, solicited or not, but after tragedy strikes he realizes that he has much to learn from them as well. Starring Jorge Lavat.

Don’t Let Me Drown

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El Frasco THURS / 3/11 / 8:00 PM / S6 THURS / 3/11 / 10:30 PM / S1 FRI / 3/19 / 8 PM / S6 SUN / 3/21 / 7:30 PM / S3

Dir. Cruz Angeles (2009, 105 min., USA, English) Cruz Angeles’ first feature is a moving testament to the power of love and friendship in the face of tragedy. Lalo and Stephanie are two Brooklyn kids, both of whom have been personally affected by the 9/11 tragedy. After meeting at a mutual friend’s party at a local park, Lalo begins to pursue a still-grieving, hesitant Stephanie. With patience, humor and authentic emotion, Cruz shows the slow evolution of their relationship, which provides them solace from the pain and struggle of everyday life. Premiered at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival. With Gina Torres, Damian Alcazar and Ricardo Chavira (“Desperate Housewives”).

Dir. Alberto Lecchi (2008, 97 min., Argentina/Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Perez is a shy, serious, and somewhat clumsy bus driver whose habit of not speaking has earned him the nickname “The Mute.” A creature of habit, each day he travels the same route, goes to the same restaurant and even orders the same food. When he meets Romina, a goodhearted school teacher, his routine is forever altered. An awkward, but tender courtship develops which is ultimately threatened by a mishap involving a urine sample jar! Starring Darío Grandinetti and Leticia Bredice.

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NARRATIVE FEATURES Libertador Morales - El Justiciero

Gigante SAT / 3/13 / 7:30 PM / S3 WED / 3/17 / 5PM / S3

Dir. Adrián Biniez (2009, 84 min., Uruguay, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Jara, a heavy-set surveillance officer working the graveyard shift, leads a dull and routine existence. He watches CCTV monitors all night long, sleeps away the daylight hours on his sofa, solves crossword puzzles, listens to heavy metal on his iPod and spends some time with his nephew. Things change when he notices a young cleaning woman, Julia, on his monitors, and he becomes fascinated with her to the point of obsession. He starts to wait for her to come out in the morning after work and shadows her through the streets of Montevideo. Winner of three prizes at the 2009 Berlin Film Festival.

WED / 3/17 / 7:30 PM / S3 SAT / 3/20 / 1 PM / S6 SUN / 3/21 / 9:45 PM / S3

Dir. Efterpi Charalambidis (2009, 102 min., Venezuela, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Taxi driver by day and cloaked crusader at night, Libertador Morales is an eccentric motorcycle hero intent on stopping a street gang suspected of robbing a church. Venezuela’s official submission to the 2010 Academy Awards, “Libertador Morales” is a film grounded in the real-life problems of crime in Caracas. Accused of a heinous crime he did not commit, Libertador is driven by a desire for vindication and an innate sense of justice. Through the course of his adventure, he adopts a zany cohort and finds something else to fight for: love. With Rafael Gil and Alba Vallvé.

I’m Not Like That No More Un Lugar Lejano FRI / 3/19 / 9:45 PM / S3 SUN / 3/21 / 10:30 PM / S1

SAT / 3/13 / 3 PM / S1 TUES / 3/16 / 5 PM / S3 FRI / 3/19 / 8:30 PM / S1

Dir. Christian Sesma (2009, 90 min., USA, English) SDSU alumnus Christian Sesma returns to San Diego with his first feature film, a roaring comedy about a 30 year-old slacker named Felipe who still lives at home with his extended Mexican-American family. Even though he says he wants to do better in life - get a job, lose weight, face his fears - nothing ever changes. By accident he bumps into Jill Idleberry, an old high-school classmate, who gives him the motivation he desperately needs to turn his life around. But is it too late? Starring Latino comedy heavyweights Paul Rodríguez and Felipe Esparza.

Io, Don Giovanni FRI / 3/12 / 8 PM / S6 SUN / 3/14 / 1PM / S6 SAT / 3/20 / 11 AM / S7

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Dir. Carlos Saura (2009, 127 min,. Italy/Spain, Italian & German w/ Subtitles) Master filmmaker Carlos Saura returns to narrative cinema with this lush portrait of opera composer Lorenzo Da Ponte. Once a priest, Da Ponte’s affair with a woman and the subsequent opening of his own brothel had him banished to Vienna. There, he fell into the court and was introduced to the king’s favorite composer, Salieri, and to a newcomer named Mozart. Hoping to undermine his rival, Salieri tricks Mozart into hiring this unknown libertine as his librettist. However, da Ponte draws from his own sordid life and the adventures of the infamous Giacomo Casanova to help Mozart pen one of his most renowned compositions: Don Giovanni.

Dir. José Ramón Novoa (2009, 100 min., Venezuela/Argentina/Spain, Spanish w/ Subtitles) Julian, a famous photographer, has just turned 40 and is resigned to the sadness and loneliness of his insular life. When diagnosed with terminal cancer hope recedes even further from him. After dreaming of a photo he has never taken, Julian sets off on a journey to find the image in the photo. Stumbling upon a woman and a strange accident, these new experiences will change his life forever. Starring Tristan Ulloa.

La Mala SUN / 3/14 / 4 PM / S7 WED / 3/17 / 8 PM / S6

Dir. Lilian Rosado, Pedro Pérez-Rosado (2008, 90 min., Puerto Rico/Spain, Spanish w/English Subtitles) Yolanda always knew that she was destined for great things beyond the limits imposed by her family and the small-minded values of her Puerto Rican town of Guayama. Inspired by salsa sensation “La Lupe” and encouraged by her aunt, she begins to sing with a local band.

Her talent for music is undeniable and she seems well on her way to stardom. However, her womanizing father creates unexpected family dramas that threaten to squelch her dreams. Starring Pedro Perugorría, Sully Díaz, and María Isabel Díaz.

La Mission

Nevando Voy SAT / 3/20 / 7 PM / S7 SUN / 3/21 / 10:15 PM / S6

FRI / 3/12 / 6 PM / S6 TUES / 3/16 / 7:30 PM / S3

Dir. Peter Bratt (2009, 117 min., USA, English)

Dir. Candela Figueira and Maitena Muruzabal (2008, 99 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles)

An ex-con living in the urban Latino community of the Mission District in San Francisco is forced to reconcile the life he thought he had when he discovers his only son is gay. In an exceptional performance, Benjamin Bratt takes on the lead role of the reformed bad boy in this story of healing and transformation. Directed by Peter Bratt, Benjamin’s brother, the film won acclaim at the 2009 San Francisco and Sundance Film Festivals.

It’s winter in a snow-chain factory and the orders are piling up.

When Javier, the supervisor, asks management for reinforcements, three more employees arrive. At first the atmosphere at the factory is as dreary as the frigid weather outside. But things change when one of the employees, to combat her absolute boredom, begins to break the rules little by little. The others catch on but rather than report her, they join in and transform their workplace into a festive playground.

This impressive first film by Candela Figueira and Maitena Muruzabal captures factory life in a way rarely seen: personal, flirtatious, introspective.

Morenita, El Escándalo

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Nikte FRI / 3/12 / 9:45 PM / S3 MON / 3/15 / 7 PM / S7 THURS / 3/18 / 10 PM / S7

Dir. Alan Jonsson Gavic (2008, 92 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) This first film from director Alan Jonsson Gavica, “Morenita” tells the story of Mateo, a humble young man who is forced to engage in illicit activities in order to save his grandfather from an illness. He agrees to smuggle drugs from Tijuana to San Diego, using a method as ingenious as it is preposterous: he employs racing pigeons as drug couriers. When his plan goes awry, and facing death threats from a notorious Mexican drug dealer, he hijacks the image of the venerated Virgin De Guadalupe, causing pandemonium throughout Mexico.

Starring Dagoberto Gama and Maya Zapata, previous SDLFF guests.

SAT / 3/13 / 7 PM / S7 THURS / 3/18 / 4 PM / S7

Dir. Ricardo Arnaiz (2009, 86 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) This magical animated fable follows Nikté, an 11 year-old girl from pre-Columbian times who dreams of becoming a powerful princess.

After learning of an ancient prophecy involving a Celestial Princess who will arrive to protect her people, she pretends to be such a being. Much to her surprise, everyone believes her story but what she doesn’t know is that she will be asked to embark on a dangerous mission to save civilization. With the voices of Pedro Armendariz Jr, Alex Lora and Maya Zapata.

No-Do

Música en Espera THURS / 3/11 / 7:30 PM / S3 SUN / 3/14 / 8:30 PM / S1 SUN / 3/21 / 6:30 PM / S1

Dir. Hernán A. Golfrid (2009, 106 min., Argentina, Spanish w/ English subtitles) Ezequiel is a composer with writer’s block who must come up with a tune for a job soon, or his mortgage will go unpaid. While on hold with the bank, he is inspired by the fleeting sounds of a “muzak” tune.

Desperate to hear it again he goes to the bank and meets Paola, a very pregnant and very single bank employee. Paola agrees to help Ezekiel find the “music on hold” he is searching for, as long as he is willing to help her with a problem of her own. This Argentine box office smash is a well-acted and intelligent must for all lovers of the romantic comedy genre. Starring Norma Aleandro and Diego Peretti.

FRI / 3/12 / 10 PM / S7 THURS / 3/18 / 9:45 PM / S3

Dir. Elio Quiroga (2009, 120 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Francesca is a pediatrician who suffers from postpartum depression.

Following the advice of friend and psychiatrist Jean, Francesca and her husband Pedro move out of the city to a new home. Unfortunately, the new house turns out not to be the respite they hoped.

Francesca soon begins to see furtive figures and ghostly shadows everywhere. Jean and Pedro are convinced that her visions are manifestations of her illness but she believes that the house is possessed. This stylish horror film is based on a true story. Starring Ana Torrent (“The Other Boleyn Girl”).

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NARRATIVE FEATURES Norteado

Paradas Continuas SUN / 3/14 / 3 PM / S1 TUES / 3/16 / 8:30 PM / S1 WED / 3/17 / 10:15 PM / S6

Dir. Rigoberto Pérezcano (2009, 93 min., Mexico/Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Andres, a farmer from the Mexican state of Oaxaca is determined to gain entry into the United States in search of a better life. When he reaches the border, he befriends Cata and Ela, two women who run a convenience store in Tijuana, who themselves have been abandoned by their husbands for the lure of El Norte. After repeated failed attempts to get to “the other side,” he turns to his new friends for support and they become his de-facto family. Nominated for 10 Ariel Awards.

SAT / 3/13 / 6 PM / S6 SUN / 3/14 / 10:30 PM / S1 SAT / 3/20 / 10 PM / S7

Dir. Gustavo Loza (2009, 110 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ NO subtitles) Perico and Emilio are both teenagers with girlfriends and high-testosterone levels, who are in desperate need of some privacy. But they don’t know where to go. They both live with their parents, and the girls would never go to the so-called “love motels.” A solution comes in the form of an old VW van, which proves so useful that the friends decide to start a lucrative new business. From SDLFF 2000 special guest Gustavo Loza (“Al Otro Lado”).

Paraiso

Os Normais 2 SAT / 3/13 / 8:30 PM / S1 THURS / 3/18 / 10:15 PM / S6 SUN / 3/21 / 6 PM / S6

Dir. José Alvarenga Jr. (2009, 75 min., Brazil, Portuguese w/ English Subtitles) In Rio de Janeiro, Vani and Rui have been together for many years.

But now they’ve reached a crisis of boredom with their sex life so they decide to spice up the relationship by engaging in one of their wildest fantasies: a “ménage à trois.” In their wanderings through Rio’s uninhibited nightlife the couple searches for a willing partner, meeting a karaoke singer, a martial-arts champion, a French aristocrat, and a “lady of the evening.” These exotic encounters lead to hilarious adventures. Starring Fernanda Torres and Luis Fernando Guimarães.

Oveja Negra

MON / 3/15 / 10:30 PM / S1 FRI / 3/19 / 7:30 PM / S3 SUN / 3/21 / 3 PM / S1

Dir. Leon Ichaso (2009, 106 min., USA, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) The dull life of Miami radio personality, Remigio Gallegos, abruptly changes after he answers the phone to find out his son, whom he’s never met, is waiting for him at an immigration office. Wearing a silver cross that belonged to Remigio’s mother, the young man brings a haunting past. Directed by Leon Ichaso (“El Cantante”), “Paraiso” explores generational and class divides within the Cuban exile community of South Florida. Part thriller, part drama, part existential romance, the film explodes with heart, color, music and a desperate tale.

Piñero THURS / 3/11 / 6 PM / S6 SAT / 3/13 / 10:30 PM / S1

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Dir. Humberto Hinojosa Ozcáriz (2009, 85 min., Mexico, Spanish w/English Subtitles) José and Kumbia are two young men who work at a ranch herding sheep. Treated harshly by Don Leandro, the ranch’s owner, they hatch a plan to steal some of the sheep and sell them at the Mexican-American border. However, Don Leandro’s son, Jeronimo, is always at their heels and will do anything to make things difficult for them. Just when they’re about to put the plan into effect, a girl named María comes between the two friends and their scheme. Winner of the FIPRESCI (International Federation of Film Critics) Award at the Guadalajara Film Festival.

SAT / 3/20 / 3:30 PM / S6

Dir. Leon Ichaso (2001, 103 min., U.S.A., English) “Piñero” tells the story of the explosive life of a Latino icon, the poetplaywright-actor Miguel Piñero, whose urban poetry is recognized as a pre-cursor to rap and hip-hop. After doing time in hard-core Sing-Sing for petty thefts and drug dealing, Piñero’s prison experiences developed into the 1974 Tony-nominated play Short Eyes. The resulting notoriety and fame was too much for the Latino bad-boy genius who retreated to the darker corners of New York City. Screened in honor of director Leon Ichaso, the recipient of a special Tribute at this year’s SDLFF.

El Regalo de la Pachamama

The Station of the Forgotten SAT / 3/13 / 2:30 PM / S3 MON / 3/15 / 10 PM / S7 THURS / 3/18 / 8:30 PM / S1

SAT / 3/13 / 1 PM / S6 SUN / 3/14 / 10:15 PM / S6 SUN / 3/21 / 8:30 PM / S1

Dir. Toshifumi Matsushita (2009, 102 min., Bolivia/Japan, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Director Toshifumi Matsushita’s debut feature film is a spiritual tale set in Bolivia about a 13-year-old colchani who embarks on his first caravan with his father. Leaving the arresting scenery of the salt lake where they live, they travel on the backs of llamas for months in order to trade the precious mineral for other Andean products. Along the way, the boy falls in love, learns about other indigenous cultures, sees the ugly side of civilization and understands how deeply connected he is to the land.

Dir. Christian Molina and Sandra Serna 2009, 90 min., Spain, Catalan w/ English Subtitles)

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In this affecting film from Spain, Domingo, a retired sailor, and Pau, a troubled youth who has been sentenced to community service, end up “serving time” in the retirement home in which Domingo lives. These two tender souls develop an unlikely friendship that will give new meaning to their seemingly hopeless lives. From noted Catalan filmmaker Christian Molina and first-time filmmaker Sandra Serna.

El Traspatio WED / 3/17 / 7 PM / S7 FRI / 3/19 / 10 PM / S7

Regresa THURS / 3/11 / 7 PM / S7 SAT / 3/13 / 4 PM / S7

Dir. Carlos Carerra (2009, 122 min., Mexico/USA, English w/ Spanish Subtitles)

“El Traspatio” is a fictional account of the atrocities that continue to occur in Ciudad Juárez. Police Captain Blanca Bravo is sent to CiuDir. Alejandro González Padilla dad Juárez from Mexico City to investigate a series of unexplained (2009, 93 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) murders on young women. Most of the victims are low-paid laborers who have been drawn to Ciudad Juárez by the possibility of work at When her husband Ernesto throws himself into work and refuses to the American-owned factories that sprang up after the NAFTA agreestart a family, Maria begins to think he is having an affair and turns to hypnosis to help her understand her relationship. But when the therapist ment went into effect. Blanca discovers an incompetent and complicit police force, an indifferent local population, and a seedy underworld. ends the session, she doesn’t come back as herself. Instead, Maria is convinced she is a Basque princess engaged to a prince from the 15th Will she be able to stop the savagery? Mexico’s official submission to the 2010 Oscars, starring Ana de la Reguera and Jimmy Smits. century. Sarring Jaime Camil and Blanca Soto.

Los Viajes del Viento Solo Quiero Caminar FRI / 3/12 / 10:15 PM / S6 TUES / 3/16 / 10:15 PM /S6 SUN / 3/21 / 7 PM / S7

MON / 3/15 / 10:15 PM / S6 FRI / 3/19 / 6 PM / S6 SUN / 3/21 / 8 PM / S6

Dir. Ciro Guerra (2009, 117 min., Colombia, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Dir. Agustin Diaz Yanes (2009. 129 min., Spain / Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) In this stylish crime caper, Gloria, Aurora, Ana, and Paloma - a fearless band of female bank robbers - stage an elaborate job on the local Russian mob, but an injured Aurora gets left behind and nabbed by the police. While Aurora does her time, the three other women lie low.

Ana reluctantly accepts Mexican crime boss Felix’s marriage offer, and her life soon becomes a nightmare. Motivated by revenge, she begins to plot a dangerous strike that will require the help of her old friends.

Starring Diego Luna, Adriana Gil, and Victoria Abril.

Ignacio Carrillo is a vallenato singer who, after his wife’s sudden death, decides to find his old teacher to return his accordion, which he thinks is cursed. Shot in 84 locations across Colombia, the film takes us on a journey of personal discovery amidst a backdrop of rich, cultural traditions. During his trip, Ignacio is joined by Fermín, a teenage admirer who wishes to become a singer like him. Jaded, Ignacio tries to dissuade the kid but he may have to accept what destiny has in store for both of them. Official Selection of the 2009 Cannes, San Sebastian, and Toronto Film Festivals, and Colombia’s official submission to the 2010 Oscars.

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NARRATIVE FEATURES

NARRATIVE FEATURES Viernes de Animas

La Virgen Negra MON / 3/15 / 9:45 PM / S3 FRI / 3/19 / 7 PM / S7 SUN / 3/21 / 10 PM / S7

Dir. Raúl P. Gámez (2008, 99 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Andy and Hugo are childhood friends. After an eerie incident in a bar, Andy is forced to disclose a secret: he has the ability to predict the future and communicate with the dead. His powers are confirmed when Andy visits the home of Hugo’s mother, which appears to be possessed by evil forces. His visions subsequently trigger a series of mysterious events that will test their bond and trust in each other.

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MON / 3/15 / 7:30 PM / S3 THURS / 3/18 / 10:30 PM / S1 FRI / 3/19 / 4 PM / S7

Dir. Ignacio Castillo Cottin (2008, 120 min., Venezuela, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) When a traditional sculpture of the Virgin Mary is replaced by a “Black Virgin” at the church of a small Venezuelan fishing village, strange things begin to happen. The sun stops setting, crime becomes non-existent, the sick are miraculously cured, and life is magically transformed for the town’s citizens. A few months later, another change occurs, but this time magic is not on their side. Starring Carmen Maura and Angelica Aragón.

NARRATIVE FEATURES

NARRATIVE FEATURES

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DOCUMENTARY FEATURES

DOCUMENTARY FEATURES Beauty of the Fight

2501 Migrants: A Journey

SUN / 3/14 / 7:30PM / S3

SUN / 3/14 / 6:30PM / S1

Dir. Yolanda Cruz (2009, 57 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) When artist Alejandro Santiago returned to Mexico after living in France for several years, he discovered that his home town of Teococuilco was a virtual “ghost town.” Like many others in the area, it had been abandoned by thousands of migrants who travel north in search of work. Inspired by this, he decided to embark on an ambitious project - to repopulate the town with 2,501 life-size ceramic figures representing each of the absent villagers.

Dir. John Urbano (2009, 69 min., USA/Panama, English & Spanish w/ Subtitles) Photographer and filmmaker John Urbano explores, with intimate and devastating imagery, two historic barrios of Panama: Barraza and El Chorrillo, which suffered heavy losses when the U.S. invaded in 1989 to capture General Manuel Noriega. With the barrios facing extinction due to outside private and commercial developments, Urbano renders for posterity the residents’ daily struggle as well as their dignity, joy, and hope for the future.

Al Mas Alla

Chevolution SUN / 3/21 / 5:00PM / S3

SUN / 3/14 / 6:30PM / S1

Dir. Lourdes Portillo (2009, 43 min., USA, English and Spanish w/ Subtitles)

Dir. Dir. Luis López and Trisha Ziff (2008, 86 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles)

In this docu-fiction hybrid, veteran filmmaker Lourdes Portillo (“Señorita Extraviada”) investigates the story of three morally corrupt fishermen who find a shipment of drugs on the shore and sell it to the local police. The film combines fictional elements (such as a documentary film crew led by a narcissistic director played by Ofelia Medina) and real interviews to show a compelling portrait of a nation losing its moral center as a result of economic pressures.

How did the iconic image of Che Guevarra end up on beer bottles and bikinis? “Chevolution” tells the story of how one photo became a symbol of leftist and disenfranchised groups across the globe, generations of subsequent protesters, and ultimately marketing gurus. Filmmakers Luis López and Trisha Ziffs thoughtful and ironic documentary investigates how the enduring symbol of Cuba’s revolution skyrocketed to fame and was ultimately devoured by its own worst enemy: Capitalism. With appearances by Antonio Banderas and Gael Garcia Bernal.

As Long As I Remember: American Veteranos

La Clave

THURS / 3/18 / 6:00PM / S6

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SUN / 3/14 / 1:30PM / S7

Dir. Laura Varela (2009, 56 min., USA, English

Dir. Mariella Sosa (2008, 80 min., Puerto Rico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles)

Directed by San Antonio filmmaker Laura Varela, “As Long As I Remember” examines the personal toll and legacy of the Vietnam War on three South Texas artists: visual artist Juan Farias, author Michael Rodriguez and poet/performance artist Eduardo Garza.

The film takes us on a personal journey of these veterans’ compelling lives -- growing up in the Mexican-American community, their military service in Vietnam, their lives after the war -- and examines the role art plays in the sorting of sometimes painful memories.

This fascinating documentary explores the similarities between two of Latin music’s most popular genres: salsa and reggaeton.

Featuring a veritable who’s who of Puerto Rican music stars such as Willie Colón, Ismael Miranda, Tego Calderón and Julio Voltio, the film traces the evolution of these two styles to their African roots and highlights the importance of the “clave,” a five-note, tworhythm pattern, which is the backbone of all Afro-Cuban music.

Dzi Croquettes

El Informe Toledo SAT / 3/13/ 5:00PM / S3 SUN /3/14 / 10:00PM / S7

SUN / 3/14/ 5:00PM / S3

Directed by Raphael Alvarez and Tatiana Issa (2009, 110 min., Brazil, Portuguese w/ English Subtitles)

Dir. Albino Alvarez (2009, 87 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles)

This irreverent documentary by Raphael Alvarez and Tatiana Issa is an examination of the formation and influence of the all-male Cabaret group Dzi Croquettes. Banned under Brazil’s harsh military dictatorship of the 1970s, Dzi Croquettes performances openly mocked the regime, and challenged traditional social concepts of homosexuality and personal freedom, achieving global influence in the theater and art world.

Inspired by Franz Kafka’s “Report For an Academy,” renowned Mexican painter Francisco Toledo made fifteen famous drawings which provide the narrative thread of this insightful cinematic portrait. The paintings are a surreal combination of his self-portrait and Kafka’s protagonist, a red monkey who metamorphosizes into a middle-class European man. The film similarly combines art and history to trace the evolution of Toledo as a crusader for social justice and cultural preservation.

El General

Immigrant Nation! A Human Right Struggle of the New Millennium

DOCUMENTARY FEATURES

DOCUMENTARY FEATURES

SAT / 3/20 / 5:00PM / S3 TUES / 3/16/ 6:00PM / S6

Dir. Natalia Almada (2009, 83 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Filmmaker Natalia Almada is the great-granddaughter of Mexican president Plutarco Elias Calles (1924-1928), one of Mexico’s most controversial revolutionary figures. Accused of having been a “dictator”, “iron man” and “nun-burner,” while also considered by some to be the “father of modern Mexico,” “El General” is a portrait of a family and a country under the shadow of the past. Almada goes on a personal journey to reconcile her family’s legacy with her own progressive ideology. Winner of Best Documentary Director at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival.

Imaginadores

Directed by Esau Meléndez (2009, 105 min., U.S.A., in Englsh & Spanish w/ Subtitles) “Immigrant Nation” interweaves the stories of individuals, organizations, activists, and community leaders united by a passion and concern for justice. Highlighting the story of Elvira Arellano, a single mother from Chicago who fought her own deportation, the film underscores the opposition to the controversial HR4437 immigration bill, as well as the ongoing struggle for comprehensive immigration reform.

Mi Vida Con Carlos MON / 3/15 / 6:00PM / S6

Directed by Daniela Fiore (2008, 83 min., Argentina, in Spanish w/ English Subtitles) “Imaginadores” is the first documentary ever produced to explore the history of comic books in Argentina and their incredible appeal.

Artfully constructed, the film weaves insightful interviews with some of the country’s most popular illustrators with actual animated vignettes of their work to reveal the limitless possibilities of the fantasy genre, often referred to as the “ninth art.” A must for comic book fans or anyone interested in the creative process.

SAT / 3/20 / 6:00PM / S6

Dir. Germán Berger-Hertz (2009, 83 min., Chile/Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) German Berger-Hertz’s second feature film (gorgeously shot on 35mm) is the journey of a son trying to learn the truth father, who was killed in 1973 in Pinochet’s Chile. Personal, poetic, and often suspenseful, the film chronicles the events that brought Pinochet to power and the suffering that his family endured as a result. BergerHertz has created a powerful cinematic document that reveals not only the horrors of his country’s past but also his own.

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DOCUMENTARY FEATURES

DOCUMENTARY FEATURES Titón, de La Havana a Guantanamera

Sons of Cuba SUN / 3/21/ 1:00PM / S6

Dir. Andrew Lang (2009, 88 min., Cuba, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) The Havana Boxing Academy is a Cuban boarding school that takes 9 year-old boys and turns them into the best boxers in the world. “Sons of Cuba” follows the stories of three young hopefuls through eight dramatic months of training as they prepare for the biggest event of their lives: Cuba’s National Boxing Championship for Under-12’s. But during the season, crisis strikes: Fidel Castro is taken ill, and some of Cuba’s Olympic boxing champions defect to the USA, leaving the country at a crossroads, and the boys contemplating a changing world.

Stages SUN / 3/21 / 3:30PM / S6

Dir. Meerkat Media Collective (2009, 79 min., USA, English) In New York City’s changing Lower East Side, a group of older Puerto Rican women and inner-city youth come together to create an original play out of the stories of their lives. Weaving together themes of immigration, evolution, aging and coming of age, “Stages” offers an intimate portrait of an unlikely ensemble, transformed by the liberating power of their own stories. A rare feat in non-fiction filmmaking, the film was directed by twelve members of New York City’s Meerkat Media Collective.

The Tijuana Project SAT / 3/13 / 3:30PM / S6

Dir. John Sheedy (2009, 61 min., USA,, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) This compelling film turns an unflinching eye on the people who pick through the trash at the Tijuana garbage dump to survive- a community that Mother Teresa once described as “one of the world’s most destitute.” The story follows the lives of six children who, despite their circumstances, manage to thrive thanks to education, friendship, and family.

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SUN / 3/14/ 3:30PM / S6

Dir. Mirtha Ibarra (2009, 93 min., Cuba/Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Tomás Gutiérrez Alea is considered one of Cuba’s most influential filmmakers. The director of “Memorias de Subdesarrollo” and “Fresa y Chocolate,” he made over 20 features, documentaries, and shorts throughout his career, many of which are bold critiques of the social, economic, and political realities of his country after the revolution. In this love letter to “Titón,” his widow Mirtha Ibarra (an accomplished Cuban actress in her own right) chronicles, from her unique vantage point, his personal life as well as the vision and skill that led him to become one of the foremost figures of what is now known as the New Latin American Cinema.

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SHORT FILM PROGRAMS

SHORT FILM PROGRAMS Cine’mation

Borders on Film

Six Short Films Capturing Border Realities – 105 min.

FRI / 3/12 / 6:30PM / S1

TUE / 3/16 / 6:30PM / S1

Fair Lawn Dir. Era Saydam (2009, 14 min., USA, English and Spanish w/ Subtitles) A young Guatemalan immigrant in USA, José Aviles is about to become a father. He meets a friendly contractor in Fair Lawn, New Jersey and begins his workday with big dreams.

Tijuaneros Dir. Rory Kennedy (2009, 20 min., Mexico/USA, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) An aspiring photographer must decide between his camera and a gun.

The Fence Dir. Rory Kennedy (2009, 35 min, USA, English) In October 2006, the United States government decided to build a 700-mile fence along its Mexican border. Three years and 3.1 billion dollars later, award-winning director Rory Kennedy investigates the impact of the project, revealing how its stated goals - containing illegal immigration, cracking down on drug trafficking, and protecting America from terrorists - have given way to unforeseen consequences.

The Second Choice Dir. Alberto Belli (2009, 8 min., Mexico/USA, Spanish with English Subtitles) An immigrant single mother is facing eviction. Her son starts feeling the pressure and gets expelled from school after stealing a book they couldn’t afford. She tries to teach him right from wrong but sometimes life has a way of leading people astray.

Southbound Dir. Tim Disney (2009, 12 min., USA, No Dialogue) Gardeners in Los Angeles use their leaf blowers in surprising and magical ways.

Metropolis Ferry Dir. Juan Gautier (2009, 16 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) On his way back to Spain from Morocco, David and his friends witness an incident at the border. Outraged, he decides to get involved.

FILMS ARE INTENDED FOR MATURE AUDIENCES UNLESS NOTED IN PROGRAMS

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Short Animation Films from around the Globe - 107 min.

Jaulas Dir. Juan José Medina (2009, 10 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) A hostile environment is difficult to overcome for two misfits; a cycle of abuse and exploitation in the midst of desolation.

Cabaret Kadne Dir. Marc Riba (2008, 5 min., Spain, No Dialogue) Otto and Lola, two cabaret artists, fill their lives with their passion: acting.

Kuri Dir. Manuel Sirgo González (2008, 7 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) An lonely, elderly lady rescues a stray dog and begins to treat it like a child. Intent on proving he’s not human, the dog starts to show his more primal side.

Like Crude Oil Dir. Daniel Pardo (2009, 4 min., Spain, English w/ Spanish Subtitles) A world enslaved by petroleum. The disappearance of crude oil.

Chaos, anarchy, corruption... and one man who knows too much.

O Pintor de Ceos Dir. Jorge Marais Valle (2008, 25 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) A crazy painter and his faithful assistant try to find a solution against perpetual storms.

Martina Dir. Mariana Gutiérrez (2009, 10 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Martina searches for a magic sphere that will make her whole but must realize that it lies within herself.

El Armadillo Fronterizo Dir. Miguel Anaya Borja (2009, 8 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) An ingenious armadillo leaves his wife and his rapidly multiplying family at home and heads out in search of food, but finds trouble instead.

Rascal’s Street Dir. Marcos Valin, Maria Monescillo, David Priego (2009, 3 min., Spain, No Dialogue) London, 1812. Mr. Webnicker is late to an important appointment.

On his way, he meets a street musician who distracts him while his accomplice tries to rob him.

Inexoravel Dir. Juliano Coacci (2009, 3 min., Brazil, No Dialogue) Concrete. Everything is concrete. But seeds can crack it.

SHORT FILM PROGRAMS

Cine’mation – Nickelodeon Nick Family Fun Day - Nick Jr. Screenings - 80 min.

SHORT FILM PROGRAMS

Suertes, Humores, y Pequeñas Historias (2009, 30 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) IMCINE (Mexican Institute of Film) commissioned this series of 26 animated shorts to celebrate 200 years of Mexican independence and the 100-year anniversary of the revolution.

SUN / 3/14 / 11:00AM / S7

Dora the Explorer “Swiper, the Explorer” Swiper helps Dora and Boots bring a lost baby Fox back home.

Ni Hao, Kai-Lan “Things Fall Apart” Kai-lan plans a party for Yeye, but when everything she plans goes wrong, she gets frustrated and starts to cry. Rintoo, Tolee and Hoho show Kai-lan how to use laughter to feel better and then they get everything ready for the big party. The episode introduces preschoolers to the phrase “I love” (Wo ai) in Chinese.

Team Umizoomi “The Elephant Sprinkler” Team Umizoomi needs to help their friend Kayla when the elephant water sprinkler stops working at the Umi City water playground. Bot’s “How Does It Work” segment explains how water gets into Umi City, and the team must use their mighty math skills to measure the depth of the lake, identify the correct shapes to build a submarine and determine which way the submarine needs to travel to fix the problem.

The Fresh Beat Band “Hip Hop Hoedown” The Fresh Beats are excited to play country music and square dance at the hoedown. Kiki plays the fiddle, Shout plays the accordion, Marina sticks with the drums, but Twist doesn’t know what to play since his mix tables don’t fit in with the country style music. When the team realizes they need a square dance caller to call out the dance moves, Twist is able to put his rap skills to use and realizes the only instrument he’s needed along was his voice. The episode aims to help preschoolers recognize their strengths while introducing country music.

Nickelodeon Hispanic Heritage Month shorts Nickelodeon’s Hispanic Heritage Month shorts showcase real-life role models and their careers. The shorts feature animated versions of swimmer Darra Torres, winner of 12 Olympic medals; award-winning musician Tito Puente, known as the King (El Rey) of Mambo music; Ellen Ochoa, the first female Hispanic astronaut; and Narcis Monturiol, inventor of the Ictineo, the first submarine with an engine. The four shorts were composed by Emmy and Grammy award-winner Fernando Rivas, produced by Rafael Esquer & Alfalfa Studios and narrated by Arianna Aroyo.

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SHORT FILM PROGRAMS

SHORT FILM PROGRAMS Cine Experimental An exciting celebration of experimental shorts – 114 min.

THU / 3/18 / 6:30PM / S1 SAT / 3/20 / 3:00PM / S1

Naila Dir. Alex Arguelles (2009, 3 min., Mexico, No Dialogue) An experimental mix of animation and live action.

Notes on the Other Dir. Sergio Oksman (2008, 13 min., Spain/USA, English w/ Spanish Subtitles) Every summer, a crowd of Ernest Hemingway look-alikes meet in Key West, Florida. One day in 1924, the real Ernest Hemingway also wanted to be someone else.

Marisa Dir. Nacho Vigalondo (2009, 4 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) All women are Marisa, but Marisa is just one woman.

Cordao Verde Dir. Hiroatsu Suzuki and Rossana Torres (2009, 33 min., Portugal, Portuguese w/ English Subtitles) Part poem and part documentary that observes farmers in the greenbelt of Portugal as they work and rejoice off the land’s riches.

Palimpsesto Dir. Arian Sánchez ovisa (2009, 13 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) A visual essay that explores the student movement of ‘68 and how its significance has been re-interpreted over time.

Ser Hermano Dir. Fernando Pinheiro (2009, 11 min., Brazil, English) An intense, visual experience that encourages the viewer to reflect and raise questions.

La Historia de Siempre Dir. José Luis Montesinos (2009, 12 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) A man does everything in his power to get his wife back and put an end to his marital crisis.

Martina y Luna Dir. Javier Loarte (2009, 12 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Trapped inside her father’s bakery, Martina learns to dream again.

El Milagro Dir. Diego Tonorio Hernández (2009, 5 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) When a priest refuses to perform blessings for money, a sinister profiteer finds another way to make money off him.

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Cine Gay Short films depicting Gay life around the world – 109 min.

Como Marilyn Si Hay Dos Dir. Olivia Portillo (2009, 5 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Beauty is a way of life for the actor Yver Sorrod.

Pasajero Dir. Miguel Gabaldón (2009, 11 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) With the city of Madrid as backdrop, Arturo and Manuel get reacquainted after many years of not seeing each other.

El Abuelo Dir. Dino Dinco (2008, 3 min., USA, English) This poetic film finds Joe, a tattooed “homeboy” ruminating about ironing and his first love.

Holy Water Dir. Tatiana Lamela Rabell (2009, 11 min., USA/Puerto Rico, Spanish w/ Subtitles) Katerina dares to try to figure out what to do with her hormones, and they take her precisely where she never thought she’d go.

Breaking Borders: Cross-Dressers & Drag Queens of El Paso, TX Dir. Diana Cordova (2009, 13 min., USA, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Every Thursday night at a local taco shop in El Paso, Manuel and his friends put on a show. ¿M, Nunca Seré Nadie?

Dir. Jerónimo de los Santos (2009, 15 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Alex, an underground, homosexual screenwriter in his 30’s, is bored - the ultimate sin for someone as creative as he is.

Professor Godoy Dir. Gui Ashcar (2009, 14 min., Brazil, Portuguese w/ English Subtitles) Stubborn and severe, Godoy lives a dull life, but something is about to change.

Back to Life Dir. Desi del Valle (2009, 12 min., USA, English) Following the death of her girlfriend, Trista rests her head on straight gal-pal Monica, which evolves into something more.

Dish Dir. Brian Harris Krinsky (2009, 15 min., USA, English) Emo kids Israel and Louie walk around their East Los Angeles neighborhood dishing and “sexting” about their high-school classmates.

SHORT FILM PROGRAMS Cine Mujer II A wonderful collection of short fims by women or about the experience of women – 109 min.

SUN / 3/21 / 12:30PM / S1

Cine Mujer

A wonderful collection of short fims by women or about the experience of women – 116 min.

SAT / 3/13 / 12:30PM / S1

5 Recuerdos Dir. Oriana Alcaine and Alejandra Marquez (2009, 12 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Irma walks up and down the aisles of a supermarket repeating a list of ingredients to herself. She can remember the first four but keeps forgetting the fifth. To retrieve her lost memory, Irma embarks on a journey to the deepest part of her consciousness.

Gordita Dir. Debby Wolfe (2009, 11 min., USA, English w/ Spanish Subtitles) A plus-size Latina regains her confidence with the help of a cassette tape she recorded back in 1994 when she was a sassy, booty-shakin’ teen.

Buen Viaje Dir. Irene Zoe Alameda (2008, 15 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) The wife of a Spanish diplomat finds a lost immigrant kid on the street.

Even though she has to rush to the airport to go on an official trip, she decides to help him.

Lágrimas de Café Dir. Claudia Mercado (2009, 11 min., USA) An artist’s daily caffeine fix transports her to the past where she relives memories of her grandmother.

Whales of Gold Dir. Lucia Duncan (2009, 38 min., USA, English) Every winter, tourists descend upon a remote fishing village in Baja California to see the gray whales. 12 year-old Antonio negotiates between conflicting points of view on the changes that his community has experienced as a result of tourism and conservation.

In the Name of Freedom Dir. Isabel Cueva (2009, 15 min., USA, English) A female American soldier is held captive but another prisoner changes her life forever.

SHORT FILM PROGRAMS

Cara O Cruz Dir. Jacobo Echeverria (2008, 11 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) A day in the lives of two teenagers from the outskirts of Madrid that, to escape the routine, walk the neighborhood, risking on a toss who makes the next prank.

La Sombra del Tiempo Dir. Teddy Barouh (2009, 10 min., Cuba, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) A woman is haunted by a horrible experience she had when she was 10, but must reveal her secret to her lover if the relationship is to survive.

Cecilia Dir. Emily Reese (2009, 11 min., USA, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) An exploration of sexual identity within the boundaries of a culture in crisis.

Lucrecia Dir. Melanie Delloye (2009, 10 min., USA, English) Lucrecia, a moody teenager, reluctantly goes with her mother to help her clean a beautiful house in the Hamptons. A bit of cleaning reveals what is hiding under the surface.

Esperando Mujeres Dir. Estephan Wagner (2008, 34 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) In the remote Spanish village of Riofrio, almost all of the women have left. The village men, desperately seeking female companionship, organize a busload of single women from Madrid with the hope of changing their fortunes in love. But having never learned to deal with women besides their mothers and some motorway prostitutes, the event goes terribly wrong.

El Paraiso de Lili Dir. Melina León (2009, 17 min., Peru, Spanish w/ English Subtitles During the 1980’s in Peru, a precocious, rebellious schoolgirl discovers that the personal truly is political.

Absent Dir. Guillermo Asensio (2009, 10 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) A film about solitude, isolation, and the passage of time.

Red Mesa Dir. Ilana Lapid (2009, 17 min., USA, English) Set against the backdrop of the US/Mexico border, Lynn is caught in between her love for her grandfather and her forbidden romance with a Mexican laborer from a neighboring ranch. Lynn’s deception of both men leads to a terrible accident when the three of them are thrown together under a situation of great stress. Coming face to face with the painful realities of the border, Lynn realizes that meaningful relationships can only be based on honesty and the courage to stand up for what you believe.

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SHORT FILM PROGRAMS

SHORT FILM PROGRAMS Cortos Comedias Wonderful compilation of funny Latino short films - 117 min SAT / 3/20 / 12:30PM / S1 TUE / 3/16 / 10:30PM / S1

Ahate Pasa (2009, 12 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) This mock documentary traces the legacy of ducks - yes, ducks!

- throughout the history of cinema.

Amona Putz!

Dir. Telmo Esnal (2009, 9 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) What would the world be like without grandmothers? Who would look after the children while their parents are at work, go to dinner, to the cinema, or simply take a break?

Parking Dir. Jorge Molina (2009, 11 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) An executive goes to find his car but discovers someone else beat him to it.

Manual Práctico del Amigo Imaginario Dir. Ciro Altabas (2008, 19 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Fernando is a shy 27 year-old who gets a visit from Iraxte, an old classmate. This does not sit well with Captain Kilotón, Fernando’s imaginary friend who has stood by his side since he was a kid.

Iker Pelos Tesos Dir. Sandra García Velten (2009, 7 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Iker believes that everyone resembles an animal. He wishes he were a bear like his father, but he turned out just like his grandfather - a porcupine.

La Casa Invita Dir. Misael García (2009, 4 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) A young couple is enjoying their lunch when they become suspicious of a possible crime. Rampant speculation eventually leads to utter confusion.

Miracle Dir. Xochitl González (2009, 7 min., USA, English) Poor Javier! He pissed off his parents because he ditched was ditch class and made fun of a few cheerleaders. Now they want Javier to take medication to control his behavior.

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Doppelganger Dir. Oscar de Julián (2009, 20 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) When Oscar de Julián discovers that there is ANOTHER Oscar de Julián, their lives become inextricably intertwined - so much so that it will be difficult to understand one without the other.

Ursula & Spore 2.3 Dir. Carl W. Jones (2009, 2 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) There’s blood, there’s gore, there’s love... It’s the story of Ursula and Spore 2.3.

Mala Memoria Dir. Alfonso Esquivias (2009, 10 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Don Bartolo is a forgetful old man, who in his daily routine will not know if he is going or coming.

Cortos Españoles

A great mix of shorts from Spain – 113 min.

FRI / 3/19 / 6:30PM / S1

Di Me Que Yo Dir. Mateo Gil (2008, 15 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) HE and SHE meet up exactly after they break up with their partners.

El Contratiempo Dir. David Canovas (2008, 10 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Judith, an insurance sales agent, visits her client Gabriel to finalize a contract.

Les Sabatilles de Laura Dir. Oscar Bernacer Martínez (2009, 13 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Six year-old Laura is experiences life in her new home with her parents and older brother.

Negritud Dir. Patrick Bencomo (2008, 6 min., Spain, No Dialogue) The story of the persecution and oppression of people from Africa, which persists to this day.

Todo Exterior Dir. Mercedes Domínguez (2008, 3 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Two strangers find a romantic connection in the most unlikely of situations: while looking for an apartment.

Together Dir. Gigi Romero (2009, 10 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) A loving father hides his violent tendencies while working secretly as a professional thug. One day, determined to quiet down his noisy neighbor, he goes up to his apartment and discovers his worst nightmare.

SHORT FILM PROGRAMS

El Forjador de Historias Dir. José Gómez Gallego (1009, 15 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) “With my hammer, I forge the story of every life, of every person. The most wonderful moments... all of them have been conceived by me.”

El Hilo de Oro Dir. Diego Sanchidrián (2007, 19 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Sometimes, what bonds people together can be mystifying. But it is those very bonds that can help us survive.

Tosferina Dir. Alvaro Jiménez (2008, 9 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Spain 1949. Antonito, a 6 year-old child, has whooping cough. His father, relying on his ingenuity during hard times, devises a remedy involving the Wednesday morning express train.

Cortos Internacionales A collection of wonderful shorts from around the globe - 119 min.

Cuidadanos del Cielo Dir. Concepción Calvo Herrera (2009, 8 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) A visual poem dedicated to the architecture of Madrid.

Medellín, ¿Cómo Te Convierto En Un Objeto?

Dir. Patricia Montoya (2009, 10 min., USA, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) A lyrical symphony, love poem and farewell to the city of youth.

Laguna Negra Dir. Michael Watts (2009, 23 min., Peru, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) A film that explores the core values of a campesino community in Huancabamba (Peru) in light of the large-scale mining and urban development that has affected the area.

SHORT FILM PROGRAM

Maneki Neko Dir. Germán Talavera (2009, 13 min., Spain, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Theo, a former member of the Yakuza gang seeks redemption from his troubled past.

El Peleador Dir. García Aach (2009, 13 min., Cuba, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) A young boy works toward his goal of becoming a great boxer.

Buenas Intenciones Dir. Iván Lomeli (2008, 18 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Philip learns the hard way that people do not expect you to have good intentions.

Señal de Vida Dir. Diana Peñaloza Díaz (2008, 10 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Fate brings together a young pregnant woman and a lonely man. In each other, they see their worst fears and greatest hopes.

MON / 3/15 / 6:30PM / S1

Cállense, Cállense Dir. Rebecca Alemán and Victor Castejón (2009, 3 min., Venezuela, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Children scream to help their mother, a victim of domestic violence.

1/60 Dir. Jonathan Barg (2008, 11 min., Argentina, No Dialogue) Them. Material pleasures. Consumers. Miserable. Greedy.

Guiltless. This time, and this time only, they will be fodder for art.

Mañana Dir. Felipe Holguín (2009, 13 min., Colombia, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Ramón, a 10 year-old boy who lives in the Caribbean coast of Colombia, dreams of playing professional soccer but his mother is against it.

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SHORT FILM PROGRAMS

SHORT FILM PROGRAMS Cortos Mexicanos A celebration of the Best Mexican shorts - 102 min

SAT / 3 /14 / 12:30PM / S1

¿Tiene Usted Una Pluma?

Dir. Hector Montano (2009, 6 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) A young woman strikes up a conversation with a mysterious homeless man. The line between reality and fiction blurs when the man makes use of his pen.

De Fut Dir. José Ramón Chávez (2009, 22 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Marcelino is 11 years of age and determined to find out the truth behind his lack of interest in soccer, a sport his mother tries to involve him at all costs. But first, he must meet his father face to face, and not through the photograph his mothers shows him almost every day. According to her, his father was a renowned Mexican coach, but Marcelino does not believe her. Along with his friend Sergio, he begins a search for his true identity.

El Sótano Dir. Mario Guerrero (2009, 13 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Jacob is fascinated by fairy tales. Convinced that a witch appeared in the basement of his house, he tries to put an end to her but discovers that reality can be cruel.

Floppy Dir. Francisco Payo González (2008, 11 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) A magician with an addiction problem faces the dilemma of trading his best friend for one last fix.

La Espera Dir. Pablo Tamez (2008, 18 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) A man recalls a childhood promise, which makes him want to see an old girlfriend again.

Solitud Dir. Alicia Segovia (2009, 17 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) In this story, three characters explain how they cope with loneliness, which at times can be strangely charming.

Se Jodió La Navidad Dir. Carlos Alberto Cruz Lian (2009, 15 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) On Christmas Day, a young boxer who has just won the World Championship returns to his neighborhood in a shiny, new sports car, buys his mother a house, and finally gets the attention of the woman he always wanted. His ideal life suddenly crumbles when he realizes he’s been dealt a hard blow.

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Frontera Filmmakers A celebration of local short films from the San Diego/Tijuana Border Region - 88 min.

WED / 3 /17 / 6:30PM / S1

Atmosphere: An Aerial Haiku Dir. Neil Kendricks (2009, 4 min., USA., No Dialogue) A visual poem dedicated to the abstract beauty of aerial photography.

Waiting Dir. Patricia Rincón and Paula Zacharias (2008, 8 min., Argentina/USA, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) A young girl in Buenos Aires is alone and heartbroken. She would like to dance tango to make herself feel better, but doesn’t know how. However, she figures out another way.

The Colonel Dir. Mario García (2010, 10 min., USA, English) This adaptation of a poem by Carolyn Forché tells the story of an American human rights advocate who confronts a cruel Salvadoran colonel who committed atrocities during the civil war in El Salvador.

Letters Lost Dir. Dorian Iribe (2009, 15 min., USA, English) Andrew, a young boy, falls in love for the first time. The object of his affection is a young girl who frequents a nearby lake after school. While trying to figure out how to talk to her, he stumbles upon his parents’ old love letters and decides to write to her instead. The past and the present collide in this coming-of-age film.

All About Martha Dir. Antonio De Jesús Sánchez (2009, 15 min., USA, English) This journey through time explores the relationship between John, an elderly American widower, and Martha, his Latina caregiver.

When Martha is let go by John’s jealous daughter, he grows despondent. John’s doctor intercedes and tries to get Martha back in order to restore him back to health.

St. Jacques Dir. Giancario Ruíz (2009, 17 min., Mexico/USA, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) The story of a man and a woman trying to figure out which one is dead.

Mediocre Masterpiece Dir. Dexter Gareau (2009, 9 min., USA, English) A mediocre artist attempts to paint a masterpiece without letting his girlfriend’s aspirations stand in his way.

SHORT FILM PROGRAMS

Amazing collected works of shorts films made in the United States – 106 min.

A collection of films from talented young directors.

105 min.

THUR / 3 /11 / 6:30PM / S1

-

SAT / 3 /20 / 2:30PM / S3 THURS / 3 /11 / 10:15PM / S6

Below The Fold Dir. Roberto Gudino (2007, 20 min. USA, English) This documentary tells the story of how, in 1984, a group of young journalists battled institutional prejudice to forever change the newspaper industry, becoming the first Latinos to win the Pulitzer Prize - journalism’s most prestigious award.

News from Afar Dir. Shawna Baca (2009, 4 min, USA, English) A mother receives messages from far away places.

Adán Dir. Gabriel Long (2009, 32 min., USA, English) When Miguel Correos has to leave his home in Ecuador and travel to new York City to find his childhood friend Adán, the trip becomes a journey that will change him forever.

SHORT FILM PROGRAMS

Women In Film

Hecho en U.S.A.

Tierra Madre Dir. Dylan Verrechia (2009, 60 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Lesbian couple Rosalba and Aidee wish to have a child of their own.

Finding a man to father the child proves a difficult task, and one that will bring with it its own set of complications.

Roma Dir. Elisa Miller (2008, 26 min., Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) In “Roma,” a young woman migrating north, must stop in The Roma soap factory in order to clean herself up, evade authorities, and continue on her journey.

Ebony Goddess: Queen of Ile Aiye Dir. Carolina Moraes-Lui (2009, 20 min., Brazil, Portuguese w/ English Subtitles) This is the story of three young women competing for the title of Ebony Goddess, in the largest black city outside of Africa, Salvador Da bahia, Brazil.

The Groundskeeper Dir. Roberto Gudino (2008, 8 min., USA, English) A Latino groundskeeper connects to a University professor, but social norms and attitudes threaten to tear them apart.

Cleats Dir. Maria Agui Carter (2009, 8 min, USA, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Immigrant parents save money, one nickel at a time, for their son to attend Harvard.

Hermanos Dir. Maria Biber-Ferro (2009, 8 min, USA, English) Against both his brother’s and his gang’s wishes, Juan must choose between promises and the chance at a better life before the weight of the past buries him.

The Missing Pages Dir. Salvador Paniagua (2009, 13 min., USA, English) Rudy comes home after not seeing his father for three years and discovers a painful secret.

Little Village Dir. David Priego (2009, 13 min., USA, English) The streets of Little Village are about to change 14year-old Alonso’s life in ways he never could have imagined.

Youth Visions 2010 A collection of films from talented young directors. min.

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WED / 3 /17 / 6:00PM / S6

Bitter Memories Dir. Joshua Marston (2009, 14 min., USA, English) Rob is a young man who grows up watching his father abuse his mother.

Adventure Dir. Davita Gruber (2009, 7 min., USA, English) For years, young hobbits Madoc and Pelón have heard stories from their grandfathers about their adventures in the deep, dark forest.

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SHORT FILM PROGRAMS

SHORT FILM PROGRAMS Tenant’s Rights Dir. Teen Producers project (2009, USA, 10 min., English & Spanish w/ subtitles) The story of how substandard housing conditions affect the health and safety of one family.

A wonderful assortment of shorts to be screened prior to feature films!

SALTA! Environmental Health Coalition Dir. Adolfo Espinoza, Alan Lilienthal, Alex Obregón, Carlos Olmedo, James Warner, Freddy López, Jasmine Allen, Jose Hernández, Micah Fluhart, Katya Martin-Gullans (10 min.)

When their families begin to fall ill, women in the San Diego/tijuana area begin to question whether their environment may have something to do with it.

Solara Dir. Students: Rami Hamze, Monica Venegas, Lorena Luna, Linda Camacho, Edwin Bailon, Alex Lee, Gaby Sanchez, Ruth Chamu This short explores how an affordable housing community in Poway is doing their part to improve the environment.

Youth and Recession Dir. Jesus Andrew Molina, Brandon Gilbert, Dante Camberlen, Monique Castillo (4 min.)

Andrew Molina, a high school senior from Point Loma High school, talks about the recession and how it has affected youth culture.

La Profe: Educational Excellence Dir. Enrique Garcia and Johnny Garcia (5 min.)

City College professor Elva solinas talks about the educational system and her experience leading the way for educational reform.

Sister Margaret Dir. Christopher Quarles, Britt Gilbert, Lovely Winters, Christian Winters (4 min.)

Sister Margaret Castro talks about her experience working with Mother Teresa in India, working with lepers and discarded children.

From The Hands of our Ancestors Dir. Muna (3 min.)

A Crawford High School student remenisces about her native Somalia, and how food has helped to make San Diego home.

Danilo Goes To Joshua Tree Dir. Anais Hinojosa, Aura Oropeza Tellez, Noah Prestwich, Nicole Nelson-Campos, Samuel Romero (2009, 5 min. USA, English) A family vacation to Joshua Tree is anything but ideal for young Danilo.

I Was Here Dir. Woodrow white (2009, 5 min,USA, English) A humorous and insightful look at graffiti.

Margaret Garcia: Murals vs. Graffiti Dir. Albert Celis (2009, 5 min. USA, English) Artist Margaret Garcia discusses murals in the community.

Leo Limón: Life is Art Dir. Ashley Ruíz (2009, 5 min, USA, English) Leo Limón discusses his art of painting cats.

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Extra Shorts 2010

Worst Case Scenario Femme and Worse Case Scenario Butch Dir. Mary Guzmán (2009, 8 min. USA, English) Two short companion films with dating tips for today’s lesbian. To be screened prior to: Chica Busca Chica (p. 54) Princessa en La Torre Dir. Cristobal Juarez (2009, 10 min. Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) Rebecca is a successful designer who has spent most of her life pursuing success at the expense of her personal life. To be screened prior to: 2033 (p. 52) Unpunished Dir. Ramón Córdova (2009, 14 min. Mexico, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) When a man who desires a lavish lifestyle for himself and his family crosses paths with a simple man seeking only to impart basic life lessons to his grandson, a decision will be made that will destroy one family forever.

The Book of the Border Dir. Andrés Torres Vives (2009, 29 min, Mexico/USA, Spanish w/ English Subtitles) A seemingly normal day in the life of a father, mother, and daughter split by the U.S./ Mexican border, becomes the last one they will have as a family. To be screened prior to: The Tijuana Project (p. 66) Sons Of Guadalupe and Their Journey Home (Work-in-Progress, 10 min.)

Dir. Isaac Artenstein and Co-Producer Michael Ornelas This film, based on a book by Michael Ornelas, explores the reasons why a small agricultural town in California sent an astounding 92% of its age-eligible men to Vietnam by focusing on the cutural and economic realities they grew up with. To be screened prior to: As Long As I Remember: American Veteranos (p. 64) Almas Perdidas Dir. Julio de la Fuente (2008, 16 min., Spain, Spanish w/English Subtitles) Two young boys fall in love in the aftermath of the Spanish Civil War, before each going their own way. To be screened prior to: Contracorriente (p. 54)

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