10 Mexican-American films to put on your watch list today

With the 2024 Mexican-American Film & Television Festival coming up in a few months, we’ll have the opportunity to watch many new stories from talented Mexican-American filmmakers. And while we often talk about the need for more Mexican-American stories in the media, today, we wanted to highlight the amazing stories that have ALREADY been made. Here are our recommendations for 10 of the best Mexican-American films you need to watch today!

Stand and Deliver

Year: 1988

Director: Ramón Menéndez

Cast: Edward James Olmos, Lou Diamond Phillips, Rosanna DeSoto, Andy García

Stand and Deliver is a riveting drama based on the true story of Jaime Escalante, a passionate math teacher who inspires a group of seemingly unmotivated, underprivileged latino students to learn calculus. Facing skepticism and adversity, Escalante's unwavering belief in his students and innovative teaching methods defy the odds, challenging expectations. This empowering film, directed by Ramón Menéndez, explores the triumph of education and the potential for greatness within every person. The film stars Edward James Olmos, a Mexican-American actor as Escalante. 

In 2011, Stand and Deliver was deemed "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant" by the United States Library of Congress and selected for preservation in the National Film Registry.

La Bamba

Year: 1987

Director: Luis Valdez

Cast: Esai Morales, Rosanna DeSoto, Elizabeth Peña, Joe Pantoliano, Lou Diamond Phillips

La Bamba is a vibrant biopic capturing the meteoric rise and tragic end of Ritchie Valens, a pioneer of Chicano rock music in the 1950s. Directed by Luis Valdez, this poignant film explores Valens' cultural identity, family life, and rise in the music industry. Fueled by powerful performances and a nostalgic soundtrack, La Bamba is a celebration of Valens' enduring legacy and influence in American music and Chicano history.

Zoot Suit

Year: 1981

Director: Luis Valdez

Cast: Daniel Valdez, Edward James Olmos

Zoot Suit, directed by Luis Valdez, is a captivating film adaptation of the groundbreaking Broadway play. Set against the backdrop of racially charged 1940s Los Angeles, the film follows the controversial Sleepy Lagoon murder trial, where a group of Mexican-American youths were wrongfully convicted of murder, which led to the Zoot Suit Riots in Los Angeles. Infused with a vibrant musical score, Zoot Suit explores themes of identity, discrimination, and resilience. In 2019, the film was deemed “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant” and selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress.

Selena

Year: 1997

Director: Gregory Nava

Cast: Jennifer Lopez, Edward James Olmos, Jon Seda, Constance Marie, Jacob Vargas, Lupe Ontiveros, Jackie Guerra

Selena is a heartfelt biopic chronicling the life of the beloved Tejano music sensation, Selena Quintanilla. Directed by Gregory Nava, the film traces Selena's journey from a young, aspiring artist to her triumphant rise to stardom, showcasing her talent, family bonds, and cultural impact. The film features a stellar performance by Jennifer Lopez, capturing Selena's spirit. The film's poignant narrative and vibrant musical sequences celebrate Selena's legacy, making it a compelling homage to the Queen of Tejano music.

Cesar Chavez

Year: 2014

Director: Diego Luna

Cast: Michael Peña, America Ferrera, Rosario Dawson, John Malkovich

Cesar Chavez, directed by Diego Luna, is a powerful biopic chronicling the life of the iconic labor leader and civil rights activist. Michael Peña delivers a compelling performance as Chavez, portraying his tireless efforts to organize and empower farm workers during the 1960s. The film explores Chavez's dedication to nonviolent protest, the challenges faced by agricultural laborers, and the formation of the United Farm Workers union. Cesar Chavez is a fantastic tribute to a visionary leader who fought for justice and equality.

Walkout

Year: 2006

Director: Edward James Olmos

Cast: Alexa Vega, Efren Ramirez, Michael Peña

Walkout, directed by Edward James Olmos, is a gripping drama inspired by true events during the 1968 East Los Angeles student walkouts. Frustrated by systemic injustice and discriminatory practices, high school students mobilize in a powerful protest for equal education rights. The film explores their courageous stand against oppression and the power of collective action. Walkout is a poignant reminder of the resilience and determination of youth in the face of adversity, making it a compelling and socially relevant film.

Flamin' Hot

Year: 2023

Director: Eva Longoria

Cast: Jesse Garcia, Annie Gonzalez, Dennis Haysbert, Tony Shalhoub, and Hunter Jones

This comedy film covers the remarkable journey of Richard Montañez, who rose the ranks at Frito Lay, beginning as a janitor and ending up as an executive and whose Mexican heritage inspired Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. With both comedic and dramatic moments, this film explores the themes of cultural pride and perseverance.

Real Women Have Curves

Year: 2002

Director: Patricia Cardoso

Cast: America Ferrera, Lupe Ontiveros, George Lopez

Real Women Have Curves is a poignant coming-of-age film directed by Patricia Cardoso. America Ferrera stars as Ana, a Mexican-American teenager torn between familial expectations and her own personal dreams. The film beautifully captures Ana's journey of self-discovery and empowerment as she pursues higher education. Real Women Have Curves celebrates body positivity and Mexican-American cultural identity, delivering a touching narrative that resonates with authenticity.

Million Miles Away

Year: 2023

Director: Alejandra Marquez Abella

Cast: Michael Peña and Garret Dillahunt

In A Million Miles Away, the life of the first Mexican-American astronaut, José M. Hernández, is explored, from his beginnings as a farm worker to becoming an engineer and astronaut. The film explores themes like perseverance, family, and community in this inspiring film.

Under the Same Moon

Year: 2008

Director: Martin Campbell

Cast: Kate del Castillo, Adrián Alonso, and Eugenio Derbez

Under the Same Moon is a heartfelt drama that revolves around the emotional journey of a young Mexican boy named Carlitos, who embarks on a perilous and determined quest to reunite with his mother in the United States. Separated by immigration issues, the film follows Carlitos as he navigates the challenges of the border, encountering various characters who shape his perspective on life and love. Meanwhile, his mother, Rosario, faces her own struggles while working in Los Angeles. In this film, the director, Patricia Riggen, beautifully captures the sacrifices and hardships endured by those seeking a better life. 

The films in this list not only tell the stories of people in the Mexican-American community, but are universal stories with themes of identity, resilience, and love. From iconic classics to contemporary choices, each movie tells a unique story. Are you the next great Mexican-American filmmaker? Look over our scholarship, grant, and mentorship opportunities and sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on new opportunities.