Why Film Festivals are Important for the Mexican-American Film Community

For decades, film festivals have been a tremendously important part of the fabric of the film industry. They have been a crucial part in fostering innovation, community, and the discovery of diverse voices, providing a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work to a large audience. Many filmmakers get their start by showcasing their films throughout the festival circuit.

Film festivals can play an even more important role when it comes to promoting diversity. As we prepare for the 3rd Annual Mexican-American Film & Television Festival, we want to break down why we think that this Festival is such an important part in our mission of promoting Mexican-American films and filmmakers to change the distorted narrative in the media about our community. 

Showcasing new talent in an underrepresented minority

The reality of the film industry is that there are very few Mexican-American directors, writers, and actors. Latinos make up only 5.5% of theatrical roles, 1.1% of directors, and 1.1% of theatrical film writers. Compare that with the fact that latinos are 19% of the U.S. population (almost 70% of that being Mexican-American) and it’s clear there is severe underrepresentation. And these stories just need to be given a chance to be shown, because there is a strong market for them, as 1 in 4 movie ticket buyers are latino. 

A film festival like Mexican-American Film & Television Festival showcases new talent that have been given few opportunities elsewhere. Many filmmakers have gotten there 

Encourages community

The community building opportunities at Film Festivals are also tremendous. No one builds their dreams alone, especially in a collaborative business like Hollywood, so providing a platform for Mexican-American filmmakers to connect can help create a sense of unity within this community, something we desperately need. Filmmakers can meet other filmmakers to collaborate on projects with, share opportunities, and discuss experiences. 

Provide opportunities for filmmaker to meet film industries’ decision makers

The festival can also be a place where filmmakers build their network with decision makers in the film industry like producers, film executives, and possibly even distributors looking for talent. In the film industry, your network is your net worth so building your network is vital for your success. The Mexican-American Film & Television Festival is one of the best places to do this.

Exposes audiences to new types of stories

Another reason why MAFTF is so important is it can expose audiences to new types of stories that they may have not seen before. While Hollywood has historically portrayed Mexican-Americans very negatively, or not at all, these stories show our side. This may include films or documentaries that delve into lesser known aspects of Mexican-American history or films that explore what the new generations of Mexican-Americans are experiencing in America. These stories can bridge cultural gaps, encourage dialogue and understanding, and contribute to a more inclusive society.

Award opportunities

The awards distributed by the Mexican-American Film & Television Festival not only acknowledge excellence in storytelling, direction, cinematography, and performance but can also help increase the visibility of Mexican American talent. Awards can serve as validation within the industry, signaling to distributors, production companies, and audiences that the showcased films and television projects have achieved distinction and merit. Last year, we had important people in the film industry like Jesus Treviño, Dennis Leoni, and Enrique Castillo on our judging panel.

Learning opportunities

At our Festival, we also offer filmmakers learning opportunities through events like Q&A sessions with accomplished industry figures. These sessions provide a place for emerging filmmakers to engage with accomplished filmmakers. They can gain insights like the craft of filmmaking, challenges to expect when seeking distribution, and the strategies these accomplished filmmakers have used to navigate the industry. 

With these learning opportunities, we not only provide practical knowledge but we also hope to nurture a supportive environment that encourages aspiring filmmakers to hone their skills and learn how to navigate the complexities of the entertainment industry with guidance from those who have already successfully done it.

The Mexican-American Film and Television Festival

The Mexican-American Film and Television Festival & Awards mission is designed to provide Mexican-American/Chicano filmmakers, who are representatives of the 40 million Americans of Mexican descent, a venue to showcase, promote and celebrate their beautiful art. 

It is a place that gives movie goers the opportunity to view dozens of short films, films, documentaries, and television pilots, both in person and online. These are Mexican-American stories told by Mexican-Americans, therefore depicting these stories and culture away from the stereotypical Hollywood portrait. 

If you are a filmmaker wanting to showcase your film at the Mexican-American Film and Television Festival, there is still time! The application to submit your film closes on January 15th, 2024. Visit our website to see the submission requirements.