Between March 14-24, 2024, the Media Arts Center San Diego is presenting the 31st edition of the San Diego Latino Film Festival (SDLFF) at the AMC Mission Valley 20, kicking off with a special sneak preview of the Sundance award-winning doc Frida, marking the directorial debut by editor Carla Gutiérrez.
Since its inception in 1994, SDLFF has evolved from a modest student film festival ("Cine Estudiantil") into a global phenomenon, celebrating Latino culture through the power of cinema. "We owe our success to the unwavering support of our community," says Maria Paula Lorgia, newly appointed Artistic Director of the San Diego Latino Film Festival. "As we embark on our 31st year, I am thrilled to bring my fresh vision and passion to this esteemed event. Here's to another year of sharing stories, challenging stereotypes, and inspiring audiences."
This year's festival promises a powerful showcase of Chicano Cinema, offering films that resonate deeply with San Diego and Southern California audiences. With a focused selection of 70 film programs, SDLFF aims to reconnect with young voices and contemporary perspectives, offering a diverse array of narratives that reflect the rich tapestry of the Latino experience.
In addition to celebrating Chicano Cinema, SDLFF is proud to host a diverse lineup of industry figures, both legendary and emerging, representing a breadth of talent and perspectives. Joining the festival as esteemed guests are actor/comedian/director Cheech Marin, border rock legend Javier Batiz and Sal Lopez, Oscar nominee Adriana Barraza, and Mexico's film and TV star Osvaldo Benavides. The festival is also welcoming new voices including authors/directors Itandehui Jansen, Natalia Bermudez, and Carla Gutierrez, known for her work on the acclaimed film Frida.
Some of this year’s highlights include About Thirty / Arturo a los 30 by Martín Shanly and Trenque Lauquen by Laura Citarella from Argentina, the acclaimed Mexican drama Tótem by Lila Avilés, the documentary feature A Thousand Pines by Sebastián Díaz and Noam Osband, the Colombian documentary Anhell69 by Theo Montoya, and the Dominican film Ramona by Victoria Villegas.
