The Mexican American Film & Television Festival (MAFTF) will hold its fifth annual edition on April 25–26 in Los Angeles, showcasing over 200 submissions across feature films, documentaries, short films, and vertical storytelling projects. The event serves as a platform for emerging and established filmmakers to connect with industry decision makers, with a theme this year of “Our Stories Must Be Told To Defy Adversity.”
Dr. Jose Luis Ruiz, president and festival director, emphasized the festival's role in helping the community heal and resist adversity through storytelling. The festival will present 12 competitive awards, including Best Feature Film, Best Short Film, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Documentary, and Best Screenplay for Short.
Special honors will recognize five individuals for their contributions to film and television. Legendary actor, writer, and director Enrique Castillo will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award for his decades-long career, with iconic roles in Blood In Blood Out and Weeds. Chicana actress and producer Annie Gonzalez, known for Gentefied and Flamin’ Hot, will receive the Illustrious Award for Outstanding Achievement in Acting. Actress Mishel Prada, recognized for her lead role in Starz’s VIDA and Peacock’s The Continental, will be honored with the Illustrious Award for Trailblazer Excellence in Acting. Acclaimed television director Felix Alcala (Lone Star, 911) will receive the Trailblazer in Directing Award, and entertainment journalist Naibe Reynoso will be honored with the Excellence in Journalism Award. The festival will also present the Excellence in Community-Minded Media Influence Award to two individuals.
Awards will be presented by a distinguished group including writer/director/producer Linda Yvette Chavez, NALIP Executive Director Diana Luna, actor/producer Pepe Serna, managing partner Gilbert Vasquez, and producer Moctesuma Esparza. As Latino representation in Hollywood grows, MAFTF stands as a vital platform elevating the voices and talent shaping the future of film and television. For more information, visit https://www.maftf.org/.
