The Mexican American Film & Television Festival (MAFTF) will return for its fifth annual edition on April 25–26 in Los Angeles, celebrating Mexican-American and Latino storytelling with screenings, workshops, networking events, and the Illustrious Awards. The festival, which received more than 200 submissions this year, will showcase feature films, documentaries, short films, and vertical storytelling projects that reflect the diversity of Mexican-American perspectives in media.
Dr. Jose Luis Ruiz, president and festival director of MAFTF, emphasized the festival's theme: “Our Stories Must Be Told To Defy Adversity.” He noted that storytelling helps inform, heal, and resist forces harming the community. Beyond screenings, MAFTF serves as a creative hub connecting filmmakers with industry decision-makers, providing a platform for both emerging and established talent to collaborate and build partnerships.
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, which includes roles in El Norte, Nixon, Blood In Blood Out, and Weeds. Annie Gonzalez, known for Gentefied, Flamin’ Hot, and the title role in Jenni, will receive the Illustrious Award for Outstanding Achievement in Acting. 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 making a meaningful impact through media and community advocacy.
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 continues to grow, MAFTF stands as an important platform elevating the voices and creativity of storytellers shaping the future of film and television. For more information, visit MAFTF's official website.
