The African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA) and the Latino Entertainment Journalists Association (LEJA) have announced the launch of the inaugural Afro-Latino Short Film Competition, set to take place on October 12, 2024, at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Sponsored by Lexus, the event will run from 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and is free and open to the public.
This competition aims to give emerging filmmakers a platform to present short films that explore Afro-Latino identities in the U.S. and globally. Filmmakers participating in the event will have the opportunity to network with key Hollywood agents and movie executives, while also receiving a one-year membership with Film Independent, an organization that supports independent filmmakers.
Afro-Latinos, who make up over 24 percent of the Latin American population, often face marginalization in both African American and Latino communities. This event seeks to bring greater visibility to their experiences and cultural contributions. Given South Florida’s large Latin American population, the location serves as an ideal setting for highlighting these stories.
“We are thrilled to help bring the Afro-Latino Short Film Competition to life,” said Gil Robertson, President of AAFCA, in a press release. “This event celebrates the richness of Afro-Latino culture and provides an essential platform for emerging filmmakers to tell their stories.”
Toni Gonzales, President and cofounder of LEJA, echoed this sentiment in a press release saying “Afro-Latinos and their stories are vital to the history of both marginalized communities, and to ignore them is to ignore history. We’re proud to partner with AAFCA to amplify these voices through film.”
The films presented during the competition will cover a range of topics, offering filmmakers the chance to explore identity, race, and community through an Afro-Latino lens. Judges for the competition include prominent industry figures such as actor Allen Maldonado (“Black-ish,” “House Party”), James Lopez, President of Macro Films, and Sarunas Jackson, actor from HBO’s “Insecure.” Filmmakers Natalia Cabral and Jean Jean will also serve as judges.
The winning films from the competition will premiere on AAFCA’s Facebook and YouTube channels on October 19, 2024, providing further exposure for the filmmakers and their work.
This is a Hy-Lo News Staff Report.
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