Pa'lante Theater is proud to present the 2nd Annual Afro Latino Film Festival, a vibrant celebration dedicated to amplifying the voices and stories of Black, Latine, Puerto Rican, and Afro-Caribbean communities worldwide. This festival is a platform for cinematic works that reflect the rich diversity, resilience, and creativity of the Afro Latino diaspora.
As part of a multi-city tour, the festival will showcase a dynamic selection of films that explore the histories, cultures, and lived experiences of our global community. From compelling narratives to insightful documentaries, these films will spotlight the triumphs, challenges, and unique identities that shape the Afro Latino world.
Join us in honoring the artistry and heritage of Afro Latino storytellers, connecting audiences across borders, and fostering a deeper appreciation for the intersections of Black and Latino identities. This celebration of culture promises to be a transformative experience for all who attend.
Schedule Of Events:
Vecino - World Premiere
Rolando Meléndez, 2023, Puerto Rico
This short film narrates the story of Javi Vecino, a local muralist who paints murals of native houses that identify the Puerto Rican community and are in danger of disappearing due to gentrification.
Eight Years and Ninety Miles - World Premiere
Luca David Higonnet-Faithfull, 2024, United States
Ocho Años y Noventa Millas is a documentary film that follows professional soccer player Bruno Rendon, after he chooses to defect from his home country of Cuba to attempt to start a professional career in the United States.
Bicycle Island (A donde nos lleva) - World Premiere
Director Mitra Elena Ghaffari, 2023, Cuba
A contemporary mosaic of Havana explores the bicycle as a reclaimed mobility tool and critical resource for the future of the island.
Si Se Puede! - Trade Union Action in Colombia
Pieter De Vos, 2023, Colombia
This documentary sheds a shocking light on the reality of Colombia, considered the most dangerous country in the world for activists. This film follows the story of an oil worker in Barrancabermeja and domestic workers in Cartagena.
Black is Beautiful - World Premiere
Marco Antonio Ortega, 2023, United States
This short documentary film tells the story of the head brewer of Weathered Souls Brewing Co. who wanted to shed light on the growing problem of inequality and police brutality via his "Black is Beautiful" project. We follow the impact of the initiative and where it is today.
The Orchestra Chuck Built
Christopher Stoudt, 2023, United States
In 2016, the League of American Orchestras conducted a study that revealed a shocking statistic: only 1.8% of the professional orchestra workforce in the U.S. is Black. From the Los Angeles inner city, former lawyer-turned-conductor Chuck Dickerson is on a mission to change that.
Additional Dates: