A Not So Merry Christmas is a Mexican film directed by Mark Alazraki, starring Mauricio Ochmann and Ana Brenda Contreras.
A Mexican version of Groundhog Day (1993), this Netflix production starts well (with a musical number of dance and Christmas carols) and gradually becomes more and more deflated consumed by the inevitable Christmas spirit.
Premise
Chuy has become a bit grumpy and self-centered, having reached midlife, married and father to two. This year he is doomed to relive Christmas day after day in a terrifying space time glitch until he starts appreciating the season.
Movie Review
It has a good premise: a man who hate Christmas that coincidentally falls on the same date as his birthday. May Frank Capra’s everlasting Christmas Spirit forgive me, but it seems that many of us feel like this (even Stephen King), and we relate to the protagonist, and are already fed up with the season,...
A Mexican version of Groundhog Day (1993), this Netflix production starts well (with a musical number of dance and Christmas carols) and gradually becomes more and more deflated consumed by the inevitable Christmas spirit.
Premise
Chuy has become a bit grumpy and self-centered, having reached midlife, married and father to two. This year he is doomed to relive Christmas day after day in a terrifying space time glitch until he starts appreciating the season.
Movie Review
It has a good premise: a man who hate Christmas that coincidentally falls on the same date as his birthday. May Frank Capra’s everlasting Christmas Spirit forgive me, but it seems that many of us feel like this (even Stephen King), and we relate to the protagonist, and are already fed up with the season,...
- 12/20/2022
- by Elisabeth Plank
- Martin Cid Magazine - Movies
The eighth annual Hola Mexican Film Festival, presented by DishLATINO, the largest festival of cinema outside of Mexico, today announced a partial lineup of the 2016 festival schedule including opening and closing nights and four special showcase presentations. The festival runs May 13-22 with all screenings taking place at the Regal La Live Stadium 14 Theatre, except for closing night which will be at La Plaza de Cultura y Artes Theatre in downtown Los Angeles.
This year’s festival will open with "Thin Yellow Line" (La Delgada Linea Amarilla) nominated for 14 Premios Ariel Awards (Mexico’s “Oscars”). The film is a story of smooth roads and bumpy rides, with unexpected twists and turns... like life itself. Directed by Celso R. Garcia, the film stars Damián Alcazar, Joaquín Cosio, Silverio Palacios, Gustavo Sánchez Parra. Confirmed to attend the premiere are Cosio and Palacios as well as other special guests.
Additional showcase screenings include "We Fulfill Your Dreams" (Ilusiones S.A.) directed by Roberto Girault and starring Jaime Camil, Adriana Louvier, Silvia Mariscal on Wednesday, May 18 at 7:00 Pm and "Mr. Pig" with star Danny Glover to attend, on Thursday, May 19, at 7:00 Pm.
Closing the festival on Sunday, May 22 is "Panoramas," a unique and introspective look inside one of Latin America's top alternative-rock music acts, Zoé. Members of band Zoé will attend and perform a DJ set. This special event screening will take place at La Plaza Cultura y Artes Theatre located at 501 N. Main Street, downtown Los Angeles.
Also this year marks the first time that films from a country outside of Mexico will be shown with special presentations of two films from Chile – "Sin Filtro" and "El Bosque de Karadima"
Opening Night Premiere – Friday, May 13 at 7:00 Pm
Regal La Live Stadium 14
"The Thin Yellow Line" (La Delgada Linea Amarilla)
Dir. Celso R. Garcia
Cast: Damián Alcazar, Joaquín Cosio, Silverio Palacios, Gustavo Sánchez Parra
Mexico 2015, 95 Min
Five men are hired to paint the yellow line of a road that will link two forgotten towns in Mexico. With less than 2 weeks to cover over 200 kilometers aboard a '76 pick-up truck, they will discover that painting at a speed of 1 km/hour will teach them about the lines between good and evil, laughter and despair, life and death. The challenges they face will change their lives forever. The Thin Yellow Line is a story of smooth roads and bumpy rides, with unexpected twists and turns... like life itself.
Closing Night Premiere – Sunday, May 22 At 7:00 Pm
La Plaza Cultura y Artes theatre located at 501 N. Main Street, downtown Los Angeles.
"Panoramas"
Dir. Rodrigo Guardiola y Gabriel Cruz Rivas
Cast: Zoé
Mexico 2016, 90 Min
A unique and introspective look inside one of Latin America's top alternative-rock music acts, Zoé. “Panoramas” is a Cinéma Vérité-style portrait of Zoé that takes you on a contemplative audio/visual journey through some of the band's most decisive moments. A film crew accompanies the band during a two-year period to provide us with an intimate behind-the-scenes look at the band’s longest international tour to date, in their first real shot at becoming well-known and "making it big" outside their home country of México. The 15-year artistic career of Zoé completes its growth-cycle and reaches full circle as the musicians arrive at the quintessential question all bands face: What's next?
MÉXico Now
"We Fulfill Your Dreams" (Ilusiones S.A.)
Wednesday, May 18 at 7:00 Pm
Dir. Roberto Girault
Cast: Jaime Camil, Adriana Louvier, Silvia Mariscal
Mexico 2015, 90 Min
"We Fulfill Your Dreams" is a company that makes fantasies come to life. Made up of a group of actors and led by a ‘Director' (Jaime Camil), they create set-ups to re-enact real-life circumstances for the good of people.
For their latest job, they are hired by Mr. Balboa to spend a week in the roles of a long-gone loving grandson and his wife. Portrayed as an angel to his grandmother through fictitious letters created by the elderly Mr. Balboa, the young man has in reality become a villainous character. But things go awry for actors Mauricio and Isabel when the real grandson turns up for a show-down with his grandparents.
"Mr. Pig"
Thursday, May 19 at 7:00 Pm
Dir. Diego Luna
Cast: Danny Glover, Maya Rudolph, Jose Maria Yazpik
Mexico 2016, 100 Min
Ambrose Eubanks (Danny Glover), is an old-school pig farmer from California. After the family farm is foreclosed, he sets off with Howard, his beloved (and very large) pig, on a road trip to Mexico.
Ambrose must figure out how to smuggle "Howie" across the border and find him a new home.
"In Your Eyes" (A los Ojos)
Friday, May 20 at 7:00 Pm and Saturday, May 21 at 1:00 Pm
Dir. Victoria Franco y Michel Franco
Cast: Mónica del Carmen, Omar Moreno, Benjamín Espinoza, Jacobo Najman
Mexico 2015, 96 Min
Monica is a social worker from Mexico City, a single mother whose child is suffering from a degenerative illness of the eyes. Having exhausted all other options, a corneal transplant is the child's only hope. Overwhelmed by the ineffectiveness of the health system and the scarcity of resources, Monica is driven to an extreme solution... Found within the world of the street children.
"The Aparicios" (Las Aparacio)
Sunday, May 15 at 4:30 Pm and Tuesday, May 17 at 9:00 Pm
Dir. Moisés Ortiz - Urquidi
Cast: Ana De La Reguera, María Del Carmen Farías, Liz Gallardo, Eréndia Ibarra, Damián Alcazar, Joaquín Cosio, Paulina Gaitán y Tenoch Huerta
México 2016,
The Aparicios are a family made up entirely of women, all cursed to become widows and to never bear male children. At their ranch in Xico, in the state of Veracruz, they discover the body of the first husband of an Aparicio woman. This leads the Aparicios to search their past in an attempt to end the ancient curse, and finally face their present
"Parallel Roads" (Rumbos Paralelos)
Saturday, May 14 at 7:00 Pm
Dir. Rafael Montero
Cast: Ludwika Paleta, Iliana Fox, Michel Brown, Arturo Barba
Mexico 2016,
(Film in Spanish, no English subtitles)
Rumbos Paralelos (Parallel Roads) tells the emotional story of two young mothers whose lives change unexpectedly.
Silvia must suddenly confront both her son’s illness and the abrupt discovery that she is not his biological mother. Desperate to find a donor for a life-saving kidney transplant, Silvia will seek out Gaby, the child's true biological mother. The following actions will put the power of maternity to the test and challenge life as a whole. Are family ties made out of love? Or are they carried in our blood?
"Paradise Lost" (Paraiso Perdido)
Saturday, May 21 at 7:00 Pm
Dir. Humberto Hinojosa
Cast: Ana Claudia Talancón, Iván Sanchez, Andrés Almeida
México 2016, 87 Min
Three friends are traveling by sailboat through Caribbean waters, when they come across a deserted paradise island and decide to explore it. What was supposed to be one of the best weekends of their lives will turn into a tireless fight for survival when they discover the island's hidden secret.
"She is Ramona" (Ella es Ramona)
Saturday, May 14 at 9:00 Pm and Monday, May 16 at 5:00 Pm
Dir. Hugo Rodriguez
Cast: Andrea Ortega Lee, Daniel Giménez Cacho, María Rojo, Leticia Huijara
México 2015, 83 Min
Ramona is overweight, with too many kilos and not enough luck. She remembers a childhood as the victim of abuse at the hands of her mother, her sister, and even her friends. She was Big Belly Ramona, Big Eater Ramona, Ramona the Pig. Now an adult, things aren't looking much better. Her life seems to be crumbling. She gets fired for being fat; when she seeks liposuction, her doctor rejects as a candidate for the procedure because she is too overweight. Things begin falling into place, however, when she stumbles across a Tarot café which sells the magic beetles that will change her life.
"Elvira, I would Give You my Life, but I’m Using It" (Elvira, Te Daria Mi Vida Pero La Estoy Usando)
Thursday, May 19 at 9:00 Pm
Dir. Manolo Caro
Cast: Cecilia Suárez, Luis Gerardo Méndez, Vanessa Bauche
Mexico 2015, 108 Min
Gustavo, husband of Elvira, goes out one night to buy cigarettes, never to return. Elvira, a 40-year-old mother of two, begins a relentless search for the love of her life. Clues lead her to the conclusion that her husband has kept a secret relationship. The unfortunate discovery will not stop Elvira in her mission of finding him.
"The Chosen Ones" (Las Elegidas)
Friday, May 20 at 9:00 Pm
Dir. David Pablos
Cast: Nancy Talamantes, Óscar Torres
Mexico 2015, 105 Min
Sofia, 14 years old, is in love with Ulises. Because of him, in spite of him, she is forced into a prostitution ring in Mexico. To set her free, Ulises will have to find another girl to replace her...
New Voices
"Leaf Blower" (Sopladora de Hojas)
Saturday, May 14 at 2:00 Pm, Monday, May 16 at 9:30 Pm and Friday, May 20 at 5:00 Pm
Dir. Alejandro Iglesias
Cast: Francisco Rueda, Alejandro Guerrero, Fabrizio Santini
Mexico 2015, 96 Min
Lucas, Emilio and Rubén are three friends united in a special quest: to find a set of lost keys in a pile of dead leaves. What appears to be a simple task will turn into a profound journey that forces the teenagers to confront their fears: of letting go of the past, of facing embarrassing truths, of taking risks... Of growing up. This afternoon, as trivial as it may sound, could change the course of their lives. Or maybe not.
"Amir"
Saturday, May 14 at 4:00 Pm and Thursday, May 19 at 5:00 Pm
Dir. José Paredes
Cast: Jorge Guevara, Tania Niebla y Lirio Karina
Mexico 2015, 90 Min
Amir, an aspiring musician, finds himself drawn to Jeanette, a beautiful singer he meets during a night out on the town with his friends. The attraction complicates his relationship with his current girlfriend, Elizabeth, who is expecting his child. Amir will attempt to work out his feelings towards his newfound love interest, music and maturity, as adulthood forces him to make some challenging choices along the way.
"The Arrival of Conrado Sierra" (El Arribo de Conrado Sierra)
Friday, May 20 at 9:00 Pm
Dir. René Pereyra
Cast: Maite Perroni, Joaquín Cosío, Susana Dosamantes, Ana González, Rocío García, Jessica Mas
Mexico 2015, 120 Min
In 1940's "Torres Mochas" (the city of Torreón, Mexico), the widow Doña Josefina and her five spinster daughters await the arrival of a man aiming to marry the youngest of the sisters. The local townspeople, excited at the prospect of one of “Virgin Josefitas” finally marrying, prepare massive celebrations. When the mysterious suitor finally appears, circumstances take an unforeseen course.
For The Children
"The Adventures of Itzel and Sonia" (Las Aventuras de Itzel y Sonia)
Saturday, May 14 at 12:00 Pm
Dir. Fernanda Rivero
Cast: Arcelía Ramírez, Cassandra Ciangherotti, Joaquín Cosío, Bruno Bichir
Mexico 2016, 70 Min
This film was made as part of the “Cuéntamelo filmando” ("Tell it to me with the cameras rolling") workshop and was done with the support of 500 people from 10 rural communities in Mexico.
Itzel, an 8-year-old girl, and her best friend ‘Sonia the Frog’ will embark on a mission to find the guardians of the water, before the city's supply runs out. With the help of her grandmother, they will search in the most remote areas of Mexico, while a faceless being stalks them.
"By My Mustache" (Por Mis Bigotes)
Sunday, May 15 at 12:00 Pm
Dir. Manuel Carames
Cast: Jesus Ochoa, Santiago Torres, Fernando Becerril
Mexico 2015, 90 Min
Though it sounds unbelievable, little Ulises, at only nine years old, has grown an enormous mustache from one day to the next. So begins a series of extraordinary events for him, his mother and his best friends. From this moment forward, all of them, along with a cast of very curious characters, will find themselves caught up in a very hairy adventure.
Documentary
"Made in Bangkok"
Monday, May 16 at 7:00 Pm
Dir. Flavio Florencio
Cast: Morgana Love
Mexico 2015, 75 Min
Morgana is a Mexican transgender opera singer with a relentless determination to assert her identity, despite having to fight against social stigma and family prejudice. Her dream is to have gender-reassignment surgery. Her only chance to make happen is by winning a beauty pageant in Bangkok, and use the $10,000 cash prize to pay for the surgery. The documentary embarks on Morgana’s journey with her, while providing us with an intimate portrait of what it is to construct a long-dreamt-of identity.
"Mexican Fighting" (Lucha Mexico)
Sunday, May 15 at 7:00 Pm
Dir. Alexandria Hammond & Ian Markiewicz
Cast: 1000% Guapo, Blue Demon, Hijo Del Perro Aguayo, Tony Salazar, Arkangel
México / USA 103 Min
The ultimate look behind the mask, Lucha Mexico documents the joyous spectacle of Lucha Libre wrestling, which has thrilled Mexican fans for generations. The story follows "El 1000% Guapo" (1000% Handsome) Shocker, one of the most successful Luchadores of the modern era. His life is consumed by the need of being in the ring. A supporting cast of fan-favorites further reveal the world of Lucha Libre from the inside, with Blue Demon Jr. discussing life from behind a legendary mask; the violent history of El Hijo del Perro Aguayo (the Son of "The Dog" Aguayo); as well as veterans like Tony Salazar and Archangel, as they pass on the secrets of the ring to a new generation of fighters. These stars and others will shed light on the intense physical and emotional challenges they must constantly face in order to stand inside the ropes and thrill every last fan. With its unprecedented access to the top Lucha performers and promoters, as well as other players of this grand spectacle, Lucha Mexico steps into the ring to show us the great power behind the mask, and leads us straight to the beating heart of Mexico.
Hola Chile
"The Church Of Karadima" (El Bosque de Karadima)
Sunday, May 15 at 2:00 Pm and Tuesday, May 17 at 7:00 Pm
Dir. Matías Lira
Cast: Benjamin Vicuña, Luis Gnecco, Ingrid Isensee
Chile 2015, 98 Min
Fernando Karadima, the pastor and leader of the most powerful Church of the Chilean upper class from the 1980's to 2000's, is considered a living saint. Thomas, a teenager in search of his vocation, finds himself drawn to Karadima and accepts him as a spiritual guide. For 20 years, Tommy will gradually be subjected to physical and psychological abuse by the priest, until he decides to speak out and confront both the charismatic priest and the power networks that protect him, finally uncovering the real Karadima hiding behind the investiture of God's representative on Earth.
"No Filter" (Sin Filtro)
Wednesday, May 18 at 9:00 Pm
Dir. Nicolás López
Cast: Paz Bascuñán, Ignacia Allamand, Paulo Brunei
Chile 2016, 100 Min
Pía is on the verge of a nervous breakdown: Her boss humiliates her, her husband ignores her, her stepson is disrespectful, and her best friend no longer listens to what she says.
Pía begins having strong chest pains and, after trying many different healing methods, decides to undergo an acupuncture treatment. The Chinese doctor discovers that Pía's pain is caused by repressed feelings, and, with an ancient technique, he "removes the filter". From now on, an uninhibited Pía will realize that the only way to heal herself is to speak everything that comes to mind - which won't always bring her the best results.
Nocturnal/Genre
"Barrancas"
Saturday, May 14 at 12 Midnight and Wednesday, May 18 at 5:00 Pm
Dir. Juan De La Peña
Cast: Diego Sánchez, Esteban De la Isla, Ana Lucía Camacho, Julia Dávalos, Eduardo Romo, Gustavo Gascón, Inés Vachez
Mexico 2016, 88 Min
The owner of a huge house in the woods, in the town of Barrancas, has a reputation for not paying his employees. When the latest housekeeper goes missing, everyone simply assumes that yet another employee has quit. Meanwhile, back in the city, the owner's nephew Mario is tasked with going to Barrancas to hand over the keys to the new caretaker. Young Mario thinks it’s a good idea to secretly invite his friends from college, as well as the girl he likes, out to the country house for a fun weekend. What Mario doesn’t know is that this may turn out to be a very dangerous idea indeed.
"The Similars" (Los Parecidos)
Sunday, May 15 at 9:30 Pm and Tuesday, May 17 at 5:00 Pm
Dir. Isaac Ezban
Cast: Gustavo Sánchez Parra, Cassandra Ciangherotti, Humberto Busto, Carmen Beato
Mexico 2015, 89 Min
In the rainy darkness of the early morning hours of October 2, 1968, eight people are waiting in a remote bus station in the middle of nowhere for the bus heading to Mexico City. They’ll soon find themselves experiencing a strange phenomenon.
For more information and ticket sales visit - http://holamexicoff.com...
This year’s festival will open with "Thin Yellow Line" (La Delgada Linea Amarilla) nominated for 14 Premios Ariel Awards (Mexico’s “Oscars”). The film is a story of smooth roads and bumpy rides, with unexpected twists and turns... like life itself. Directed by Celso R. Garcia, the film stars Damián Alcazar, Joaquín Cosio, Silverio Palacios, Gustavo Sánchez Parra. Confirmed to attend the premiere are Cosio and Palacios as well as other special guests.
Additional showcase screenings include "We Fulfill Your Dreams" (Ilusiones S.A.) directed by Roberto Girault and starring Jaime Camil, Adriana Louvier, Silvia Mariscal on Wednesday, May 18 at 7:00 Pm and "Mr. Pig" with star Danny Glover to attend, on Thursday, May 19, at 7:00 Pm.
Closing the festival on Sunday, May 22 is "Panoramas," a unique and introspective look inside one of Latin America's top alternative-rock music acts, Zoé. Members of band Zoé will attend and perform a DJ set. This special event screening will take place at La Plaza Cultura y Artes Theatre located at 501 N. Main Street, downtown Los Angeles.
Also this year marks the first time that films from a country outside of Mexico will be shown with special presentations of two films from Chile – "Sin Filtro" and "El Bosque de Karadima"
Opening Night Premiere – Friday, May 13 at 7:00 Pm
Regal La Live Stadium 14
"The Thin Yellow Line" (La Delgada Linea Amarilla)
Dir. Celso R. Garcia
Cast: Damián Alcazar, Joaquín Cosio, Silverio Palacios, Gustavo Sánchez Parra
Mexico 2015, 95 Min
Five men are hired to paint the yellow line of a road that will link two forgotten towns in Mexico. With less than 2 weeks to cover over 200 kilometers aboard a '76 pick-up truck, they will discover that painting at a speed of 1 km/hour will teach them about the lines between good and evil, laughter and despair, life and death. The challenges they face will change their lives forever. The Thin Yellow Line is a story of smooth roads and bumpy rides, with unexpected twists and turns... like life itself.
Closing Night Premiere – Sunday, May 22 At 7:00 Pm
La Plaza Cultura y Artes theatre located at 501 N. Main Street, downtown Los Angeles.
"Panoramas"
Dir. Rodrigo Guardiola y Gabriel Cruz Rivas
Cast: Zoé
Mexico 2016, 90 Min
A unique and introspective look inside one of Latin America's top alternative-rock music acts, Zoé. “Panoramas” is a Cinéma Vérité-style portrait of Zoé that takes you on a contemplative audio/visual journey through some of the band's most decisive moments. A film crew accompanies the band during a two-year period to provide us with an intimate behind-the-scenes look at the band’s longest international tour to date, in their first real shot at becoming well-known and "making it big" outside their home country of México. The 15-year artistic career of Zoé completes its growth-cycle and reaches full circle as the musicians arrive at the quintessential question all bands face: What's next?
MÉXico Now
"We Fulfill Your Dreams" (Ilusiones S.A.)
Wednesday, May 18 at 7:00 Pm
Dir. Roberto Girault
Cast: Jaime Camil, Adriana Louvier, Silvia Mariscal
Mexico 2015, 90 Min
"We Fulfill Your Dreams" is a company that makes fantasies come to life. Made up of a group of actors and led by a ‘Director' (Jaime Camil), they create set-ups to re-enact real-life circumstances for the good of people.
For their latest job, they are hired by Mr. Balboa to spend a week in the roles of a long-gone loving grandson and his wife. Portrayed as an angel to his grandmother through fictitious letters created by the elderly Mr. Balboa, the young man has in reality become a villainous character. But things go awry for actors Mauricio and Isabel when the real grandson turns up for a show-down with his grandparents.
"Mr. Pig"
Thursday, May 19 at 7:00 Pm
Dir. Diego Luna
Cast: Danny Glover, Maya Rudolph, Jose Maria Yazpik
Mexico 2016, 100 Min
Ambrose Eubanks (Danny Glover), is an old-school pig farmer from California. After the family farm is foreclosed, he sets off with Howard, his beloved (and very large) pig, on a road trip to Mexico.
Ambrose must figure out how to smuggle "Howie" across the border and find him a new home.
"In Your Eyes" (A los Ojos)
Friday, May 20 at 7:00 Pm and Saturday, May 21 at 1:00 Pm
Dir. Victoria Franco y Michel Franco
Cast: Mónica del Carmen, Omar Moreno, Benjamín Espinoza, Jacobo Najman
Mexico 2015, 96 Min
Monica is a social worker from Mexico City, a single mother whose child is suffering from a degenerative illness of the eyes. Having exhausted all other options, a corneal transplant is the child's only hope. Overwhelmed by the ineffectiveness of the health system and the scarcity of resources, Monica is driven to an extreme solution... Found within the world of the street children.
"The Aparicios" (Las Aparacio)
Sunday, May 15 at 4:30 Pm and Tuesday, May 17 at 9:00 Pm
Dir. Moisés Ortiz - Urquidi
Cast: Ana De La Reguera, María Del Carmen Farías, Liz Gallardo, Eréndia Ibarra, Damián Alcazar, Joaquín Cosio, Paulina Gaitán y Tenoch Huerta
México 2016,
The Aparicios are a family made up entirely of women, all cursed to become widows and to never bear male children. At their ranch in Xico, in the state of Veracruz, they discover the body of the first husband of an Aparicio woman. This leads the Aparicios to search their past in an attempt to end the ancient curse, and finally face their present
"Parallel Roads" (Rumbos Paralelos)
Saturday, May 14 at 7:00 Pm
Dir. Rafael Montero
Cast: Ludwika Paleta, Iliana Fox, Michel Brown, Arturo Barba
Mexico 2016,
(Film in Spanish, no English subtitles)
Rumbos Paralelos (Parallel Roads) tells the emotional story of two young mothers whose lives change unexpectedly.
Silvia must suddenly confront both her son’s illness and the abrupt discovery that she is not his biological mother. Desperate to find a donor for a life-saving kidney transplant, Silvia will seek out Gaby, the child's true biological mother. The following actions will put the power of maternity to the test and challenge life as a whole. Are family ties made out of love? Or are they carried in our blood?
"Paradise Lost" (Paraiso Perdido)
Saturday, May 21 at 7:00 Pm
Dir. Humberto Hinojosa
Cast: Ana Claudia Talancón, Iván Sanchez, Andrés Almeida
México 2016, 87 Min
Three friends are traveling by sailboat through Caribbean waters, when they come across a deserted paradise island and decide to explore it. What was supposed to be one of the best weekends of their lives will turn into a tireless fight for survival when they discover the island's hidden secret.
"She is Ramona" (Ella es Ramona)
Saturday, May 14 at 9:00 Pm and Monday, May 16 at 5:00 Pm
Dir. Hugo Rodriguez
Cast: Andrea Ortega Lee, Daniel Giménez Cacho, María Rojo, Leticia Huijara
México 2015, 83 Min
Ramona is overweight, with too many kilos and not enough luck. She remembers a childhood as the victim of abuse at the hands of her mother, her sister, and even her friends. She was Big Belly Ramona, Big Eater Ramona, Ramona the Pig. Now an adult, things aren't looking much better. Her life seems to be crumbling. She gets fired for being fat; when she seeks liposuction, her doctor rejects as a candidate for the procedure because she is too overweight. Things begin falling into place, however, when she stumbles across a Tarot café which sells the magic beetles that will change her life.
"Elvira, I would Give You my Life, but I’m Using It" (Elvira, Te Daria Mi Vida Pero La Estoy Usando)
Thursday, May 19 at 9:00 Pm
Dir. Manolo Caro
Cast: Cecilia Suárez, Luis Gerardo Méndez, Vanessa Bauche
Mexico 2015, 108 Min
Gustavo, husband of Elvira, goes out one night to buy cigarettes, never to return. Elvira, a 40-year-old mother of two, begins a relentless search for the love of her life. Clues lead her to the conclusion that her husband has kept a secret relationship. The unfortunate discovery will not stop Elvira in her mission of finding him.
"The Chosen Ones" (Las Elegidas)
Friday, May 20 at 9:00 Pm
Dir. David Pablos
Cast: Nancy Talamantes, Óscar Torres
Mexico 2015, 105 Min
Sofia, 14 years old, is in love with Ulises. Because of him, in spite of him, she is forced into a prostitution ring in Mexico. To set her free, Ulises will have to find another girl to replace her...
New Voices
"Leaf Blower" (Sopladora de Hojas)
Saturday, May 14 at 2:00 Pm, Monday, May 16 at 9:30 Pm and Friday, May 20 at 5:00 Pm
Dir. Alejandro Iglesias
Cast: Francisco Rueda, Alejandro Guerrero, Fabrizio Santini
Mexico 2015, 96 Min
Lucas, Emilio and Rubén are three friends united in a special quest: to find a set of lost keys in a pile of dead leaves. What appears to be a simple task will turn into a profound journey that forces the teenagers to confront their fears: of letting go of the past, of facing embarrassing truths, of taking risks... Of growing up. This afternoon, as trivial as it may sound, could change the course of their lives. Or maybe not.
"Amir"
Saturday, May 14 at 4:00 Pm and Thursday, May 19 at 5:00 Pm
Dir. José Paredes
Cast: Jorge Guevara, Tania Niebla y Lirio Karina
Mexico 2015, 90 Min
Amir, an aspiring musician, finds himself drawn to Jeanette, a beautiful singer he meets during a night out on the town with his friends. The attraction complicates his relationship with his current girlfriend, Elizabeth, who is expecting his child. Amir will attempt to work out his feelings towards his newfound love interest, music and maturity, as adulthood forces him to make some challenging choices along the way.
"The Arrival of Conrado Sierra" (El Arribo de Conrado Sierra)
Friday, May 20 at 9:00 Pm
Dir. René Pereyra
Cast: Maite Perroni, Joaquín Cosío, Susana Dosamantes, Ana González, Rocío García, Jessica Mas
Mexico 2015, 120 Min
In 1940's "Torres Mochas" (the city of Torreón, Mexico), the widow Doña Josefina and her five spinster daughters await the arrival of a man aiming to marry the youngest of the sisters. The local townspeople, excited at the prospect of one of “Virgin Josefitas” finally marrying, prepare massive celebrations. When the mysterious suitor finally appears, circumstances take an unforeseen course.
For The Children
"The Adventures of Itzel and Sonia" (Las Aventuras de Itzel y Sonia)
Saturday, May 14 at 12:00 Pm
Dir. Fernanda Rivero
Cast: Arcelía Ramírez, Cassandra Ciangherotti, Joaquín Cosío, Bruno Bichir
Mexico 2016, 70 Min
This film was made as part of the “Cuéntamelo filmando” ("Tell it to me with the cameras rolling") workshop and was done with the support of 500 people from 10 rural communities in Mexico.
Itzel, an 8-year-old girl, and her best friend ‘Sonia the Frog’ will embark on a mission to find the guardians of the water, before the city's supply runs out. With the help of her grandmother, they will search in the most remote areas of Mexico, while a faceless being stalks them.
"By My Mustache" (Por Mis Bigotes)
Sunday, May 15 at 12:00 Pm
Dir. Manuel Carames
Cast: Jesus Ochoa, Santiago Torres, Fernando Becerril
Mexico 2015, 90 Min
Though it sounds unbelievable, little Ulises, at only nine years old, has grown an enormous mustache from one day to the next. So begins a series of extraordinary events for him, his mother and his best friends. From this moment forward, all of them, along with a cast of very curious characters, will find themselves caught up in a very hairy adventure.
Documentary
"Made in Bangkok"
Monday, May 16 at 7:00 Pm
Dir. Flavio Florencio
Cast: Morgana Love
Mexico 2015, 75 Min
Morgana is a Mexican transgender opera singer with a relentless determination to assert her identity, despite having to fight against social stigma and family prejudice. Her dream is to have gender-reassignment surgery. Her only chance to make happen is by winning a beauty pageant in Bangkok, and use the $10,000 cash prize to pay for the surgery. The documentary embarks on Morgana’s journey with her, while providing us with an intimate portrait of what it is to construct a long-dreamt-of identity.
"Mexican Fighting" (Lucha Mexico)
Sunday, May 15 at 7:00 Pm
Dir. Alexandria Hammond & Ian Markiewicz
Cast: 1000% Guapo, Blue Demon, Hijo Del Perro Aguayo, Tony Salazar, Arkangel
México / USA 103 Min
The ultimate look behind the mask, Lucha Mexico documents the joyous spectacle of Lucha Libre wrestling, which has thrilled Mexican fans for generations. The story follows "El 1000% Guapo" (1000% Handsome) Shocker, one of the most successful Luchadores of the modern era. His life is consumed by the need of being in the ring. A supporting cast of fan-favorites further reveal the world of Lucha Libre from the inside, with Blue Demon Jr. discussing life from behind a legendary mask; the violent history of El Hijo del Perro Aguayo (the Son of "The Dog" Aguayo); as well as veterans like Tony Salazar and Archangel, as they pass on the secrets of the ring to a new generation of fighters. These stars and others will shed light on the intense physical and emotional challenges they must constantly face in order to stand inside the ropes and thrill every last fan. With its unprecedented access to the top Lucha performers and promoters, as well as other players of this grand spectacle, Lucha Mexico steps into the ring to show us the great power behind the mask, and leads us straight to the beating heart of Mexico.
Hola Chile
"The Church Of Karadima" (El Bosque de Karadima)
Sunday, May 15 at 2:00 Pm and Tuesday, May 17 at 7:00 Pm
Dir. Matías Lira
Cast: Benjamin Vicuña, Luis Gnecco, Ingrid Isensee
Chile 2015, 98 Min
Fernando Karadima, the pastor and leader of the most powerful Church of the Chilean upper class from the 1980's to 2000's, is considered a living saint. Thomas, a teenager in search of his vocation, finds himself drawn to Karadima and accepts him as a spiritual guide. For 20 years, Tommy will gradually be subjected to physical and psychological abuse by the priest, until he decides to speak out and confront both the charismatic priest and the power networks that protect him, finally uncovering the real Karadima hiding behind the investiture of God's representative on Earth.
"No Filter" (Sin Filtro)
Wednesday, May 18 at 9:00 Pm
Dir. Nicolás López
Cast: Paz Bascuñán, Ignacia Allamand, Paulo Brunei
Chile 2016, 100 Min
Pía is on the verge of a nervous breakdown: Her boss humiliates her, her husband ignores her, her stepson is disrespectful, and her best friend no longer listens to what she says.
Pía begins having strong chest pains and, after trying many different healing methods, decides to undergo an acupuncture treatment. The Chinese doctor discovers that Pía's pain is caused by repressed feelings, and, with an ancient technique, he "removes the filter". From now on, an uninhibited Pía will realize that the only way to heal herself is to speak everything that comes to mind - which won't always bring her the best results.
Nocturnal/Genre
"Barrancas"
Saturday, May 14 at 12 Midnight and Wednesday, May 18 at 5:00 Pm
Dir. Juan De La Peña
Cast: Diego Sánchez, Esteban De la Isla, Ana Lucía Camacho, Julia Dávalos, Eduardo Romo, Gustavo Gascón, Inés Vachez
Mexico 2016, 88 Min
The owner of a huge house in the woods, in the town of Barrancas, has a reputation for not paying his employees. When the latest housekeeper goes missing, everyone simply assumes that yet another employee has quit. Meanwhile, back in the city, the owner's nephew Mario is tasked with going to Barrancas to hand over the keys to the new caretaker. Young Mario thinks it’s a good idea to secretly invite his friends from college, as well as the girl he likes, out to the country house for a fun weekend. What Mario doesn’t know is that this may turn out to be a very dangerous idea indeed.
"The Similars" (Los Parecidos)
Sunday, May 15 at 9:30 Pm and Tuesday, May 17 at 5:00 Pm
Dir. Isaac Ezban
Cast: Gustavo Sánchez Parra, Cassandra Ciangherotti, Humberto Busto, Carmen Beato
Mexico 2015, 89 Min
In the rainy darkness of the early morning hours of October 2, 1968, eight people are waiting in a remote bus station in the middle of nowhere for the bus heading to Mexico City. They’ll soon find themselves experiencing a strange phenomenon.
For more information and ticket sales visit - http://holamexicoff.com...
- 5/5/2016
- by Carlos Aguilar
- Sydney's Buzz
The Guadalajara International Film Festival in Los Angeles - Ficg in La - presented by the University of Guadalajara Foundation in USA and Conaculta, with Principal Sponsors University of Guadalajara, the Guadalajara International Film Festival, the Institute of Cinema Mexico (Imcine) and Univision, announced the celebrities who will attend the opening night gala on Friday, September 5.
Ficg in La previously announced that Academy Award nominee Demian Bichir ("A Better Life," FX’s The Bridge), Rubén Luengas (Univision Radio), anchorwoman Gabriela Teissier (Univision TV) and Nalip (National Association of Latino Independent Producers) will be honored. Joining them at the festival will be the cast and filmmakers of the opening night film "Las horas contigo" ("The Hours with You"), Isela Vega (lead actress), María Rojo (lead actress), Cassandra Ciangherotti (lead actress), Julio Bracho (supporting actor), Arcelia Ramírez (supporting actor), Catalina Aguilar Mastretta (director), Roberto Sneider(producer), Bérénice Eveno (director of photography). The festival also announced the addition of the short film "Solidarity" starring Elpidia Carrillo, who will be in attendance with the director Dustin Brown.
Cast members and filmmakers of the Closing night film "En el último trago" ("One for the Road") are also confirmed to attend, including Eduardo Manzano (supporting actor), Jack Zagha Kababie (director), Yossy Zagha Kababie (producer).
Directors of several other films in the festival will also attend. Nicolás Echevarría (director, "Eco de la Montaña"), Ignasi Millet (subject,"Ignasi M"), Mariana Chenillo (director, "Paraíso"), Damian John Harper (director, "Los Angeles"), Horacio Alcala (director, "Grazing the Sky"), Sara Seligman (director, live-action short, "Diego"), Bernardo Britto (director, Animation Short, "Yearbook") will also be in attendance.
Ficg in La is presented by the University of Guadalajara Foundation in the United States of America and Conaculta, and Principal Sponsors, the University of Guadalajara, the Guadalajara International Film Festival, the Institute of Cinema Mexico (Imcine) and Univision, and Supporting Sponsors Cultura Udg, University of Guadalajara Foundation in Los Angeles, LeaLa, Channel 31.2 and the General Consulate of Mexico in Los Angeles.
For tickets and more information visit Here
About Ficg
Ficg was founded in 1986 by the Mexican filmmaker Jaime Humberto Hermosillo, with the tremendous help from young film students like Guillermo del Toro, and support from the University of Guadalajara. It will celebrate its 30th edition next March 6-15, 2015.
Ficg is the lead film festival in Latin America. It is a forum for the training, education, and creative exchange among industry professionals, film critics, and film students from all over Ibero-America.
About the University of Guadalajara – Mexico
The University of Guadalajara is a network formed by three educational systems and 15 campuses distributed in all the regions of the State of Jalisco, and it is the second most important and eldest university in Mexico. The University of Guadalajara is committed to the betterment of society through higher education. It supports scientific and technological research that makes important contributions to a sustainable and inclusive society, respecting cultural diversity and honoring the principles of social justice, democracy, coexistence, and prosperity for all. The University is renowned in Mexico and abroad as a leader in the transformation of society through innovative means through social development and dissemination of knowledge.
About the Foundation of the University of Guadalajara in the U.S.
The University of Guadalajara Foundation in the United States of America is an extension of Fundación Universidad de Guadalajara, A.C., and is made up of a number of prominent academic and social leaders. The Foundation works to attain private support from individuals, foundations and corporations in order to fulfill the mission and vision of the University of Guadalajara in Los Angeles.
It seeks to improve the quality of life and social integration of migrants and hispanic nationals by increasing their access to education and enhancing their sense of belonging and identification with their environment by developing their skills and capabilities through educational services and relevant social research.
Ficg in La previously announced that Academy Award nominee Demian Bichir ("A Better Life," FX’s The Bridge), Rubén Luengas (Univision Radio), anchorwoman Gabriela Teissier (Univision TV) and Nalip (National Association of Latino Independent Producers) will be honored. Joining them at the festival will be the cast and filmmakers of the opening night film "Las horas contigo" ("The Hours with You"), Isela Vega (lead actress), María Rojo (lead actress), Cassandra Ciangherotti (lead actress), Julio Bracho (supporting actor), Arcelia Ramírez (supporting actor), Catalina Aguilar Mastretta (director), Roberto Sneider(producer), Bérénice Eveno (director of photography). The festival also announced the addition of the short film "Solidarity" starring Elpidia Carrillo, who will be in attendance with the director Dustin Brown.
Cast members and filmmakers of the Closing night film "En el último trago" ("One for the Road") are also confirmed to attend, including Eduardo Manzano (supporting actor), Jack Zagha Kababie (director), Yossy Zagha Kababie (producer).
Directors of several other films in the festival will also attend. Nicolás Echevarría (director, "Eco de la Montaña"), Ignasi Millet (subject,"Ignasi M"), Mariana Chenillo (director, "Paraíso"), Damian John Harper (director, "Los Angeles"), Horacio Alcala (director, "Grazing the Sky"), Sara Seligman (director, live-action short, "Diego"), Bernardo Britto (director, Animation Short, "Yearbook") will also be in attendance.
Ficg in La is presented by the University of Guadalajara Foundation in the United States of America and Conaculta, and Principal Sponsors, the University of Guadalajara, the Guadalajara International Film Festival, the Institute of Cinema Mexico (Imcine) and Univision, and Supporting Sponsors Cultura Udg, University of Guadalajara Foundation in Los Angeles, LeaLa, Channel 31.2 and the General Consulate of Mexico in Los Angeles.
For tickets and more information visit Here
About Ficg
Ficg was founded in 1986 by the Mexican filmmaker Jaime Humberto Hermosillo, with the tremendous help from young film students like Guillermo del Toro, and support from the University of Guadalajara. It will celebrate its 30th edition next March 6-15, 2015.
Ficg is the lead film festival in Latin America. It is a forum for the training, education, and creative exchange among industry professionals, film critics, and film students from all over Ibero-America.
About the University of Guadalajara – Mexico
The University of Guadalajara is a network formed by three educational systems and 15 campuses distributed in all the regions of the State of Jalisco, and it is the second most important and eldest university in Mexico. The University of Guadalajara is committed to the betterment of society through higher education. It supports scientific and technological research that makes important contributions to a sustainable and inclusive society, respecting cultural diversity and honoring the principles of social justice, democracy, coexistence, and prosperity for all. The University is renowned in Mexico and abroad as a leader in the transformation of society through innovative means through social development and dissemination of knowledge.
About the Foundation of the University of Guadalajara in the U.S.
The University of Guadalajara Foundation in the United States of America is an extension of Fundación Universidad de Guadalajara, A.C., and is made up of a number of prominent academic and social leaders. The Foundation works to attain private support from individuals, foundations and corporations in order to fulfill the mission and vision of the University of Guadalajara in Los Angeles.
It seeks to improve the quality of life and social integration of migrants and hispanic nationals by increasing their access to education and enhancing their sense of belonging and identification with their environment by developing their skills and capabilities through educational services and relevant social research.
- 9/3/2014
- by Peter Belsito
- Sydney's Buzz
Yesterday the Guadalajara International Film Festival in Los Angeles - Ficg in La - presented by the University of Guadalajara Foundation in USA and Conaculta, with Principal Sponsors University of Guadalajara, the Guadalajara International Film Festival, the Institute of Cinema Mexico (Imcine) and Univision, announced its lineup. "The Hours with You" (Las Horas Contigo) directed by Catalina Aguilar Mastretta, will be the Opening Night film for the 2014 Festival. The film stars Cassandra Ciangherotti, María Rojo, Isela Vega, Arcelia Ramírez and Julio Bracho.
The 2014 Ficg in La, which returns to the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood for its fourth year and runs from Thursday, September 4 to Sunday, September 7, brings the best of contemporary Mexican and Latin American cinema to Los Angeles, and is an extension of the Guadalajara International Film Festival.
Featuring outstanding and award-winning titles from FICG29, which ran from March 21-29, 2014 in Guadalajara, Ficg in La will offer the premiere of other titles that have emerged in the world of cinema throughout the year to great critical acclaim.
The aim of the festival is to increase access and visibility of Mexican and Latin American cinema in the U.S., facilitating the exchange of ideas through stories and issues of cultural and social relevance, create a space for collaboration between filmmakers, and strengthen relations between the film industry in Mexico and the U.S.
Ficg in La includes film screenings followed by Q&As with filmmakers and talent, as well as galas and special award recognitions to Latin American and U.S. Latino artists.
“This year, we are truly proud to bring two artistic programs to Ficg in La that supports emerging independent filmmakers, in effect, fulfilling part of our mission to nourish and sustain emerging talent across international film industries. Many of the films in this year's showcase reveal the cross-cultural collaborations currently taking place between film industries in Latin America, the Us, and Canada. These collaborations have resulted in the creation of groundbreaking, authentic, multicultural stories that move seamlessly across national and cultural boundaries." said Hebe Tabachnik, Director and Producer of Ficg in La.
“We are constantly finding ways for Ibero-American filmmakers to promote their films and share their experiences with moviemakers from all over the world. Now that we have reached our fourth year, we realized that we have become one of the leading platforms for Latino cinematography to enter the United States market,” said Iván Trujillo, Festival Director of Ficg.
Among the celebrities that have accompanied us in previous editions are: Carlos Cuarón, Edward James Olmos, Sergio Arau, Diana Bracho, Alfonso Arau, Kate del Castillo, Martha Higareda, Beto Cuevas, Irene Azuela, Dulce Maria, Carmen Salinas and Jay Hernandez.
Oscar nominee Demian Bichir , Nalip (The National Association of Latino Independent Producers), Ruben Luengas (journalist) and Gabriela Teissier (anchor woman) from Univision Radio and TV will receive the festival’s Tree of Life Award for their contributions to Mexican, Latino and Ibero American culture. Previous recipients include Ambulante, Juan Carlos Arciniegas (CNN en Espanol), Fernando Luján (actor), Gabriel Beristain (Director of Photography) and Emilio Kauderer (Music Composer).
Ficg in La continues to support Latino and Ibero-American films with Guadalajara Construye in Los Angeles 1 and DocuLab.1 Los Angeles by selecting six projects from filmmakers seeking post-production funds. The films will be screened for jury members, sponsors and film industry professionals. The winners will be announced on Opening Night.
In addition, the winning projects in each competition will automatically qualify to be considered for Guadalajara Construye 9 or DocuLab.7 Guadalajara, or for the Ibero-American Competitions of the next edition of the Guadalajara International Film Festival (FICG30) – March 6 - 15, 2015.
To reaffirm the social mission of Ficg and the University of Guadalajara Foundation in USA, Ficg in La will donate again all of its proceeds to a charitable cause. We will announce soon the recipient of this year’s fundraising effort.
10 Feature and documentary films and six short films will be showcased in this year’s festival
Opening Night Gala – September 5, 2014
• "The Hours with You" (Las Horas Contigo), Dir. Catalina Aguilar Mastretta, Mexico. Us Premiere
Closing Night Gala – September 7, 2014
• "One for the Road" (En el Ultimo Trago), Dir. Jack Zagha Kababie, Mexico. Us Premiere
Feature Films
• "Echo of the Mountain" (Eco de la Montaña), Dir. Nicolás Echevarría, Mexico. Us Premiere (documentary)
• "Grazing the Sky" (A Ras del Cielo), Dir. Horacio Alcala, Spain/ Mexico/ Portugal. L.A. Premiere (documentary)
• "Ignasi M.," Dir. Ventura Pons, Spain. L.A. Premiere (documentary)
• "Los Ángeles," Dir. Damian John Harper USA/Mexico.
• "The Mute" (El Mudo), Dir. Daniel Vega Vidal & Diego Vega Vidal, Peru. L.A. Premiere
• "Natural Sciences" (Ciencias naturales), Dir. Matías Lucchesi, Argentina.
• "Paraíso," Dir. Mariana Chenillo. Mexico. L.A Premiere
• "A Wolf at the Door" (O Lobo atras da Porta), Dir. Fernando Coimbra, Brazil. L.A. Premiere
Short Films
• "Diego," Dir. Sara Seligman, Mexico/Germany. (live action Drama)
• "A Family Day" (Un día en Familia), Dir. Pedro Zulu González, Mexico. (animation)
• "Minerita," Dir. Raúl de la Fuente, Spain (documentary)
• "Pickman's Model" (El modelo de Pickman), Dir. Pablo Ángeles Zuman, Mexico. Us Premiere (animation)
• "The Queen" (La Reina), Dir. Manuel Abramovich, Argentina (documentary)
• "Yearbook," Dir. Bernardo Britto, USA. (animation)
The screening of the selected work-in-progress films will be for industry accredited to the festival. These screenings are not open to the general public or member of the press.
Guadalajara Construye in Los Angeles 1
• "Blue Lips," Dir. Daniela De Carlo, Julieta Lima, Gustavo Lipsztein, Antonello Novellino, Nacho Ruipérez and Nobu Shima USA/Argentina/ Brazil/ Spain
• "Whisper of the Forest" (Gritos del Bosque), Dir. Jorge Olguín, Chile/USA
• Pocha, Dir. Michael Dwyer, Mexico/USA
DocuLab.1 Los Angeles
• "Gaucho del Norte," Dir. Andres Caballero, Sofia Khan Argentina/USA
• "Hotel de Paso," Dir. Paulina Sánchez Mexico/USA
• "Juanicas," Dir. Karina Garcia Casanova, Mexico/Canada
Ficg in La is presented by the University of Guadalajara Foundation in the United States and Conaculta, and Principal Sponsors, the University of Guadalajara, the Guadalajara International Film Festival, the Institute of Cinema Mexico (Imcine) and Univision, and Supporting Sponsors Cultura Udg, University of Guadalajara Foundation in Los Angeles, LeaLa, Channel 31.2 and the Consulate General of Mexico in Los Angeles.
About Ficg
The Guadalajara International Film Festival was founded by Guillermo del Toro and other Mexican filmmakers in 1986, and will celebrate its 30th edition March 6-15, 2015.
Ficg is the lead film festival in Latin America. It is a forum for the training, education, and creative exchange among industry professionals, film critics, and film students from all over Ibero-America.
About the University of Guadalajara – Mexico
The University of Guadalajara is a member of the University Network in the State of Jalisco, and it is the second oldest university in Mexico. The University of Guadalajara is committed to the betterment of society through higher education. It supports scientific and technological research that makes important contributions to a sustainable and inclusive society, respecting cultural diversity and honoring the principles of social justice, democracy, coexistence, and prosperity for all. The University is renowned in Mexico and abroad as a leader in the transformation of society through innovative means of social development and dissemination of knowledge.
About the Foundation of the University of Guadalajara in the U.S.
The University of Guadalajara Foundation in the United States of America (Udg Foundation-usa) is an extension of Fundación Universidad de Guadalajara, A.C., and is made up of a number of prominent academic and social leaders. The Foundation works to attain private support from individuals, foundations and corporations in order to fulfill the mission and vision of the University of Guadalajara in Los Angeles.
U.S. Udg Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life and social integration of migrants and Hispanic nationals by increasing their access to education and enhancing their sense of belonging and identification with their environment by developing their skills and capabilities through educational services and relevant social research.
The 2014 Ficg in La, which returns to the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood for its fourth year and runs from Thursday, September 4 to Sunday, September 7, brings the best of contemporary Mexican and Latin American cinema to Los Angeles, and is an extension of the Guadalajara International Film Festival.
Featuring outstanding and award-winning titles from FICG29, which ran from March 21-29, 2014 in Guadalajara, Ficg in La will offer the premiere of other titles that have emerged in the world of cinema throughout the year to great critical acclaim.
The aim of the festival is to increase access and visibility of Mexican and Latin American cinema in the U.S., facilitating the exchange of ideas through stories and issues of cultural and social relevance, create a space for collaboration between filmmakers, and strengthen relations between the film industry in Mexico and the U.S.
Ficg in La includes film screenings followed by Q&As with filmmakers and talent, as well as galas and special award recognitions to Latin American and U.S. Latino artists.
“This year, we are truly proud to bring two artistic programs to Ficg in La that supports emerging independent filmmakers, in effect, fulfilling part of our mission to nourish and sustain emerging talent across international film industries. Many of the films in this year's showcase reveal the cross-cultural collaborations currently taking place between film industries in Latin America, the Us, and Canada. These collaborations have resulted in the creation of groundbreaking, authentic, multicultural stories that move seamlessly across national and cultural boundaries." said Hebe Tabachnik, Director and Producer of Ficg in La.
“We are constantly finding ways for Ibero-American filmmakers to promote their films and share their experiences with moviemakers from all over the world. Now that we have reached our fourth year, we realized that we have become one of the leading platforms for Latino cinematography to enter the United States market,” said Iván Trujillo, Festival Director of Ficg.
Among the celebrities that have accompanied us in previous editions are: Carlos Cuarón, Edward James Olmos, Sergio Arau, Diana Bracho, Alfonso Arau, Kate del Castillo, Martha Higareda, Beto Cuevas, Irene Azuela, Dulce Maria, Carmen Salinas and Jay Hernandez.
Oscar nominee Demian Bichir , Nalip (The National Association of Latino Independent Producers), Ruben Luengas (journalist) and Gabriela Teissier (anchor woman) from Univision Radio and TV will receive the festival’s Tree of Life Award for their contributions to Mexican, Latino and Ibero American culture. Previous recipients include Ambulante, Juan Carlos Arciniegas (CNN en Espanol), Fernando Luján (actor), Gabriel Beristain (Director of Photography) and Emilio Kauderer (Music Composer).
Ficg in La continues to support Latino and Ibero-American films with Guadalajara Construye in Los Angeles 1 and DocuLab.1 Los Angeles by selecting six projects from filmmakers seeking post-production funds. The films will be screened for jury members, sponsors and film industry professionals. The winners will be announced on Opening Night.
In addition, the winning projects in each competition will automatically qualify to be considered for Guadalajara Construye 9 or DocuLab.7 Guadalajara, or for the Ibero-American Competitions of the next edition of the Guadalajara International Film Festival (FICG30) – March 6 - 15, 2015.
To reaffirm the social mission of Ficg and the University of Guadalajara Foundation in USA, Ficg in La will donate again all of its proceeds to a charitable cause. We will announce soon the recipient of this year’s fundraising effort.
10 Feature and documentary films and six short films will be showcased in this year’s festival
Opening Night Gala – September 5, 2014
• "The Hours with You" (Las Horas Contigo), Dir. Catalina Aguilar Mastretta, Mexico. Us Premiere
Closing Night Gala – September 7, 2014
• "One for the Road" (En el Ultimo Trago), Dir. Jack Zagha Kababie, Mexico. Us Premiere
Feature Films
• "Echo of the Mountain" (Eco de la Montaña), Dir. Nicolás Echevarría, Mexico. Us Premiere (documentary)
• "Grazing the Sky" (A Ras del Cielo), Dir. Horacio Alcala, Spain/ Mexico/ Portugal. L.A. Premiere (documentary)
• "Ignasi M.," Dir. Ventura Pons, Spain. L.A. Premiere (documentary)
• "Los Ángeles," Dir. Damian John Harper USA/Mexico.
• "The Mute" (El Mudo), Dir. Daniel Vega Vidal & Diego Vega Vidal, Peru. L.A. Premiere
• "Natural Sciences" (Ciencias naturales), Dir. Matías Lucchesi, Argentina.
• "Paraíso," Dir. Mariana Chenillo. Mexico. L.A Premiere
• "A Wolf at the Door" (O Lobo atras da Porta), Dir. Fernando Coimbra, Brazil. L.A. Premiere
Short Films
• "Diego," Dir. Sara Seligman, Mexico/Germany. (live action Drama)
• "A Family Day" (Un día en Familia), Dir. Pedro Zulu González, Mexico. (animation)
• "Minerita," Dir. Raúl de la Fuente, Spain (documentary)
• "Pickman's Model" (El modelo de Pickman), Dir. Pablo Ángeles Zuman, Mexico. Us Premiere (animation)
• "The Queen" (La Reina), Dir. Manuel Abramovich, Argentina (documentary)
• "Yearbook," Dir. Bernardo Britto, USA. (animation)
The screening of the selected work-in-progress films will be for industry accredited to the festival. These screenings are not open to the general public or member of the press.
Guadalajara Construye in Los Angeles 1
• "Blue Lips," Dir. Daniela De Carlo, Julieta Lima, Gustavo Lipsztein, Antonello Novellino, Nacho Ruipérez and Nobu Shima USA/Argentina/ Brazil/ Spain
• "Whisper of the Forest" (Gritos del Bosque), Dir. Jorge Olguín, Chile/USA
• Pocha, Dir. Michael Dwyer, Mexico/USA
DocuLab.1 Los Angeles
• "Gaucho del Norte," Dir. Andres Caballero, Sofia Khan Argentina/USA
• "Hotel de Paso," Dir. Paulina Sánchez Mexico/USA
• "Juanicas," Dir. Karina Garcia Casanova, Mexico/Canada
Ficg in La is presented by the University of Guadalajara Foundation in the United States and Conaculta, and Principal Sponsors, the University of Guadalajara, the Guadalajara International Film Festival, the Institute of Cinema Mexico (Imcine) and Univision, and Supporting Sponsors Cultura Udg, University of Guadalajara Foundation in Los Angeles, LeaLa, Channel 31.2 and the Consulate General of Mexico in Los Angeles.
About Ficg
The Guadalajara International Film Festival was founded by Guillermo del Toro and other Mexican filmmakers in 1986, and will celebrate its 30th edition March 6-15, 2015.
Ficg is the lead film festival in Latin America. It is a forum for the training, education, and creative exchange among industry professionals, film critics, and film students from all over Ibero-America.
About the University of Guadalajara – Mexico
The University of Guadalajara is a member of the University Network in the State of Jalisco, and it is the second oldest university in Mexico. The University of Guadalajara is committed to the betterment of society through higher education. It supports scientific and technological research that makes important contributions to a sustainable and inclusive society, respecting cultural diversity and honoring the principles of social justice, democracy, coexistence, and prosperity for all. The University is renowned in Mexico and abroad as a leader in the transformation of society through innovative means of social development and dissemination of knowledge.
About the Foundation of the University of Guadalajara in the U.S.
The University of Guadalajara Foundation in the United States of America (Udg Foundation-usa) is an extension of Fundación Universidad de Guadalajara, A.C., and is made up of a number of prominent academic and social leaders. The Foundation works to attain private support from individuals, foundations and corporations in order to fulfill the mission and vision of the University of Guadalajara in Los Angeles.
U.S. Udg Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life and social integration of migrants and Hispanic nationals by increasing their access to education and enhancing their sense of belonging and identification with their environment by developing their skills and capabilities through educational services and relevant social research.
- 8/20/2014
- by Carlos Aguilar
- Sydney's Buzz
Director: Luis Estrada Writers: Luis Estrada, Jaime Sampietro Starring: Damián Alcázar, Joaquín Cosio, Ernesto Gómez Cruz, Mauricio Isaac, María Rojo, Elizabeth Cervantes, Salvador Sánchez, Daniel Giménez Cacho, Jorge Zárate, Isela Vega, Kristyan Ferrer, Tenoch Huerta Benny Garcia (Damián Alcázar) moved to greener pastures -- the United States -- back when he was a teenager with hopes of becoming a successful Capitalist. Twenty years later he is deported back to Mexico -- presumably due to the increasingly xenophobic immigration policies in the U.S. Upon his return to his hometown, Bennie quickly discovers that a pair of feuding drug lords have taken over the region; his younger brother (Tenoch Huerta) and several of his closest friends have died as a result. Determined to remain on the straight and narrow, Benny begins working at his godfather's garage; but as soon as Benny falls for a gorgeous prostitute (Elizabeth Cervantes) -- the mother...
- 9/27/2011
- by Don Simpson
- SmellsLikeScreenSpirit
Formerly named the devilish El Infierno or The Hell, Lightning Entertainment has renamed this crime thriller to El Narco, aka The Drug Dealer. Recently completed, El Narco is a real heartwarming story of Benny (Damian Alcazar) and returning to his home town, in Mexico. In reality, his welcome involves gunfire, violence and his partially forced entry into the illicit drug export business. Here, events go from bad to worse and shortly, Benny is on the run from local authorities and into the deep pockets of the local crime lords.
El Narco was recently shown in Cannes 2011 (Lightning) and hopefully, good news will return from this locale, as a North American release date has not been announced so far. For now, watch the comedic, yet sinister hijinks of Benny and his criminal underlings in the exciting reel below.
The synopsis for El Narco is here:
"Drugs, guns, violence, death: Mexico today...
El Narco was recently shown in Cannes 2011 (Lightning) and hopefully, good news will return from this locale, as a North American release date has not been announced so far. For now, watch the comedic, yet sinister hijinks of Benny and his criminal underlings in the exciting reel below.
The synopsis for El Narco is here:
"Drugs, guns, violence, death: Mexico today...
- 5/17/2011
- by Remove28DaysLaterAnalysisThis@gmail.com (Michael Allen)
- 28 Days Later Analysis
El Infierno, Chicogrande, and the other nominations of the 2011 Premio Ariel (Ariel Awards) have been announced. The 53rd Annual Premio Ariel (Ariel Awards) are presented by the Mexican Academy of Cinematographic Arts and Sciences. “The Ariel is the Mexican Academy of Film Award. It has been awarded annually since 1947. The award recognizes excellence in motion picture making, such as acting, directing and screenwriting in Mexican cinema. It is considered the most prestigious award in the Mexican movie industry.” The 53rd Annual Premio Ariel (Ariel Awards) “ceremony will take place on May 7 [, 2011] at the Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City.” The full listing of the 2011 Premio Ariel (Ariel Awards) nominations is below
Best Picture
Abel
Chicogrande
El infierno (Hell)
Best Director
Felipe Cazals, Chicogrande
Luis Estrada, El infierno (Hell)
Diego Luna, Abel
Best Actress
Karina Gidi, Abel
Mónica del Carmen, Año bisiesto (Leap Year)
Maricel Álvarez, Biutiful
Úrsula Pruneda, Las...
Best Picture
Abel
Chicogrande
El infierno (Hell)
Best Director
Felipe Cazals, Chicogrande
Luis Estrada, El infierno (Hell)
Diego Luna, Abel
Best Actress
Karina Gidi, Abel
Mónica del Carmen, Año bisiesto (Leap Year)
Maricel Álvarez, Biutiful
Úrsula Pruneda, Las...
- 3/26/2011
- by filmbook
- Film-Book
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