The 12th Annual Watsonville Film Festival is set to ignite the screen with a powerful selection of films celebrating the diversity and richness of the Latine experience. Presented at CineLux Green Valley Theater from March 7th to 9th, and featuring online screenings from March 11th to 17th, this year’s festival promises an immersive journey into Latine culture through the lens of local, national, and international filmmakers.
Consuelo Alba, the Director of the WFF and an independent filmmaker, underscores the festival’s mission to counter Hollywood’s narrow portrayal of Latine heritage. “We choose films with universal themes told through the lens of Latine filmmakers,” Alba remarks, highlighting the festival’s commitment to authenticity and representation.
Among the festival’s highlights is the screening of “La Mission”, a landmark film directed by Peter Bratt and starring Benjamin Bratt and Erika Alexander. The film portrays the life of a charismatic leader within San Francisco’s Lowrider community, offering a nuanced exploration of identity and community amidst adversity. Peter Bratt, the director, will be honored at the festival on Saturday, March 9th, with a red carpet event and a Q&A session following the screening.
In addition to film screenings, the festival extends its celebration of Latine culture with an art exhibit titled “More Than Cars: Celebrating Lowrider Culture” which was made possible with support from California Humanities, a non-profit partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Co-presented by Pajaro Valley Arts at the Porter Building in downtown Watsonville, the exhibit showcases the artistry and ingenuity of Lowrider culture through artwork, photographs, and memorabilia.
On Sunday, March 10 the “More Than Cars: Celebrating Lowrider Culture” exhibit opens to the public from 1-4pm followed by a cruising event in downtown Watsonville from 4-6pm. At 2pm, the City of Watsonville will present a proclamation to five local Lowrider clubs in recognition of their community service. “More than 50 artists and members of Lowrider car clubs have contributed to the exhibit. We are very excited to showcase this amazing art and history!” says Judy Stabile, Board Treasurer of Pajaro Valley Arts. The celebration will feature live music, food trucks and lots of beautiful Lowrider cars at Pajaro Valley Arts at the Porter Bldg gallery, 280 Main St. in Watsonville. The exhibit’s opening reception on Sunday, March 10th, will be followed by a lowrider cruise and will run through June 30th, featuring public events such as car shows, film screenings and panel discussions.
The Watsonville Film Festival’s dedication to amplifying Latine voices, challenging stereotypes, and fostering cultural pride is evident throughout its diverse program. As Consuelo Alba emphasizes, “As Latine filmmakers, we are reclaiming our stories and our culture, shedding light on the everyday experiences of Latinos in the US.” With its dynamic lineup of films, exhibitions, and events, the 12th Annual Watsonville Film Festival invites audiences to celebrate and explore the richness of Latine storytelling and culture.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Watsonville Film Festival website.
