The Mexican American Film & Television Festival (MAFTF) will hold its fifth annual edition on April 25–26, 2026, in Los Angeles, featuring screenings, workshops, networking, and awards. The festival, which received more than 200 submissions this year, presents a lineup of feature films, documentaries, short films, and vertical storytelling projects that highlight the diversity of Mexican-American narratives. According to Dr. Jose Luis Ruiz, President and Festival Director of MAFTF, the 2026 theme, "Our Stories Must Be Told To Defy Adversity," underscores how storytelling can inform, heal, and resist forces harming the community.
Beyond screenings, MAFTF functions as a creative hub where filmmakers connect with industry decision-makers, providing a platform for emerging and established talent to collaborate and build partnerships. The festival will award 12 competitive prizes, including Best Feature Film, Best Short Film, Best Director, and Best Screenplay for Short. Special honors will recognize five individuals for exemplary contributions to film and television. Legendary actor, writer, and director Enrique Castillo will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award for his career spanning theater, film, and television, with notable roles in El Norte, Blood In Blood Out, and Weeds.
Actress Annie Gonzalez, known for roles in Gentefied and Flamin’ Hot, will be honored with the Illustrious Award for Outstanding Achievement in Acting. Actress Mishel Prada, recognized for her lead role in Starz’s VIDA, will receive the Illustrious Award for Trailblazer Excellence in Acting. Acclaimed television director Felix Alcala, director of series like Lone Star and 911, will be awarded the Trailblazer in Directing Award. Entertainment journalist Naibe Reynoso will receive the Excellence in Journalism Award, while the Excellence in Community-Minded Media Influence Award will honor two individuals for advocacy through media.
Awards will be presented by industry leaders including writer/director/producer Linda Yvette Chavez, NALIP Executive Director Diana Luna, and actor/producer Pepe Serna. The festival underscores the growing influence of Latino representation in Hollywood, positioning MAFTF as a vital platform for elevating voices that shape the future of film and television. For additional details, visit https://www.maftf.org/.
