Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month with These 15 Powerful Films by Hispanic and Latinx Filmmakers
Happy National Hispanic Heritage Month—part two! To go with the A History of Hispanic & Latinx Representation in Film blog post I published to kick off this month's celebration, I wanted to compile a list of 15 great introductory films you can stream (right now!) and watch for NHHM that feature Hispanic and Latinx storytellers. I tried to compile an inclusive list in terms of genres, styles, filmmakers, and ease of streaming platforms, but this list is by no means comprehensive!
Feel free to leave your recommendations for positive representation of Hispanic and Latinx filmmaking in the comments because I'd love to watch them! I believe that one of the best and easiest ways to combat stereotyping and encourage positive, effectual change is by supporting authentic storytellers and their art.
The Ring (1952)
Teenager Tommy Cantanios is tired of being treated like a second-class citizen because he is Mexican-American. When one too many bigots takes a shot at him, Cantanios decides to fight back, finding in the process that he has a gift for boxing. Utilizing his newfound skill, Cantanios becomes a professional boxer with the help of his manager, Pete Ganusa, and trainer, Freddy Jack. However, Cantanios still struggles to find genuine respect as a person.
Director: Kurt Neumann
Screenwriter: Irving Shulman
Starring: Lalo Rios, Gerald Mohr, Rita Moreno & Jack Elam
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Tubi | YouTube
Why It's Essential: The Ring is one of Hollywood's earliest examples of the "social-problem" subgenre, specifically addressing discrimination against Chicanos. Tommy's journey, played by Lalo Rios, reflects the experiences of many Mexican-Americans living in mid-20th century America, making this film an important cultural piece for exploring Latino identity in mainstream cinema. It also features notable performances by Latino actors Rios and Rita Moreno, who were trailblazers in an industry that often overlooked or stereotyped Hispanic talent. "The Ring" provided these actors with the opportunity to portray complex characters at a time when Latino representation was rare.
Additional Viewing: A Medal for Benny (1945) | Salt of the Earth (1954) | Blood In Blood Out (1993)
DYK? The Ring contains actual footage of lightweight boxer Art Aragon in the final boxing match. Despite being Mexican-American, Aragon spent his 16-year boxing career denying his heritage and intentionally portraying himself as a villain to attract larger crowds.
Zoot Suit (1981)
Mexican-American gangster Henry Reyna and others in his group are accused of a murder in which they had no part. They are then rounded up by the police because of their race and their choice of clothing. The gang members are thrown into prison and put through a racist trial. As Henry considers his fate, he has a conversation with El Pachuco, a figure from his own conscience who makes him contemplate a choice between his heritage and his home country.
Director & Screenwriter: Luis Valdez
Starring: Daniel Valdez, Edward James Olmos, Rose Portillo, Charles Aidman, Tyne Daly, John Anderson, Abel Franco, Mike Gomez, Francis X. McCarthy, Alma Martínez, Lupe Ontiveros & Tony Plana
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Peacock
Why It's Essential: Based on the true story of the 1942 Sleepy Lagoon murder trial and the Zoot Suit Riots, where Mexican-American men in Los Angeles were unfairly targeted, harassed, and incarcerated, Zoot Suits highlights the systemic racism faced by Mexican-Americans and other minority communities. It is a powerful representation of Chicano identity, blending historical facts with cultural pride and addressing young Mexican-Americans' struggles. Adapted from Valdez's original play, Zoot Suit blended elements of theater, music, and film together and brought Latino actors, writers, and filmmakers into the spotlight. The film played a role in advancing the careers of other Latino talents in front of and behind the camera, paving the way for future generations of Latino actors and filmmakers.
Additional Viewing: La Bamba (1987) | American Me (1992) | Walkout (2006)
DYK? Zoot Suit received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Motion Picture - Comedy or Musical. In 2019, it was recognized and added to the National Film Preservation Board's National Film Registry for its cultural significance. Following the success of Zoot Suit, director Luis Valdez went on to write and direct La Bamba (1987), a biographical film about the life of Ritchie Valens. This movie marked Lou Diamond Phillips' first starring role and further solidified Valdez's impact on American cinema.
Stand and Deliver (1988)
Los Angeles high school teacher Jaime Escalante is being hassled by tough students like Angel Guzman. But Jaime is also pressured by his bosses, who want him to control his raucous classroom. Caught in the middle, he opts to immerse his students in higher math. After intensive study, his students ace California's calculus test, only to learn that their scores are being questioned. They'll have to retake the exam in order to quiet the critics.
Director: Ramón Menéndez
Screenwriters: Ramón Menéndez & Tom Musca
Starring: Edward James Olmos, Lou Diamond Phillips, Rosanna DeSoto, Andy García & Estelle Harris
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Tubi | YouTube
Why It's Essential: Stand and Deliver is a must-see film because of its powerful portrayal of the transformative potential of education within the Latino community and its celebration of a real-life Latino hero. The movie challenges stereotypes about Latino students, showing them as capable, intelligent, and hardworking, often in contrast to the low expectations of the broader education system. It sheds light on the institutional barriers faced by students of color and immigrants while promoting a message of self-determination, community support, and academic achievement. Edward James Olmos delivered an Oscar-nominated performance and became a role model, not only for his portrayal of Jaime Escalante, a Bolivian-American high school math teacher, but also for Latino actors in Hollywood. The film's success opened doors for better representation of Latinos in film and television.
Additional Viewing: Walkout (2006) | Freedom Writers (2007) | McFarland, USA (2015)
DYK? First-time writer and director Ramón Menéndez and his fellow UCLA Film School graduate, co-writer, and producer Tom Musca acquired the movie rights to Jaime Escalante's story for just one dollar. After the project was turned down by independent studios, the filmmakers funded the production with grants and endowments from institutions, including PBS.
El Mariachi (1992)
El Mariachi is a traveling guitar player with a modest desire to play music for a living. Looking for a job, he stops at a bar in a tiny town, where his simple, peaceful lifestyle is interrupted. Local hit men, expecting enemy assassin Azul to invade their town, believe that the visiting musician is the professional killer they are looking for. Unwittingly embroiled in vicious mob warfare, El Mariachi must shoot his way out of town if he is to survive.
Director & Screenwriter: Robert Rodriguez
Starring: Carlos Gallardo, Consuelo Gómez, Peter Marquardt, Reinol Martínez, Jaime de Hoyos, Edith Gonzalez, Ramiro Gómez, Jesús López Viejo, Luis Baro & Óscar Fabila
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | YouTube
Why It's Essential: El Mariachi (1992) is essential because of its groundbreaking significance in Latino filmmaking and its impact on independent cinema. Even though it was originally made for Spanish-speaking audiences in Mexico, it gained acclaim and success in the U.S. (winning the Audience Award at Sundance) and made its mark in mainstream American cinema. The film's success broke down barriers for filmmakers, proving that high-quality films could be made with limited resources. Rodriguez's achievement inspired many aspiring Latino directors and helped bring more diversity to Hollywood by showcasing Latino talent behind the camera.
Additional Viewing: Desperado (1995) | Once Upon a Time in Mexico (2003) | Sin Nombre (2009)
DYK? El Mariachi holds the Guinness World Record for being the lowest-budget film to earn $1 million at the U.S. box office. The film had a production budget of only $7,000 and was self-financed and self-produced. After Columbia Pictures picked it up for distribution, it went on to make a total of $2,041,928 in cinemas worldwide.
![Theatrical poster of Gregory Nava's My Family [Mi Familia] (1995)](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4fa0cc_bd78661e6a55422c97d1858814bd6734~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_147,h_222,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/4fa0cc_bd78661e6a55422c97d1858814bd6734~mv2.jpg)
My Family [Mi Familia] (1995)
A second-generation Mexican immigrant narrates his family history, beginning with the journey of his father, Jose, across Mexico to Los Angeles where he meets Maria and starts a family. Each subsequent generation contends with political and social hardships, ranging from illegal deportations in the 1940s to racial tensions and gang fights in the '60s and '70s. Yet through it all, or perhaps because of it, the family remains strong.
Director: Gregory Nava
Screenwriters: Gregory Nava & Anna Thomas
Starring: Jimmy Smits, Esai Morales, Edward James Olmos, Eduardo Lopez Rojas, Jenny Gago, Elpidia Carrillo, Lupe Ontiveros, Jacob Vargas, Jennifer Lopez & Maria Canals-Barrera
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | YouTube
Why It's Essential: Directed by Gregory Nava, a pioneering Latino filmmaker known for his work on immigration and cultural identity, My Family broke ground by telling a story that authentically portrayed Mexican-American characters as complex, multi-dimensional people with a rich cultural history. The film avoids stereotypes and instead shows the nuanced characters in an uplifting way, dealing with issues like racism, identity, and economic challenges. This was rare in Hollywood at the time and was a major step forward for Latino representation in mainstream cinema. The film also features a talented ensemble of Latino actors, including Edward James Olmos, Jimmy Smits, Esai Morales, and Jennifer Lopez (in one of her early roles). Their performances brought visibility to Latino talent and helped pave the way for greater opportunities for Latino actors in Hollywood.
Additional Viewing: El Norte (1983) | A Better Life (2011) | Under the Same Moon [La Misma Luna] (2007)
DYK? Constance Marie and Valente Rodriguez would later work together again on the ABC sitcom George Lopez from 2002 to 2007.
Selena (1997)
In this biographical drama, Selena Quintanilla is born into a musical Mexican-American family in Texas. Her father, Abraham, realizes that his young daughter is talented and begins performing with her at small venues. She finds success and falls for her guitarist, Chris Perez, who draws the ire of her father. Seeking mainstream stardom, Selena begins recording an English-language album that, tragically, she would never complete.
Director & Screenwriter: Gregory Nava
Starring: Jennifer Lopez, Edward James Olmos, Jon Seda, Constance Marie, Jacob Vargas, Lupe Ontiveros & Jackie Guerra
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Tubi | YouTube
Why It's Essential: Selena tells the story of Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, the beloved Tejano singer who broke cultural and music industry barriers to become a superstar. The film honors her life and legacy as a symbol of pride for the Latino community, particularly Mexican-Americans, by highlighting her contributions to music, fashion, and representation. The movie shows the difficulties of being a Mexican-American artist dealing with two cultures, emphasizing the challenges of having a bicultural identity. The film portrays Selena's journey from her Mexican roots to achieving success in the U.S., highlighting the challenges many Mexican-Americans face in balancing their heritage with the desire to succeed in a mostly non-Latino industry. However, at its core, Selena is about family. It focuses on Selena's close-knit family and their crucial role in her career, led by her father, Abraham (played by Edward James Olmos). The film celebrates how Selena's family supported her dreams while overcoming systemic obstacles and hardships.
Additional Viewing: Frida (2002) | Dolores (2017) | Selena: The Series (2020–2021)
DYK? The production used approximately 64,000 fans and extras, with 35,000 used to recreate the Houston Astrodome concert scene. Fans were compensated for their time with coupons for free Coke products.
And Your Mother, Too [Y tu mamá también] (2001)
The lives of Julio and Tenoch, like those of 17-year-old boys everywhere, are ruled by raging hormones, intense friendships, and a headlong rush into adulthood. Over the course of a summer, the two best friends, while living out a carefree cross-country escapade with a gorgeous older woman, also find connection with each other, themselves, and the world around them.
Director: Alfonso Cuarón
Screenwriters: Carlos Cuarón & Alfonso Cuarón
Starring: Maribel Verdú, Gael García Bernal & Diego Luna
Where to Watch: Amazon | Amazon Prime Video
Why It's Essential: Y tu mamá también, directed by Alfonso Cuarón, follows two young men, Julio (played by García Bernal) and Tenoch (played by Luna), who go on a road trip with an older woman named Luisa (played by Verdú). Throughout the journey, the characters experience moments of self-discovery and come to terms with the realities of life. The film delves into themes of youth, sexuality, friendship, and personal growth within the backdrop of Mexican society. It offers a unique glimpse into contemporary Mexican life, culture, and social inequality, juxtaposing the carefree lives of its protagonists with the harsher realities rural communities face. Despite its Mexican focus, the film's themes are universal, resonating with audiences worldwide.
Additional Viewing: Amores Perros (2000) | The Motorcycle Diaries (2004) | Roma (2018)
DYK? Diego Luna and Gael García Bernal are best friends in real life. They have known each other since birth, as their parents worked together on a theatre production in Mexico at the time of their births. The two actors also acted together as children.
Real Women Have Curves (2002)
In East Los Angeles, 18-year-old Ana Garcia struggles between her ambitions of going to college and the desires of her overbearing mother for her to get married, have children, and oversee the small, rundown family-owned textile factory.
Director: Patricia Cardoso
Screenwriters: George LaVoo & Josefina Lopez
Starring: America Ferrera, Lupe Ontiveros, Jorge Cervera Jr., Ingrid Oliu, George Lopez, Brian Sites, Soledad St. Hilaire, Lourdes Pérez, Josefina Lopez, José Gerardo Zamora Jr., Manuel Edgar Luján & Erica Moller
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | HBO Max | Hulu
Why It's Essential: Real Women Have Curves (2002) highlights the complexities of identity, body image, and the immigrant experience through the lens of a young Mexican-American woman. Centered on Ana (played by America Ferrera), a first-generation Mexican-American teenager, she is caught between the expectations of her traditional family and her own desire for independence and self-acceptance. The film tackles issues of body image and societal pressures on women to conform to unrealistic beauty standards. Ana's journey toward embracing her own body and rejecting her mother's (played by Lupe Ontiveros) constant criticisms is a powerful feminist message of self-love and empowerment, particularly for young women and young Latinas.
Additional Viewing: Spanglish (2004) | Mosquita y Mari (2012)
DYK? In 2019, the Library of Congress chose Real Women Have Curves for preservation in the National Film Registry, recognizing it as "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant."
Pan's Labyrinth [El laberinto del fauno] (2006)
It's 1944 and the Allies have invaded Nazi-held Europe. In Spain, a troop of soldiers are sent to a remote forest to flush out the rebels. They are led by Capitan Vidal, a murdering sadist, and with him are his new wife Carmen and her daughter from a previous marriage, 11-year-old Ofelia. Ofelia witnesses her stepfather's sadistic brutality and is drawn into Pan's Labyrinth, a magical world of mythical beings.
Director & Screenwriter: Guillermo del Toro
Starring: Ivana Baquero, Sergi López, Maribel Verdú, Doug Jones, Ariadna Gil, Álex Angulo, Manolo Solo, César Vea, Roger Casamajor, Federico Luppi & Pablo Adán
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Tubi
Why It's Essential: Pan's Labyrinth is a visually stunning film that explores themes of resistance against tyranny and rebellion against oppressive regimes. While these themes are universal, the movie specifically reflects the struggles many Latin American countries have faced with political oppression and dictatorship—in this case, Francisco Franco's fascist regime. Guillermo del Toro's film contrasts the harshness of war-torn reality with the magical world that the protagonist, Ofelia (played by Ivana Baquero), escapes into. The film demonstrates the power of storytelling as a way to cope with trauma, preserve cultural memory, and imagine alternate realities. By blending folklore, mythology, and history, the film becomes a culturally resonant work that celebrates fantasy as a form of cultural expression deeply rooted in Hispanic and Latin American storytelling traditions.
Additional Viewing: The Spirit of the Beehive (1973) | The Devil's Backbone (2001) | Tigers Are Not Afraid (2017)
DYK? Guillermo del Toro wanted Doug Jones to play the Faun and the Pale Man in Pan's Labyrinth because they had worked together before on Mimic (1997) and Hellboy (2004). In an email to Jones, del Toro tried persuading him, writing: "You must be in this film. No one else can play this part but you." Jones was initially excited about the English script translation but became "terrified" when he discovered that the film was in Spanish, a language he did not speak. Del Toro suggested that Jones learn the script phonetically, but Jones spent five hours a day in the makeup chair practicing his lines. Although del Toro later had theater actor Pablo Adán dub over Jones' performance, Jones' proper pronunciation made it easier for Adán to match his delivery.
![Theatrical poster of Icíar Bollaín's Even the Rain [También la lluvia] (2010)](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4fa0cc_00c8e8754c6c4dfd960828e3318f91e8~mv2.jpeg/v1/fill/w_94,h_138,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/4fa0cc_00c8e8754c6c4dfd960828e3318f91e8~mv2.jpeg)
Even the Rain [También la lluvia] (2010)
Mexican filmmakers Sebastian and Costa, shooting a film in Bolivia about the conquest by Christopher Columbus, become embroiled in controversy when their film schedule runs up against the Cochabamba protests. With local natives rising against the privatization of their water supply. As more and more problems beset the production and the riots escalate, the tension increases between the crew members.
Director: Icíar Bollaín
Screenwriter: Paul Laverty
Starring: Luis Tosar, Gael García Bernal, Juan Carlos Aduviri, Karra Elejalde, Raúl Arévalo, Carlos Santos, Cassandra Ciangherotti, Milena Soliz & Leónidas Chiri
Where to Watch: Netflix
Why It's Essential: Icíar Bollaín's Even the Rain is a captivating and thought-provoking film that delves into the complex and intertwined issues of colonialism, exploitation, and indigenous rights. The movie offers a powerful exploration of these themes, shedding light on their profound relevance to the history of Latin America and the lived experiences of its people. Through its unique blend of historical reflection and contemporary socio-political critique, Even the Rain stands out as a compelling work of cinema that offers valuable insights into the enduring impacts of colonization and the resilience of those who resist it.
Additional Viewing: The Battle of Chile (1975-1979) | The Mission (1986) | The Secret in Their Eyes (2009)
DYK? The film Even the Rain pays tribute to the legacy of Howard Zinn, a renowned activist, historian, and author best known for his influential work, The People's History of The United States (1980).
The Book of Life (2014)
In the Mexican town of San Angel, Manolo, Maria, and Joaquin have been friends ever since childhood. Although their lives have taken different paths—Maria was sent to Europe, Joaquin joined the military, and Manolo studied to become a bullfighter—one thing remains the same: Manolo and Joaquin both want to marry Maria. Little does the trio know that battling husband-and-wife deities have made a high-stakes wager on the love triangle's outcome.
Director: Jorge R. Gutiérrez
Screenwriters: Jorge R. Gutierrez & Doug Langdale
Starring: Diego Luna, Zoe Saldana, Channing Tatum, Christina Applegate, Ice Cube, Ron Perlman, Kate del Castillo, Héctor Elizondo, Ana de la Reguera, Danny Trejo, Grey Griffin & Carlos Alazraqui
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Disney+ | YouTube
Why It's Essential: Jorge R. Gutiérrez'sThe Book of Life beautifully celebrates Mexican culture, particularly the traditions surrounding Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), while exploring universal themes of love, family, and identity. The film's vibrant animation, rich storytelling, and representation of Mexican folklore make it a vital piece of media that contributes to the broader recognition of Hispanic heritage. The Book of Life is a joyful and heartfelt celebration of Mexican culture that resonates on multiple levels, from its portrayal of folk traditions to its universal themes of love and identity.
Additional Viewing: The Road to El Dorado (2000) | Coco (2017) | Maya and the Three (2021)
DYK? The distinctive swirl in Manolo's hair is a deliberate homage to the iconic swirled hill seen in The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993), one of director Jorge R. Gutiérrez's favorite films.
McFarland, USA (2015)
Track coach Jim White is a newcomer to a predominantly Latino high school in California's Central Valley. Coach White and his new students have much to learn about one another, but things begin to change when White realizes the boys' exceptional running ability. More than just physical prowess drives the teens to succeed; their strong family ties, incredible work ethic, and commitment to their team all play a factor in forging these novice runners into champions.
Director: Niki Caro
Screenwriters: Christopher Cleveland, Bettina Gilois & Grant Thompson
Starring: Kevin Costner, Maria Bello, Carlos Pratts, Johnny Ortiz, Hector Duran, Sergio Avelar, Michael Aguero, Rafael Martinez, Ramiro Rodriguez, Morgan Saylor & Elsie Fisher
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Disney+ | YouTube
Why It's Essential: McFarland, USA highlights the perseverance, dedication, and strong sense of community within the Latinx community, particularly Mexican-American farmworkers in rural California. The film tells the inspiring true story of a high school cross-country team from McFarland, a predominantly Latino town, and their coach, Jim White (Kevin Costner), as they overcome immense obstacles to become champions. However, the movie isn't just about athletic success but also bridging cultural divides and fostering mutual respect. McFarland, USA emphasizes how understanding, respect, and unity can transcend cultural differences.
Additional Viewing: East Los High (2013-2017) | Spare Parts (2015)
DYK? In real life, Coach Jim White retired in 2003 after twenty-three years of coaching.
La Llorona (2019)
Alma is murdered with her children during a military attack in Guatemala, but 30 years later when former general Enrique Monteverde, who ordered the genocide, is found not guilty based on a technicality, Alma returns to the world of the living to torment the man.
Director: Jayro Bustamante
Screenwriters: Jayro Bustamante & Lisandro Sanchez
Starring: María Mercedes Coroy, Sabrina De La Hoz, Margarita Kenéfic, Julio Diaz, María Telón as Valeriana, Juan Pablo Olyslager & Ayla-Elea Hurtado
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Fandango at Home | The Roku Channel
Why It's Essential: Jayro Bustamante's La Llorona draws on one of the most well-known Latin American legends but elevates the tale by giving it a socio-political dimension. The film uses the myth of "The Weeping Woman," traditionally a story of a ghost who haunts those who wronged her, as a vehicle to explore the horrors of genocide and the struggles of indigenous people in Guatemala. The film's story revolves around a former Guatemalan dictator, General Enrique Monteverde (a character based on real-life dictator Efraín Ríos Montt), who is haunted by the spirits of his victims after being acquitted of war crimes. La Llorona serves as a reminder of the need for truth, reconciliation, and accountability in the aftermath of violence and oppression, making it a relevant and poignant exploration of historical injustices, Indigenous experiences, and the need for collective memory.
Additional Viewing: The Other Side of Immigration (2009) | Ixcanul (2015) | The Silence of Others (2018)
DYK? La Llorona was the first Guatemalan film nominated for a Golden Globe in the Best Foreign Language Film category. It was also Guatemala's official submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 93rd Academy Awards in 2021.
Mucho Mucho Mucho Amor: The Legend of Walter Mercado (2020)
Once the world's most famous astrologer, Walter Mercado seeks to resurrect a forgotten legacy. Raised in the sugar cane fields of Puerto Rico, Walter grew up to become a gender non-conforming, cape-wearing psychic whose televised horoscopes reached 120 million Latinx viewers a day for 30 years before he mysteriously disappeared.
Directors: Cristina Constantini & Kareem Tabsch
Featuring: Walter Mercado
Where to Watch: Netflix
Why It's Essential: Mucho Mucho Mucho Amor: The Legend of Walter Mercado celebrates one of the most beloved and influential figures in Latinx culture, Walter Mercado, a Puerto Rican astrologer whose charisma, optimism, and spirituality transcended generations. The documentary honors his life, legacy, and lasting impact on Latinx communities worldwide. At the heart of Mucho Mucho Mucho Amor is Walter Mercado's philosophy of love and kindness, which he shared with millions. His message of "mucho, mucho amor" (lots and lots of love) was a comforting constant in the lives of many Latinx people. The documentary reinforces this message of love and acceptance, making it an uplifting and inspirational watch.
Additional Viewing: Siempre, Luis (2020) | Vivir Mi Vida: Celia Cruz (2020) | Rita Moreno: Just a Girl Who Decided to Go for It (2021)
DYK? In January 2019, Lin-Manuel Miranda posted a photo of himself with Mercado on his social media accounts. Many long-time Walter Mercado fans were surprised to learn he was still alive, even after years out of the public eye.
Encanto (2021)
The Madrigals are an extraordinary family who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia in a charmed place called the Encanto. The magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift—every child except Mirabel. However, she soon may be the Madrigals' last hope when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is now in danger.
Directors: Byron Howard, Jared Bush & Charise Castro Smith
Screenwriters: Charise Castro Smith & Jared Bush
Cast: Stephanie Beatriz, María Cecilia Botero, John Leguizamo, Mauro Castillo, Jessica Darrow, Angie Cepeda, Carolina Gaitán, Diane Guerrero, Wilmer Valderrama, Ravi Cabot-Conyers & Maluma
Where to Watch: Disney+
Why It's Essential: Disney's Encanto celebrates Colombian culture, Latinx identity, and the importance of family and community. The film's compelling storytelling, vibrant visuals, and emotional depth pay homage to Hispanic heritage while highlighting universal themes such as self-worth, intergenerational dynamics, and the pressures of family expectations. What sets Encanto apart in Hispanic and Latinx filmmaking is its excellent portrayal of diverse Latinx characters, including a range of skin tones, hair textures, and body types. This inclusivity reflects the diversity within the Latin American diaspora and helps break down stereotypical depictions of Latinx characters in media. By focusing on a strong, multi-dimensional female protagonist (Mirabel, played by Stephanie Beatriz) who is defined by her compassion and perseverance rather than typical hero traits, the film encourages viewers, especially young audiences, to embrace their uniqueness and potential.
Additional Viewing: Living Is Easy with Eyes Closed [Vivir Es Fácil Con Los Ojos Cerrados] (2013) | Vivo (2021) | In the Heights (2021)
DYK? Bruno (played by John Leguizamo) was initially named 'Oscar,' but his name was changed to better fit the song lyrics, "We don't talk about Bruno-no-no-no-no." A legal snag over several real-life Oscar Madrigals also led the filmmakers to change it.
Thanks for taking the time to read and celebrate Hispanic and Latinx filmmakers. I hope that one (or more!) of the movies highlighted on this list ends up on your watchlist soon. Don't forget to share your favorite Hispanic and Latinx filmmakers and their films in the comment section below, and let's keep supporting and promoting diversity in cinema together.