Radical directed by Christopher Zalla is the winner of this year’s “Audience Award”, and La Bruja by writer/director Manuel Villareal won the Tomorrow’s Filmmakers Today “Audience Award” at the 2023 Hola México Film Festival
Director Christopher Zalla, along with producers Ben Odell and Eugenio Derbez received the most audience votes for the film “Radical.” Eugenio Derbez stars in this uplifting story as Sergio Juarez, a dedicated elementary school teacher who takes a job in a small border town where violence has become normalized. With his whimsical teaching methods and a genuine interest in his students’ well-being, he earns the kids’ trust. The singular educator encourages them not only to think outside the box, but to believe that they can achieve their dreams no matter how far-fetched they may seem. Prepare to be inspired by this unforgettable story based on true events. Winner of the “Festival Favorite” award at the Sundance Film Festival 2023.
“We are so honored to be getting this award from Hola Mexico Film Festival. We truly appreciate Samuel and his team’s support. For us there is no bigger reward than a satisfied audience and we are so excited to get this in US theaters November 3!, “ says Producer Ben Odell.
After receiving the most audience votes, “La Bruja” by writer/director Manuel Villareal took home the festival’s Tomorrow’s Filmmakers Today award for best short entry. On the night of his eighth birthday, Pablito mourns the loss of his Mother. But when his Abuela tells him a fairytale about the mystical Bruja del Mar, he finds unexpected parallels between his own life and her story. Amidst the tale immigration agents raid the neighborhood, endangering Pablito and Abuela. With themes of resilience and love, “La Bruja” highlights the transformative power of storytelling, reminding us that hope can exist even in the darkest moments.
“I’m extraordinarily honored and humbled to have been recognized with this Tomorrow’s Filmmakers Today award for Best Short. La Bruja is a film about family and the power of family. To have found a family within the TFT community is invaluable. Programs and organizations like this are imperative for our gente, because we’re incredibly underrepresented. As an LBGTQ+ Mexican-American, who’s struggled his whole life to be seen, I am so incredibly grateful. Thank you to the Hola Mexico Film Festival for supporting a person like me and help make his dreams a reality, “shares Manuel Villarreal.