The Opening Night Fiesta for the Exitos Del Cine Latino was a fun event with actors, directors, film lovers, sponsors, media, and community members! It was an honor to co-host Opening Night with my friend Luis Cruz, from the San Diego Union-Tribune. There was music by DJ Saul Silva, latin classic guitar entertainment by Giovanni Mejia and Diamante, and scrumptious food! During the brief program we introduced actress Ximena Ayala and director Rafa Lara which were in attendance for the premiere of their movie, El Tamaño Sí Importa, which was screened immediately after the party. Ethan Van Thillo, Executive Director of the San Diego Latino Film Festival which presents Exitos Del Cine Latino, presented a plaque to Westfield Plaza Bonita in appreciation for their presenting sponsorship of the event. We also introduced elected officials and community leaders which joined us to celebrate Opening Night. It was a joyful night with friends, film lovers, supporters of the arts, and wonderful live music!
After the movie, we proceeded a few steps into AMC Cinemas Plaza Bonita to enjoy the premiere of the film El Tamaño Sí Importa. It was a special treat for attendees to be able to have the movie introduced by the actress Ximena Ayala and director Rafa Lara, who flew from Mexico City to attend the premiere!
Exitos del Cine Latino runs through tonight (September 1). You still have an opportunity to catch some of the best Latino films being screened. For movie details and schedules visit Exitos Del Cine Latino.
Stay tuned for news from the 2017 San Diego Latino Film coming in the spring! For more details visit SDLatinoFilmFestival.com
Below are some pictures and video from the party! I look forward to seeing you at the next San Diego Latino Film Festival or community event!
Hugs,
Paola
PS: In case you missed it, this year’s San Diego Latino Film Festival Media Kick-off Party & Celebration of Fashion runway show at San Diego Latino Film Festival.
*Special thanks to Julie Fought and her team at SD Visual Productions for helping me with styling my dress to host the event, to New York & Co. (Westfield Plaza Bonita store) for lending me the dress, and Lisse Xpress salon (at Westfield Plaza Bonita) for doing my hair & make-up!
Video produced by San Diego Latino Film Festival/Media Arts Center staff.