¡Tú Cuentas! Cine Youth Fest is now accepting entries for its fourth annual event, spotlighting the talent, innovative narratives, and artistic vision of up-and-coming Latino/a filmmakers. Entries will be accepted via CineYouthFest.org through August 6, 2024, with an early bird discount available until June 4, 2024. The festival will occur from October 9 to October 16, 2024, closing Hispanic Heritage Month.
Since 2021, HITN’s annual film festival has amplified the voices of up-and-coming Latino/a storytellers, artists, and filmmakers. Despite Latinos accounting for 24 percent of film ticket sales and 29 percent of daily mobile TV viewers, they hold less than 5 percent of leading on-screen, off-screen, and executive leadership roles in US media. This festival unlocks avenues for young creatives to gain exposure and acknowledgment, addressing the ongoing challenges of underrepresentation faced by Latino/a perspectives within the film and entertainment sphere.
“Each year, we eagerly anticipate the wide range of films submitted to our festival. From animated and documentary to narrative short films, the works submitted by this next generation of filmmakers is a breath of fresh air, delivering diverse perspectives and innovative narratives that captivate and inspire audiences,” said Cynthia Rivera, ¡Tú Cuentas! Cine Youth Fest Co-Director. “Our dedication to fostering representation within the entertainment industry is the driving force behind the work that we do. This is borne out by the fact that 60% of the finalists last year were talented young Latina filmmakers.”
For four years, the festival’s “Cafecito” chats have evolved as invaluable educational and networking platforms for our social media followers. Once again, this year, the sessions will feature industry experts and professionals who generously share their stories and insights, offering invaluable guidance to emerging filmmakers in the industry. Stay tuned for announcements about upcoming events, which will be posted on CineYouthFest.org and the festival’s Instagram page.
English or Spanish-language works of fiction or nonfiction are welcome.