2025 Mexican-American Film and Television Festival & Awards

MAFTF is more than just the premier festival representing the 40 million Americans of Mexican descent; it's a two-day celebration of our culture and artists. It's where Mexican-American and Latino film & television makers come together to interact, collaborate, network, and find like-minded partners. It's a platform where industry leaders connect with authentic storytellers.

On April 26th and 27th, 2025, the Mexican-American Cultural Education Foundation (MACEF), a 501(c)3, will hold its fourth annual Mexican-American Film and Television Festival & Awards.

The Mexican-American Film & Television Festival submission application is for those individuals who want to showcase their work to other film lovers, filmmakers, and important Hollywood Players. Submissions are now closed.  

“As we proudly announce the 2025 edition of the Mexican-American Film and Television Festival, I am reminded of the incredible success of our past three editions. However, I am also aware that despite our shared heritage, filmmakers from Mexico and Chicano/Mexican-American filmmakers have not always collaborated as closely as we should. This year’s festival theme is a call to action – a reminder that by working together, we can amplify our voices, share our stories, and celebrate our rich cultural diversity. I am excited to see the amazing work that will emerge from this collaboration and I invite all filmmakers to join us on this journey.” – Dr. Jose-Luis Ruiz [MACEF Director]

The theme for MAFTF 2025 is “Bridging the Generations By Our Shared Roots: Somos De Aqui Y Somos De Alla," propelling our mission to unify our community. This year, we’re actively working to connect and understand the diverse experiences of first-generation Mexican born filmmakers working in America and the American-born filmmakers, in an effort to promote cooperation! By fostering communication, cultural awareness, and shared identity through their films, we can begin to break down barriers and unify as one people. The phrase “Somos De Aqui Y Somos De Allá,” puts a positive spin on the usually negative feeling that it is to burden to straddle two worlds: the Mexican and the American. The reality is being Mexican-American fosters an opportunity to benefit from two rich cultures, shared experiences, and access to more perspectives that differ from one single culture mindset. We are united, fierce, and resilient. This joyous festival honors the stories of our struggles and triumphs, bridging our experiences across generations and celebrating our shared heritage.

Two locations, one unforgettable experience

For the first time ever, our festival will be expanding to two different locations! Due to the overwhelming number of amazing films submitted, we’ve outgrown just one venue. This expansion allows us to bring our festival to a whole new audience and provide more opportunities for filmmakers to showcase their work.

What’s In Store?

• Triumphant return to our original location (Harmony Gold Theater in Los Angeles, CA), with all the atmosphere our attendees know and love

• The Illustrious Awards will take place Saturday Night April 26th, 2025

• Hispanic-owned second location (Milagro Cinemas in Norwalk, CA) on the second day of the festival April 27th, 2025 will provide for MORE SCREENS for films to be shown!