DIRECTING
My background
As a daughter of Mexican immigrants, born and raised in Southern California, my journey as a storyteller began in the vibrant heart of my multicultural upbringing. From a young age, I found solace and expression in directing, a passion that has only intensified since high school. Over the many years, I’ve sought to fill a crucial gap in the cinematic landscape, bringing forth voices and perspectives often overlooked.
My style
My visual creative style is a cinematic tapestry that intertwines a focus on the human condition with a rich layering of genres. This unique blend allows me to craft narratives that are not only gripping but also deeply emotionally resonant. At the core of my storytelling lies an exploration of the complexities of human resilience, connection, and exploring the power of self-authenticity.
Inspired by the works of others, my style is very much my own, rooted in the tactile moments of my life. Growing up bicultural, as a queer woman, and with my American perspective, I am endlessly curious about the rest of the world and the stories of others. Each frame I compose captures the raw, unfiltered essence of human emotion, meant to be intimate and evocative visual language. By integrating elements from various genres—be it the speculative allure of grounded sci-fi, the heart-pounding excitement of adventure dramas, or the poignant depth of character-driven stories—I aim to push the boundaries of conventional filmmaking. This fusion creates a dynamic and immersive viewing experience that keeps audiences engaged while provoking thought and empathy.
My approach is to use the camera not just as a tool but as a character in itself, guiding the viewer through a visceral journey that reflects the resilience and interconnectedness of our shared human experience. Lighting, color, and composition are deliberately chosen to enhance the narrative, creating a visual symphony that speaks to the audience on multiple levels.
Through this method, I strive to bring forth stories that are not only entertaining but also profoundly moving, resonating with viewers long after the credits roll. My aim is to create films that are not only a feast for the eyes but also a stirring exploration of the human spirit, touching on universal themes that connect us all.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. Together, let’s continue to push the boundaries of storytelling and celebrate the rich tapestry of human experience.
MOVIES THAT INSPIRE ME
Throughout my journey, I have been inspired by a diverse group of directors who have shaped my understanding of cinema. Lee Daniels, with films like Precious and The Butler, brings raw emotion and social commentary to the screen. Gus Van Sant’s works, such as My Own Private Idaho and Good Will Hunting, capture the intricacies of human relationships. Pedro Almodóvar's vibrant and often provocative films like Volver and The Skin I Live In delve deep into the human psyche. Dee Rees, through powerful narratives in Mudbound and Pariah, highlights marginalized voices. Jodie Foster’s direction in The Beaver and Little Man Tate showcases her ability to tell deeply personal stories. Kimberly Peirce’s Boys Don’t Cry and Stop-Loss challenge societal norms and bring intense human experiences to light. Todd Haynes, with films like Carol and Far from Heaven, masterfully explores complex emotional landscapes. Barry Jenkins, with his profound films like Moonlight and If Beale Street Could Talk, captures the beauty and struggle of the human condition. Hayao Miyazaki’s enchanting and whimsical animations, including Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro, transport audiences to fantastical worlds while exploring deep emotional truths. Alfonso Cuarón's visionary works such as Gravity and Roma showcase his unique storytelling and technical prowess. Ridley Scott's expansive and visually stunning films like Blade Runner and The Martian push the boundaries of science fiction and adventure. Kathryn Bigelow's intense and gripping narratives in The Hurt Locker and Zero Dark Thirty explore the complexities of conflict and human resilience.
Some of my favorite films that continue to influence my work include Babel, Empire of the Sun, Kiss Me, Amores Perros, In the Mood for Love, Chinatown, Paradise Road, Real Women Have Curves, Bend It Like Beckham, But I'm a Cheerleader, and Hedwig and the Angry Inch. These films resonate with me for their storytelling, character depth, and the way they capture the human experience.
My directing roots
My journey as a director began in the unlikeliest of places: the halls of my Orange County public high school. In an environment that didn't often embrace subversive creativity, I crafted my first short film—a gender-reversed take on "Scream." This project felt brave and bold, especially within the conservative bounds of my school. I convinced my AP Literature teacher to allow us to create short films instead of writing traditional literary essays for our final project. Leading the charge, I organized a festival and, to my surprise and delight, won Best Director. This early victory was a testament to my self-taught skills and a burgeoning passion for storytelling that would drive me forward.
Fueled by this early success, I took the plunge into documentary filmmaking, funding my own short documentaries in South Africa and Honduras. These experiences were invaluable, teaching me the importance of following my passion and the power of stories that go overlooked. My entrepreneurial spirit led me to start my own online video production company, a testament to my long history of making things happen.
Determined to refine my craft, I applied to the USC School of Cinematic Arts and was thrilled to be accepted into the program. There, I was inspired by films like "Amores Perros," "Hedwig and the Angry Inch," "Fried Green Tomatoes," and "Boys Don't Cry." These movies uncovered stories often left behind, fueling my desire to tell the tales that resonate deeply yet remain untold. During my time at USC, I produced four thesis projects, created four short films, and directed my own thesis film. These projects were my proving ground, where I learned to create compelling worlds on a shoestring budget, often relying on the dedication of student volunteers.
My efforts led to my first professional job at Canana, a Mexico-based production company founded by Diego Luna and Gael García Bernal. As an executive, I found ways to direct, with Diego Luna becoming an ally who supported my ambitions. During my tenure at Canana, I directed short-form content, honing my skills and learning the fundamentals of the industry.
My career continued to evolve as I worked with the César Chávez Foundation, Honda, Wayfarer Studios, and Jarritos. Each opportunity allowed me to learn from seasoned directors both in the U.S. and Mexico, expanding my knowledge and refining my voice.
Today, I am more excited than ever to continue leveling up as a director. With a clearer voice and a wealth of stories yet to be told, I am ready to take on new challenges and continue creating impactful, resonant films.