New York Latino Film Festival Celebrates 25th Anniversary with Expanded Programming and Industry Recognition

The New York Latino Film Festival (NYLFF) will celebrate its 25th anniversary from September 13-21, 2025, with an extensive showcase of film, music, and cultural programming. The festival will screen 120 films from 15 countries at Regal Union Square and United Palace theaters in New York City, representing the largest and most diverse lineup in its history.

This milestone anniversary features significant programming highlights including the opening night presentation of Sundance Award-winning film Mad Bills to Pay directed by Joel Vargas, and an encore screening of Karyn Kusama's groundbreaking film Girlfight followed by a full cast reunion. Michelle Rodriguez, who made her screen debut in Girlfight and won multiple awards for her performance, will receive NYLFF's Impact Award in recognition of her influential legacy and representation of Latinos in film.

The festival's expansion reflects the growing importance of Latino storytelling in the entertainment industry. Warner Bros. Discovery returns as presenting sponsor, having been the founding sponsor since the festival's inception in 1999. Dennis Williams, SVP and Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at Warner Bros. Discovery, emphasized the company's commitment to celebrating Latino filmmaking, stating their pride in supporting the festival's mission since its beginning.

Additional programming includes the special screening of Dominican action drama A Tiro Limpio at United Palace, featuring executive producer Celinés Toribio, and the musical documentary La Salsa Vive, supported by Warner Bros. Discovery's OneFifty and NYLFF Cinematics. The festival will culminate with a free block party in Quisqueya Plaza featuring live performances, including by Latin Grammy nominee J Noa.

The impact of NYLFF extends beyond entertainment, serving as a platform for cultural representation and industry development. The festival's official website provides comprehensive information about the programming and ticketing. Commissioner of the NYC Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment, Pat Swinney Kaufman, highlighted the festival's role in celebrating Latino Heritage Month and its importance to New York City's cultural landscape.

Founder Calixto Chinchilla emphasized the personal significance of this milestone, noting that the festival has consistently worked to create space where Latino voices are seen, heard, and valued. The 25th anniversary lineup represents the most ambitious programming to date, featuring works from emerging and established Latino filmmakers across multiple genres and formats.

The FUTURO Digital Conference, presented by Audible and Liberty Coca-Cola Beverages, returns with a day-long forum spotlighting content creators, distributors, and technology leaders targeting the Latino market. This educational component underscores the festival's commitment to industry development and professional growth within the Latino creative community.

With support from major industry partners including Comcast NBCUniversal Telemundo, AARP, and the Motion Picture Association, NYLFF continues to strengthen its position as the nation's premier Latino cinematic event. The festival's longevity and expanding influence demonstrate the increasing recognition of Latino stories and creators within the global entertainment industry, making this anniversary celebration particularly significant for cultural representation and artistic achievement.