The Mexican American Film & Television Festival (MAFTF) will return for its fifth annual edition on April 25–26, 2026, in Los Angeles. The festival brings together filmmakers, television creators, actors, and industry leaders for two days of screenings, workshops, networking, and the Illustrious Awards ceremony honoring excellence in entertainment. With more than 200 submissions this year, the event showcases a lineup of feature films, documentaries, short films, and innovative vertical storytelling projects that reflect the rich diversity of Mexican-American voices in media.
The festival's 2026 theme, "Our Stories Must Be Told To Defy Adversity," emphasizes the role of storytelling in informing, healing, and resisting forces that harm the community, according to Dr. Jose Luis Ruiz, President & Festival Director of MAFTF. More than just a film festival, MAFTF serves as a creative hub where storytellers connect with industry decision-makers, providing a platform for emerging and established filmmakers to collaborate, share ideas, and build lasting partnerships.
MAFTF will present 12 competitive awards recognizing excellence in filmmaking, including Best Feature Film, Best Short Film, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Documentary, and Best Screenplay for Short. The festival will also honor five individuals for their exemplary work in film and television, both in front of and behind the camera. Legendary actor, writer, and director Enrique Castillo will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award for his decades-long career, known for roles in films like El Norte and Blood In Blood Out.
Annie Gonzalez, a Chicana actress, singer, and producer known for roles in Gentefied and Flamin' Hot, will receive the MAFTF Illustrious Award for Outstanding Achievement in Acting. Actress Mishel Prada, best known for her lead role in Starz's VIDA, will be honored with the Illustrious Award for Trailblazer Excellence in Acting. Acclaimed television director Felix Alcala will receive the Trailblazer in Directing Award, while entertainment journalist Naibe Reynoso will be honored with the Excellence in Journalism Award. The festival will also present the Excellence in Community-Minded Media Influence Award to two individuals who have made a meaningful impact through media and community advocacy.
Awards will be presented by a distinguished group of artists and industry leaders, including Linda Yvette Chavez, Diana Luna, Pepe Serna, Gilbert Vasquez, and Moctesuma Esparza. The fifth edition of MAFTF celebrates the achievements of filmmakers whose work reflects the evolving voice and influence of Mexican-American storytelling in the United States. As Latino representation in Hollywood continues to grow, the festival stands as an important platform elevating the voices, talent, and creativity of storytellers shaping the future of film and television. For more information, visit https://www.maftf.org/.
