Neither the Challenges and Scourges of 9/11 Nor COVID 19 Nor the 2023 WGA Strike Nor Harbingers of Economic Gloom And So On And So Forth Have Stayed This NYC-Born Impresario From His Designated Mission. The Derring-Do Cannot Be Denied.
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The festival will screen 120 films from 15 countries at Regal Union Square (850 Broadway, NYC), along with a special presentation at United Palace (4140 Broadway, NYC). As part of its milestone festivities, NYLFF will present an encore screening of Girlfight (USA, 110 min., 2000), followed by a post-screening Q&A and full cast reunion.
NYLFF Founder Calixto Chinchilla. Archive Picture from the WORD
In the interview, Calixto Chinchilla reflected on the festival’s long successful history, revealing over a long discussion how it was able to thrive during historically significant nightmares like 9/11 and the COVID-19 pandemic, testing the kind of leadership and adaptability qualities that result in the festival showcasing 120 films this year, highlighting its commitment to creativity and storytelling.
Mr. Chinchilla underscored the importance of presenting diverse narratives that reflect the Latino experience yet its diversity also celebrates Blackness and LGBTQ stories.
He shared insights into the festival’s future initiatives, including the 10th City Tour with pop-up events in various cities and the upcoming Futuro Digital Conference aimed at offering business strategies for people of color. The conversation also touched on the evolving media landscape, with him discussing the shift from linear television to streaming platforms and the implications for the industry.
He emphasized the importance of shared experiences in cinema and the role of film festivals in fostering community engagement.
NYLFF Festival Plans and Marketing Agency Overview
Mr. Cinchilla outlined the schedule for the 10th City Tour scheduled around the country after the festival, mentioning cities such as L.A. and Chicago. He also described his marketing agency’s work in multicultural marketing, emphasizing their success with award-winning projects and the importance of strategic thinking for people of color in business. The agency aims to provide opportunities for creatives and brands alike.
This reviewer expressed his opinions about youth pessimism and skepticism in these conflicted and challenging times and the need for messages of optimism. Reflecting on the challenges of his generation compared to today’s youth, he emphasized the timeless principles of self-discipline and character. He encourages building genuine relationships and maintaining a moral center as vital for personal and professional growth.
Media Industry Challenges and Changes
The reviewer raised questions about what he thought were numerous challenges facing the film-media industry. Mr. Chinchilla elaborated on the trend of consolidation and the shift in viewer preferences, emphasizing that many people no longer watch traditional linear television as frequently. He noted that this change necessitates adaptations within the industry, affecting jobs, budgets, and the number of shows produced. He highlighted the positive trends in the film industry as audiences return to theaters, noting the importance of shared experiences in enhancing the enjoyment of films. He shared personal anecdotes about the energy of watching films in packed theaters, contrasting it with solitary viewing at home. Mr. Cinchilla also mentioned the significance of community engagement and authenticity in film festivals.
He said that he will continue to promote the festival’s diverse programming and ensure it remains inclusive to all audiences. Mr. Chinchilla said he would be launching the Futuro Digital Conference, a free all-day intensive conference focused on social media and business strategies.
Mr. Chinchilla said that the New York festival ends with a block party extraordinaire in Washington Heights, Upper Manhattan, on the 21st, featuring music, food and concerts.
Archival Picture, the WORD
Bio
Founder & Executive Director of NYLFF – Calixto Chinchilla launched the New York Latino Film Festival in 1999 in collaboration with HBO, establishing what would become the nation’s premier Latino film event. (New York Women in Film & Television, amigosmax.com). He has emerged as a thoughtful leader in the Latino film and entertainment industry, recognized for promoting diversity and building culturally rich programming, partnerships, and community initiatives.
Festival Impact & Reach – Under Chinchilla’s leadership, NYLFF has become a vital pipeline for Latino and multicultural talent—on both sides of the camera—supporting and showcasing the careers of filmmakers and artists like John Leguizamo, Gina Rodriguez, Kerry Washington, Marc Anthony, 50 Cent, and Vin Diesel. (New York Women in Film & Television, amigosmax.com) As of recent years, the festival’s reach has spanned over 200,000 participants, reflecting its growth and cultural gravitas.
Other Ventures: FUTURO Digital Conference – In 2017, Chinchilla founded FUTURO, a digital content conference launched in partnership with Google. This platform brings together digital thought leaders, social influencers, brands, and content creators to spotlight digital storytelling and web series.
He’s been named an “One to Watch” by Entrepreneur Magazine and and has been a guest speaker at prestigious institutions such as Columbia University, the Graduate Center at The City College of New York and honored by The Imagen Foundation: 2024 Influential Latinos in Media Honoree.
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