Cine Las Americas Hosts CLA2020 Virtual Showcase

AUSTIN, TX — Cine Las Americas International Film Festival (CLAIF), in collaboration with the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center (ESB-MACC) will host the CLA2020 Virtual Showcase presenting 49 films from a dozen countries, celebrating the work of Latinx filmmakers, as well as those of Indigenous heritage. The virtual event will be held Thursday, July 16 - Sunday, July 19 and Thursday, July 23-Sunday, July 26 and will feature compelling works by filmmakers from all backgrounds across 12 different countries.

The 23rd edition of CLAIF had been postponed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, organizers looked for alternative ways to showcase films slated to be featured at the film festival. CLA Executive Director Jean Anne Lauer said, “This presentation of a virtual showcase of films is a testament to the dedication of our staff to find a way forward and continue to foster connections between our Latinx filmmakers as well as those of Indigenous heritage and Texas audiences – even if we can’t do so in person.”

The goal of CLAIF is to promote diversity in film, while celebrating love of cinema with the community. Fellow programmer Alan McLane Alejos added, “Being part of a great festival that stands for stories from the Americas and its Indigenous communities, is one of the reasons to continue programming and showcasing the best films and to support the filmmakers during these uncertain times. The movies that are part of the digital edition keep providing a glimpse of the complex and yet magical world we live in.”

For a list of showcased films and descriptions, click HERE.