11:15AM - 12:15AM

Join Erik Gonzalez, Cristina Nava, Harmon Kaslow, and Patrick Perez for an essential deep dive into the business of independent cinema. This panel deconstructs the complexities of modern film finance and distribution, offering indie filmmakers a practical roadmap for securing "greenlight" capital and navigating the path to a global audience. These experts share the "insider" strategies needed to turn a creative vision into a viable reality.

12:45PM - 1:45PM

Dive into the high-growth frontier of "social-first" cinema with Derek Szempruch, Johnny Murrillo, Robert Diaz Leroy, and Tim Hoffman. This panel explores the lucrative shift toward vertical filmmaking, deconstructing how indie creators can monetize 9:16 content. Designed for filmmakers ready to pivot, this session provides the technical and financial blueprint for turning vertical storytelling into a sustainable, scalable revenue engine.

1:50PM - 3:50PM

By providing live, constructive criticism on submitted films, the judges will pinpoint the subtle adjustments in pacing, performance, and narrative arc that elevate a project from an indie effort to a festival-ready masterpiece. This panel is a rare opportunity for filmmakers to see their work through a professional lens and learn the precise technical and creative refinements needed to captivate audiences and distributors alike. Led by Judges Dr. Jose-Luis Ruiz, Robert Diaz Leroy, and Alfredo Widman.

3:55PM - 4:55PM

Learn how to maximize every dollar without sacrificing quality in this deep dive into ultra-low-budget SAG-AFTRA filmmaking. Panelists Dr. Jose-Luis Ruiz, Alfredo Widman, Christian Rodrigo, and Bel Hernandez share strategies for navigating union contracts, securing high-caliber talent on a micro-budget, and building a marketing buzz from day one of production. This session is a masterclass for indie creators on how to balance professional standards with lean resources to get a project cast, shot, and noticed.

5:15PM - 6:00PM

We are honored to host an intimate conversation with the legendary Enrique Castillo. The multi-talented actor, writer, and director will join us to reflect on his storied career and profound impact on American cinema. This special session culminates in a historic moment as Castillo receives the Lifetime Achievement Award at the MAFTF Awards, celebrating a legacy of artistic excellence and his unwavering commitment to authentic storytelling.

PRODUCER

ACTOR, WRITER, & DIRECTOR

DIRECTOR & FESTIVAL JUDGE

FOUNDER OF CHICANO HOLLYWOOD

FOUNDER OF LATIN HEAT ENTERTAINMENT

FOUNDER OF MAFTF & DIRECTOR

DIRECTOR OF DOMESTIC MARKETING AND DISTRUBTION AT HIGHLAND FILM GROUP

AWARD WINNING SCREENWRITER, DIRECTOR, & PRODUCER OF INDEPENDENT FILMS

DIRECTOR, PRODUCER, & EDITOR

CASTING DIRECTOR