One of Austin’s longest running film festivals is back with another packed week of international cinema, filmmaker conversations, music showcases, and community events spread across the city.
Cine Las Americas International Film Festival has officially revealed the full programming lineup for its 28th annual festival, running May 13 through May 17 at venues including Austin Film Society Cinema, Violet Crown Cinema, and additional locations around Austin.
Known for spotlighting Latinx, Indigenous, and Latin American storytelling, the festival continues its mission of bringing underrepresented voices to the forefront while connecting Austin audiences with filmmakers from around the world.
This year’s lineup includes appearances from Lou Diamond Phillips, Sonia Manzano, producer Elizabeth Avellán, and actress and producer Marta Méndez Cross.
Opening night kicks off May 13 with the festival’s official red carpet event at AFS Cinema ahead of American Pachuco: The Legend of Luis Valdez from director David Alvarado. Following the screening, attendees can expect a reception and Q&A featuring Alvarado and Daniel “Danny” Valdez.
One of the standout events arrives Thursday night with a screening of Street Smart: Lessons from a TV Icon, followed by a conversation with Sonia Manzano, best known to generations of viewers as Maria from Sesame Street. Honestly, if you grew up with PBS on in the background while eating cereal before school, this one probably hits a little harder than expected.
The festival’s annual Music Video Showcase returns Friday at Lustre Pearl East, curated this year by Latin Grammy nominated Austin artist Gina Chavez. The free event blends music videos, DJs, and live community energy in a way that feels very specifically Austin in the best possible sense.
Saturday’s programming includes the return of the CLAIFF Conference at Holiday Inn Midtown, featuring panels focused on filmmaking, fundraising, mental health, and activism. Marta Méndez Cross will also headline a keynote conversation discussing her work and career in independent cinema.
Later that evening, Keep Quiet screens at AFS Cinema followed by a live Q&A with director Vincent Grashaw and Lou Diamond Phillips, moderated by Elizabeth Avellán. The night continues with a special 35mm screening of La Bamba, honoring filmmaker Luis Valdez. Seeing La Bamba on film in a theater feels like exactly the kind of movie experience Austin film crowds still show up for.
Closing night on May 17 features the Hecho en Tejas showcase highlighting Texas filmmakers, followed by the festival awards ceremony and reception at Lima Criolla.
The festival will also host several free screenings throughout the week, along with discounted pricing for students.
Badges and individual tickets are available now.
About The Author
