Inaugural Chicano Hollywood Film Festival Launches in Pomona, CA on July 17–20

POMONA, CA — A bold new platform for Chicano and Latino voices is making its debut as the Chicano Hollywood Film Festival launches July 17–20, 2025, at The Union in Pomona, California. Created as both a cultural celebration and a call to action, the four-day festival arrives amid a surge in ICE raids targeting undocumented farm workers in Southern California — a backdrop that underscores the festival’s mission to uplift stories of identity, resistance, and resilience.

The festival kicks off with The Last Brown Beret, a timely and gripping feature film directed by Del Zamora, adapted from Alfredo Ramos’ book. The film revives the legacy of the Brown Berets, the Chicano Civil Rights group that stood for justice and dignity during the 1960s — a legacy festival organizers say is more relevant than ever.

“This festival isn’t just about watching films—it’s about answering the call,” said Johnny Murillo, founder of Chicano Hollywood. “The Brown Berets stood up for our people. It’s time to do the same—with cameras, stories, and truth.”

The Chicano Hollywood Film Festival will feature over 90 films, including short films, TV pilots, music videos, and digital projects created by emerging Chicano and Latino filmmakers from across the U.S. and Latin America. The lineup explores themes ranging from trauma and healing to gentrification, generational conflict, and cultural pride.

Featured Films Include:

• “Ugly Little Monkeys” – A powerful documentary produced by Enrique Castillo (Montana in American Me), tackling the path from trauma to recovery for the first youth mariachi group in the U.S.
• “Horchata With Oat Milk” – A sharp, culture-clash comedy by Christian “LV” Leyva, serving laughs and commentary on gentrification.
• “A Little Family Drama” – Directed by Nadia Zoe, this emotional dramedy delves into generational tension and family dynamics.
• “Cholita Takes LA” – Directed by Sylvia Ray, the film spotlights a Bolivian Cholita wrestler navigating Chicana identity and empowerment.
• “Lost in the Barrio” – A gritty, heartfelt drama from Alberto Portillo starring Fabian Alamar (Flamin’ Hot), exploring survival and loyalty in the barrio.

Beyond film screenings, attendees will experience live DJ sets, Q&A panels, networking mixers, and the launch of the Chicano Hollywood Academy — a new initiative designed to train the next generation of Latino creatives in acting, directing, producing, and monetizing content.

“This is the first of many,” said Festival Director Francisco Roel. “We’re building a movement where Chicanos and Latinos own their stories, their space, and their future in entertainment.”

Festival Info & Tickets:

To view the full festival schedule and purchase tickets, visit www.ChicanoHollywood.com

About Chicano Hollywood:
Chicano Hollywood is a trailblazing cultural movement and media brand dedicated to empowering Chicano and Latino voices across entertainment. Through film, education, and strategic partnerships, the organization is transforming representation and building a legacy of storytelling that centers the authentic Chicano experience.

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