Iris Almaraz Named Director of L.I.F.E. Film Festival 2022

Why did you get involved in the Latina Independent Film Extravaganza (L.I.F.E.) 2022?

The Latina Independent Film Extravaganza is a very important event to me. I kept feeling like this festival needed to come back. It was such a celebration of sisterhood and filmmaking. I really couldn't look past the whole, that was in place since the festival hasn't been held for years. I feel that this home, this space, that we are creating for Latina Directors helps build a stronger future for our community.

What are you doing as a Festival Director?

As festival Director, I am working on getting the word out. We do not want anyone to miss a chance to be a part of this year's return. I'm also working hard to bring back the vibe that Festival Directors from the past have been instrumental in creating. It is really important to us that we celebrate and lift each other up. To help amplify and recognize the creative and important messages that our community has to offer. The Mission of the Latina Independent Film Extravaganza is to celebrate Latina Directors and their contributions to cinema.

Why is this film festival important?

So often Latina Directors are overlooked because their films lack funds and resources. Other times I have seen Latina Directed films overlooked because they don't fit into a male gaze style of filmmaking. This festival seeks to overcome the obstacles we face day today. This is a celebration of us, by us, for us, and for the community that needs our voices to continue to speak for the marginalized and overlooked!

I encourage everyone to visit https://www.lifefilmfest.org/ and submit their projects. You can find us on Facebook and instagram at @lifefestla. I hope to see you there and celebrate L.I.F.E. on March 18, 2022