4th February, 2012
Now in its seventh year, the DLA Latin American Film Festival remains committed to creating a permanent space in London for Latin American cinema, and to bringing a selection of the best of recent feature films, documentary and short films from across the whole of the region.
In addition, this year, thanks to the support of Film London, we are taking the festival into new areas and to new audiences. For the first time, we have a programme of screenings for younger audiences; we are also taking the festival out of its regular ten day slot and locations to work with different organisations and communities, such as Elefest and Inspire.
This year we have also expanded our Cultural events and activities: while master classes, lectures, and Q&As with invited directors and special guests continue to provide the backbone of our cultural strand, we offer an insight into the Cuban music video industry and an appreciation of still images. A new section, entitled Local Talent, opens the door for Latin Americans residing in the UK to exhibit their work in the festival.
The festival is run entirely by unpaid volunteers, who believe in the cultural value of cinema and in the creativity, originality and scope of Latin American film. It is only through the energy, enthusiasm and commitment of both past and present volunteers and supporters, that the festival has grown to become a strong and valued regular addition to London’s diverse cultural and artistic scene. The festival is also made possible thanks to the generosity of our many sponsors and supporters.
A special and integral part of our festival is its support each year of an organisation which is working for change in Latin America; this year we are proud to be supporting the work of Progressio in helping women affected by HIV and Aids in the Dominican Republic.
On behalf of all the festival team, I warmly invite you to join us to explore and celebrate some of the best of contemporary Latin American cinema, and to experience the varied cultural events and activities, during the eleven days of the festival.
Neal Baker
Festival Director
On behalf of the entire Festival Team
The Discovering Latin America Film Festival is an initiative of the London based charity 'Discovering Latin America' (reg. charity no. 1106705). Discovering Latin America aims to promote Latin American culture in the UK, through fund-raising events such as film and music.