LOS ANGELES, CA – OCTOBER 31, 2024 – The Latino Film Institute (LFI) today announced the LFI Below-the-Line Fellowship, a program designed to support production designers, cinematographers, editors, and other essential craftspeople by equipping them with the skills, resources, and access needed for successful careers in the entertainment industry. By nurturing these visionary creatives, the program emphasizes technical excellence and artistry behind the camera.
Production design serves as the inaugural discipline, with the program developed and led by Academy Award-winning production designer Eugenio Caballero (Pan’s Labyrinth, Roma, Bardo). This groundbreaking initiative aims to address critical needs in below-the-line positions within the film industry while creating meaningful pathways for emerging Latino talent.
“The Latino Film Institute’s partnership with Eugenio Caballero represents a pivotal moment in our mission to empower the next generation of Latino filmmakers,” said Axel Caballero, CEO of Latino Film Institute. “Having an Academy Award-winning production designer lead this fellowship speaks to the transformative power of mentorship. Excellence in production design, as exemplified by Eugenio’s stunning work, will ultimately reshape the landscape of film production design with authentic Latino voices and visions.”
“Production design is not just about creating beautiful sets – it’s about building authentic worlds that enhance storytelling. This fellowship represents a crucial opportunity to nurture the next generation of Latino production designers while honoring our cultural perspectives and artistic traditions. Through mentorship and hands-on experience, we can create sustainable pathways for Latino talent in this essential craft,” said Eugenio Caballero, Academy Award-winning production designer.
The Below-the-Line Fellowship recognizes the critical role of production design in visual storytelling and world-building. This new fellowship offers a unique blend of hands-on experience, mentorship, and professional development opportunities, including workshops and a masterclass at the Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival (LALIFF). The inaugural program is supported by the CAA Foundation.
About Latino Film Institute (LFI)
The Latino Film Institute (LFI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to creating infrastructure for equity, diversity, and excellence for the Latino community in the entertainment industry. LFI houses five signature programs: The Youth Cinema Project (YCP), the Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival (LALIFF), LFI Scholar, LFI Spotlight Series, and LFI Fellowships.
For more information on LFI, visit www.latinofilm.org.
About LFI Fellowships
LFI Fellowships is a comprehensive suite of entertainment industry pipeline initiatives. Encompassing the Inclusion, Spark Animation, YCP Alumni, and Below-the-Line fellowships, as well as Works In Progress, LFI+150, and various grant opportunities, the program offers tailored mentorship, essential resources, and strategic industry connections to support Latino creatives at every career stage. By empowering high school students, emerging talents, and seasoned professionals alike, LFI Fellowships champion a new generation of creatives equipped to excel in a competitive landscape as they expand Latino representation across all facets of entertainment.
For more information on LFI Fellowships, visit www.latinofilm.org/lfi-fellowships/.
About Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival (LALIFF)
The Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival (LALIFF) is an international event dedicated to excellence in filmmaking. Through film, television, music, and education, LALIFF offers a vibrant stage to celebrate the richness and diversity of Latino cinema through distinct directorial voices and culturally significant narratives.
For more information and updates on LALIFF, visit www.laliff.org.
Follow LALIFF and LFI on social media:
- Instagram: @laliff_ and @lfi
- Twitter: @laliff
- Facebook: facebook.com/laliff
- LinkedIn: Latino Film Institute
Media Contact:
Loraine Valverde – Latino Film Institute
[email protected]