Spanish-Language Documentary Festival Promotes Cultural Ties
By Joe Vasquez
In an effort to promote cultural and academic ties amongst Texas State University and international students, The Center for the Study of Latino Media & Markets (CSLMM) hosts an annual international Spanish-language documentary festival known as Puntos de Vista. The festival is geared toward promoting the creativity and originality of documentaries written and produced by students in Mass Communication and Film Studies. The topics explored in the 15-20 minute documentaries cover relevant social issues on a global scale.
“This event provides an opportunity for students to gain an understanding of the differences and uniqueness of Latino cultures by working as a platform to develop new ideas for storytelling and cultural interaction,” said Dr. Sindy Chapa, Organizing Committee President and Associate Director of CSLMM at the School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Texas State University.
Students and faculty in colleges and universities across the United States, Latin America, the Caribbean and the Iberian Peninsula are invited to submit their documentaries for a chance to be screened at the event. The 15 best documentaries are exhibited during the festival and compete for monetary prizes of up to $2,000. Countries such as Chile, Colombia, México, Perú, Spain and the United States have participated throughout the years.
Students participating in the festival have the opportunity to attend a filmmaking workshop (Imágenes Que Hablan) led by leading cinematographers and film experts, as well as Lazos, a closing ceremony highlighting the art of Spanish-language documentaries, Spanish-language cultures and student talents. Lazos’ keynote speakers have included Robert Bard, President and CEO of Latina Style magazine and Eugenio del Bosque, Executive Director at Cine Las Americas.
“All students, including Latinos, need a variety of multicultural, social, political, and even spiritual events to enrich their lives," said Dr. Federico Subervi, Director of CSLMM and Professor at Texas State University.
“The Latino multicultural events fill part of that 'need' for Latino students, and also serve the diversity enrichment needs of many non-Latino students, ” said Subervi.
Puntos de Vista is in its third consecutive year of existence; if interested in attending or participating, please visit CSLMM’s site.
This video overviews the 3rd International Spanish-Language Documentary Festival Puntos de Vista, which took place on April 27, 2012 at Texas State University.