The Annapolis Film Festival will spotlight Latino storytelling on Saturday, March 28, with The Latin Experience Showcase, featuring American Pachuco: The Legend of Luis Valdez at Asbury.
The documentary, directed by David Alvarado, tells the story of Valdez, the playwright, filmmaker, and activist whose work helped reshape American culture and expand opportunities for Latino creators. The screening is scheduled for 12:30 p.m.
Story of a Cultural Trailblazer
American Pachuco traces Valdez’s path from migrant farmworker to influential artist. In the 1960s, his El Teatro Campesino performed on flatbed trucks and helped mobilize farmworkers in their push for the first union contract. His play Zoot Suit became the first Chicano production on Broadway, and he later reached a wider audience with La Bamba, a film widely recognized for its authentic portrayal of Mexican American life.
Now in its 60th year, El Teatro Campesino remains an important force for Latino and Latina artists.
Sundance Award Winner
The 92-minute documentary won the Audience Award for U.S. Documentary at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival. It is presented in English and Spanish with English subtitles.
The film was produced by David Alvarado, Lauren DeFilippo, Everett Katigbak, and Amanda Pollak. Zachary Fink served as cinematographer, Daniel Chávez Ontiveros as editor, and Kris Bowers as composer.
The Latin Experience Showcase is presented by the Brian & Patricia Giese Foundation. Tickets for the screening and festival passes are available through the Annapolis Film Festival.
