5Q's w/Henry Alberto "Ode to Abuela" Director

THURSDAY | BLOCK A | 4:00 |
Ode to Abuela (10 min) dir: Henry Alberto        

#1: Can you describe your movie and why somebody should see it in less than 280 characters?

Ode to Abuela is a tribute to my ancestors. As Latinx individuals we carry the identity of our Grandparents in our soul. I wanted to not just raise the question of mortality, but also the complexities of grief.

#2: What do you want the Borrego Springs Film Festival audience to know about your film that isn’t obvious from its title?

I decided to honor my Grandmother with the film, who is actually still with us. It was important for me to make a work celebrating her in life. We so often wait until those we love pass away before letting them know exactly what they mean to us.

#3: What is your movie making background?  Tell us about yourself.
I’m a self taught filmmaker and storyteller born and raised in Miami, FL. I currently reside in Los Angeles. After a few short films and a feature film, I am more impassioned to bring queer stories, specifically queer Latinx individuals to the forefront.

#4: What was the biggest lesson learned in getting your film made?
I continue to learn to allow myself to be specific with each vision of my films.

#5: What does the future hold for your film and you?
We have quite a few exciting opportunities on the horizon...meanwhile I continue to create and tell stories that are important to me and those I find necessary to exist in the world.