EDINBURG, Texas ( ValleyCentral ) — The South Texas International Film Festival (STXIFF) is happening right now in Edinburg.
The competitive event showcases the work of visionary filmmakers from the Rio Grande Valley and all over the world. Many make films to showcase while many others attend to get inspired.
Event organizers say there’s been a lot of growth as the festival goes into its second decade. Many say South Texas can become another major hub for filmmaking.
“I was born in Edcouch to a midwife in a kitchen table, and so from the lowest of lows to this place that I am now,” said the RGV’s own Hollywood star Valente Rodriguez. “So, if I could do it then you can do it and that might be the most important thing I tell them. If I could do it, then you can do it. It has been done, so go out there and do it again.”
Rodriguez is known for various roles such as Ernie Cardenas in the sitcom “George Lopez”, Frankie in “Blood In Blood Out” and Chuey in “Salsa”. He is taking part in the film festival this weekend as a speaker, mentor, and master of ceremonies.
He shared his story with those who are interested in pursuing a career in filmmaking.
First attendees like Kathyrn Klein, from McAllen were thrilled to be there. She attended with her friend Kadie De la Cruz who is into music and infusing it with film.
“I am just really excited to put everything I learned tonight into my future goals,” Klien said. “Whether that be making films or writing papers. I’m just hoping and by the creativity here is so alive, and I am really excited to see where all of this goes.”
Some attendees like Eliseo Gonzalez from Brownsville say there are a lot of people who want to do film locally and also see the area becoming a new hub like Austin or Atlanta.
“It might be spoken in the same word like hey let’s go down to Brownsville or let’s go down to Edinburg as they will have cool showings there. Instead of saying the new Austin, it is going to be its own thing,” Gonzalez said.
Some participated in contests like the 48-Hour Film Race in which contestants had to make a film in just two days. Gerardo Fuentes worked on the short film ‘Quicksilver’ and says filmmaking is a passion.
“I want to tell stories that inspire others, and that’s what matters for me as a filmmaker,” Fuentes said. “That’s what matters the most, telling stories that inspire.”
It’s not just the filmmakers and actors, Domenic Marte, an American bachata singer, is the headlining artist for the festival and also part of the organizing. He also offers advice for those wanting to be an artist.
“Just keep fighting. Keep fighting, keep working hard,” Marte said. “That’s going to pay off. I promise you, it’s just a matter of time. I always tell everyone, that if you want it, you work hard towards it, and you’re going to succeed. You know, there are always blessings behind hard work, so just keep going… and Edinburg, let’s go, man, you guys are doing it.”
The festival will continue until Saturday and is free and open to the public.
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